Banshee Buttons

Banshee Buttons are one of the darkest and most poisonous toadstools in our wizarding world. These malicious little mushrooms are also among the smallest, but don't let their diminutive size fool you. Banshee Buttons are commonly found throughout the wizarding world. The Banshee Button is even honoured each year with its very own festival. "Bring on the Buttons" is held each April 13th in the quaint town of Fungus, Scotland. These little beauties are the star of the show and tempting treats, magical musicals and sorcery shows are all dedicated to this treacherous little toadstool.

Appearance
They are petite in size but you may be able to recognise them by their blackish purple caps and dark green stems.

Cautions
Banshee Buttons are rated 6, being useful but considered dangerous. Harvesting your own Banshee Buttons should be relatively easy but do make sure to use gardening gloves when harvesting, as the spores of the toadstools have been known to cause side effects such as rashes and boils. Although they may be used in the same potions many times, they have the tendency to react differently each time.

Care Of
They thrive in cool wet conditions, but have also been known to show up in a few tropical locations as well. They are also the only variety know to grow on the sides of flesh eating trees. They are one of the most flourishing varieties of toadstools around. This is partially due to the fact that they have an extremely rapid growth rate. Virtually popping up out of the ground over night!

Uses
Many dark arts potions, elixirs and formulas have this toadstool as a main ingredient. It is also frequently used to help add an additional flavour kick to Spider Cider.

Biting Toadstools

Appearance
Similar in appearance to the Leaping Toadstool, the Biting Toadstool can be differentiated by the size of its cap- which is considerably bigger than that of the Leaping Toadstools, and also the presence of large sharp teeth. These teeth protrude beneath the cap, often lashing out at and catching on anything within its reach. Biting Toadstools have slightly slimmer stems, which are white in colour and share the same reddish brown cap as the Leaping Toadstool.

Cautions
Biting Toadstools are rated 5, useful but use with caution. These little toadstools are mildly omnivorous, they are able to feed on flesh. But do not be alarmed, whilst they might have a nibble they do not have particularly large appetites and so they are not fatal to humans.

Care Of
Biting Toadstools prefer cool, damp and dark conditions, but will grow in almost any condition, with the exception of frosty climates. Their natural habitat is dark, dense forests, but they are easily adapted into greenhouse environments. With a little sprinkle of dragon dung fertiliser and regular watering and you will no doubt have a healthy growth of these feisty fungi.

Uses
Biting Toadstool fangs may be used in various potions.

Blaze Again Buttons

We will caution you now to always be on your toes around this toadstool. It is unpredictable at even the best of times. It ranks among the most dangerous toadstools in the world and was once even banned from use by Ministry of Magic officials.

Appearance
This Fiery red toadstool may seem like nothing more than a gorgeous eye catching mushroom but upon closer inspection you will find a fierce fungus. Aptly named after its unusual hue this toadstool is easily identified by its rich flame like colourings.

Cautions
The Blaze Again Button is also the only toadstool which spontaneously bursts into flame.

Care Of
The Blaze Again Button are rated 6, useful but considered dangerous. They can be an extremely tricky toadstool to track down. It may take quite a bit of hiking and digging before finding your first cache. This shouldn't discourage you though. They are terribly exciting to find in the wild. They prefer to grow in small groups and thrive in environments provided by rotting logs near swampy areas. They tend to hide away from light as much as possible, so you may have to actually break apart rotting stumps in order to find these little treasures.

Uses
These toadstools are one of the most popular in the world and are renowned for their use in fireworks. They create unique colourful patterns and no two explosions are ever identical. Interest in this toadstool has increased dramatically since the Ministry took it off the Officially Restricted From Use list. Just remember to always handle this particular toadstool with care and DO NOT store in any closed container.

Bulgarian Lily

In the deep jungles of the Amazon, there are many wonders to behold. One such example is the Bulgarian Lily, erroneously named as it is neither native to Bulgaria nor even remotely a lily. Instead, an aspiring researcher discovered it in the 1700's. He was a Bulgarian by birth and had the misfortune to be born with a massive astigmatism in his eyes. Thus, this toadstool seemed to him like the lilies he had at home.

Appearance
The Bulgarian Lily is mainly black but has white streaks that run down its cap. The cap itself is split into six petal-like shapes, the tips of which secrete sticky juices that attract insects and animals alike. Inside these secretions are microscopic seedlings that eventually escape their prison and fall to the ground to sprout a new batch of Bulgarian Lilies. The stalk is quite long, an adaption suited to the rampant undergrowth of the Amazon rainforest.

Cautions
The Bulgarian Lily is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
This toadstool is most acclimated for wet climates and alkaline soil, it thrives in warm climates but does not do too well in sunlight, preferring to hide in the undergrowth of thick tropical rain forests.

Uses
What makes this toadstool so remarkable is that its sticky residue has the magical property to temporarily muffle the symptoms of ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder as the Muggles like to call it. Although this product is quite expensive, witches and wizards alike who are afflicted with ADHD are willing to fork over a pretty penny or two for the magical wonders of this toadstool. There are no known side effects.

One interesting note is that Henry the Hoodlum, in 1875, managed to create a facsimile of the Bulgarian Lily and sold the things in mass quantity to Muggle shops and pharmacies. The result was mind-boggling; his creation, to an effect, actually worked. In later investigation it was found that he had used the roots of the Bulgarian Lily, originally considered one of the more useless appendages of the toadstool, as the major ingredient in his concoction.

Camouflage Caps

Toadstools are commonly named after their appearance, and this toadstool is indeed a perfect match for its name.

Appearance
Camouflage Caps are petite toadstools speckled with green, cream and dark grey spots. No two camouflage patterns are ever identical, making this variety even more intriguing. These toadstools rarely reach more than a half an inch in height. The cap is no larger than a knut, and the stems are extremely thin and delicate.

Cautions
Camouflage Caps are rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
Camouflage Caps prefer to grow in hidden spaces. They are commonly found flourishing in dead tree stumps or in the rotting foliage on the forest floor. These often moist and dark places perfectly fit the Camouflage Cap's ideal growing environment. Take care when harvesting, as this type can easily be damaged by even the most gentle of touches.

Uses
This toadstool is known for its natural oils. It was once popular for witches and wizards to simply harvest the toadstool and rub the cap directly to their skin, hair or nails. They are now more commonly added as ingredients commonly used in enchanting shampoos and magical moisturizers. The toadstool itself will not feel oily until the skin is crushed, so if you are uncertain of the identity of a found toadstool, you can try crushing it in your palm. If it secretes and oily sour smelling liquid you have indeed found yourself a Camouflage Cap.

Caramel Creepers

It is found only in the caves of mountain Trolls and is likely to be spotted strolling about the ceiling of the cave in search of moisture. Yes, that is correct, strolling. These toadstools are mobile! They move at a glacial pace, but do manage to cover quite a bit of ground over the course of their lifetime. This toadstool is one of the most recently discovered, having only just been classified in the early 1960's. It is mentioned in older manuscripts, but only vaguely as most witches and wizards aren't willing to wander into the den of a giant mountain troll even in the name of scientific research.

Appearance
They do look incredibly like a charmed piece of caramel candy slowly creeping across the surface of the caves in which they thrive.

Cautions
Since this toadstool is fairly new to the research field, it is still considered unstable and should be used in potions on a limited basis.

Care Of
It is unlikely to find a sole specimen and tend to flourish when left to grow in large colonies. When one wants to obtain the precious properties this toadstool emits, they need harvest the oily residue found on the underside of the cap. When harvesting this golden liquid, simply use the tip of your wand and carefully coax the liquid into a glass vial. When sealed with bees wax, they liquid seems to become stable and preserved. It has been stored for 20 years with success.

Uses
The residue found on the underside of the Caramel Creeper’s cap can be used in a number of potions as a thickening agent, and is also favoured in unctions. It is also used to aid the ingestion of certain medications, coating them in the golden liquid helps them slide down the throat- this is particularly useful for administering medication to ill children or animals.

Christmas Carol

There is a toadstool, fairly unknown due to a circumstance that will be further explained, that hides away in a very specific crag of mountain in the Himalayas. It only grows during the winter months of the year and then stays alive just long enough to throw its seed to the ground directly near it, in the hopes that one day another toadstool will grow in its place. With this assurance, the toadstool promptly expires.

Appearance
The Christmas Carol is still revered by some Himalayan cultures as a gift from an angel. It has a special burning capacity, enabling fires to survive up to 3 days without additional fuel. The secret lies in its complex anatomy. It may grow up to 6 inches in height and may reach a robust 10 inches in diameter. It sports a very unusual colour combination. The stalk is coloured a bright fire engine red, complemented by stripes of varying thickness in bright mint green. It is thought that these two colours are used to ward off potential dangers such as the common mountain lion or the rarer Yeti.

Cautions
The Christmas Carol is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
This toadstool, despite common sense, does not need as much nutrients as other toadstools of similar size and shape. This is due to the fact that most of its stalk is just air. The inflated volume of the toadstool allows for greater heat carrying capacity and acts as a shield against the harsh weather of the mountains. Its skin is made of a sticky leather-like material that resembles wax. It is this wax that can keep a fire burning for days on end and is an additional barrier against the cold. It only blooms during the week of the birth of Christ.

Uses
Often used in the manufacturing of wizarding sweets and beverages. The price range of such a toadstool varies, but its cost is usually between 10 galleons a pound to a whopping 100 galleons a pound for a certain gourmet variety. The taste is said to very minty, like peppermint candy, and leaves a sweet aftertaste in the mouth.

Cleopatra’s Caps

These delicate little toadstools are among the smallest, but don't let their diminutive size fool you. They are quite potent and are very sought after.

Appearance
The toadstool itself measures in at around 3 inches tall at the largest and the cap at about 2 inches in diameter. They have brilliant white stems and cream coloured caps covered with what look like brush strokes of an inky powdery blue. It is believed these toadstools were named after the eye shadow Queen Cleopatra of Egypt favoured. No two caps have ever been found with identical markings which just add to the charm of this little fungi.

Cautions
Cleopatra’s Caps are rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
This toadstool prefers mild but dark environments. They will not tolerate extreme heat or cold, so be sure to regulate your thermostat in your greenhouse should you decided to try your hand at growing these royal little wonders. Remember to always start your colony with more than one specimen. They do not like to be alone and you will have a hard time keeping a lonely toadstool of this variety surviving for long.

Uses
They have been harvested for centuries for use in love potions, beautification charms and of course magical makeup products. It is believed the blue found on the caps can act as an enchanting agent when worn by a witch.

Divining Dumpleworth

Its usage goes far back into the medieval ages, where witches and warlocks alike used this toadstool for its magical property of increasing happiness and energy levels in the eater. There was also this strange side effect of inducing the consumer to fits of hysteria, where he or she would babble on about the a terrible and dark future event to come…and the others were astounded to find that all the supposed nonsense from those afflicted came true.

These aptly named Divining Dumpleworths were, in fact, discovered by a rather decrepit old warlock by the name of Dumpleworth Jones. An outcast of his day, Jones would spend hours upon hours in his study, dissecting various beasts and critters he’d find in the wilderness. These practices, of course, were extremely looked down upon and so his outings into the nearby forests became more infrequent as the years went on. However, on a rare trip outside his dingy study, he stumbled upon these toadstools.

Appearance
Besides the green and blue striped marking on the top, this toadstool is also identified by its characteristic swirl shaped pattern on the underside of the cap. The shininess of the stalk is due to the secretions of oil from the toadstool, making it extremely difficult to harvest.

Cautions
Divining Dumpleworths are rated 7, somewhat useful but are considered to be highly dangerous. They have not been widely used for medicinal purposes, as the bouts of ensuing hysteria might be grounds for suing.

Care Of
The correct method of harvesting is to grasp the top of the cap with metal tongs and wrench it off its platform. One does not have to worry about harming the toadstool, as these are extremely hardy and prefer to be ripped off a surface rather than lose a cap.

Uses
These toadstools are used in energy drinks and teas. However, the Divining Dumpleworths are in fact a rare breed of toadstools and the cost of an individual species soars at around two hundred to three hundred galleons.

Elvin Army

These tiny little toadstools pack themselves together in massive groups. The closer they are to one another, the more they seem to flourish. It can be found throughout the world, and will sometimes be referred to as The Elvin Army, when growing in huge clusters. This toadstool is known by several different names, the Enamelled Elf, the Eva, and of course the Elvin Army.

Appearance
This toadstool derives its name from the shape of its cap. This cap has a rounded top and two points on each side. When viewed from a distance the toadstools look like tiny elves heads massed together. It can be easily recognized by its distinctive cap and the brilliant colours of coral, turquoise and plum that decorate the cap and stem. At times it may appear these caps have been hand painted, which is why some witches once believed they were enamelled by Mother Nature herself.

Cautions
Though these little toadstools are incredibly useful, they are poisonous and with the right quantity can be lethal. Elvin Army toadstools are rated 5, useful but use with caution.

Care Of
This Toadstool grows in a variety of temperatures and is fairly easy to grow in greenhouses. It should be on the top of any beginners growing list, as it matures pretty quickly and can be harvested throughout the year.

Uses
These toadstools have been used in a variety of potions for years, but have recently gained popularity once more. It seems when brewed at just the right temperature these toadstools can add a touch of super strength, enabling a witch or wizard to make stronger, longer lasting potions.

Flaming Buffalo Toadstool

Appearance
An unlikely threat, this toadstool is pin-shaped in size. Equipped with a fail-proof means for camouflage, the Flaming Buffalo Toadstool is indeed practically invisible. When visible, as it can be found during the night, the cap is a pale tan to a dark brown in colour depending upon drought conditions. The stalk is extremely thin but very short; its roots are minuscule and reside at the surface. However it has this unique property to instantly retract these roots and then fall over. This curious behaviour can be explained by the proceeding events. Once it has fallen over, the toadstool bursts into an instantaneous flame fuelled by various chemical reactions within the stalk and the cap.

Cautions
During the summer seasons, the Flaming Buffalo Toadstool is one of the main reasons why the prairies catch on fire. Muggles explain away this phenomenon by the so-called heat and susceptibility of the native plants but in truth it is this small pin of a toadstool responsible for annual wildfire. The flaming Buffalo Toadstool is rated 2, somewhat interesting. They pose no immediate danger and have no known useful properties.

Care Of
The Flaming Buffalo Toadstool reproduces each year during these burning seasons. Millions of microscopic spores are thrown into the air and are flame resistant, allowing them to float unharmed for hours. These spores are extremely attracted to buffalo fur and, if given a choice, would manipulate itself towards a poor buffalo. These hairy beasts then roam into the plains, the ideal environment for this toadstool. Herbologists have not been successful in cultivating these toadstools outside of their natural environment.

Uses
As of now, there is no market value for these toadstools, seeing as they are nearly impossible to find and even more difficult to cultivate once taken out of their biomes.

Fuzzigzaged Fungus

The Fuzzigzaged Fungus is a surprisingly common toadstool. It is found all over in Europe and North America. It was and still is used for driving out Jarvey infestations in magical gardens, since they hate its fruity scent. Fuzzigzaged Fungus is not poisonous, but it is not recommended that one eat some, as it is reputed to have a remarkably bitter taste.

Appearance
Fuzzigzaged fungus gets its name from its zigzagged pattern. Its texture alternates from smooth to fuzzy. The smooth part is always white. However, the fuzzy stripes change from light blue to dark green as the plant matures. This process takes about 7 years to complete, and since they are hardy plants, this toadstool almost always reaches full growth. At this point, the fungus has grown from a flat splotch to a perfectly cylindrical pillar about a foot tall. Once it has reached full growth, the plant can live for up to 20 more years.

Cautions
Fuzzigzaged Fungi are rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
Fuzzigzaged fungus can be grown either indoors or out. Fuzzigzagged fungus can be bought in seed form, partially matured, or fully grown from most magical arbores. It is recommended that one buys a seed or partially matured plant. The seeds are easy to cultivate, and you are guaranteed the full life of a plant. If you buy a partially-grown toadstool, it is easy to see what stage of growth it is at, so you make sure you are getting the best deal for your money. Buying a full grown plant is not recommended. A freshly matured plant and a one-day-away-from-twenty plant will look the same, and you could end up paying for a plant that will only last one day.

Uses
They are known for their uses indoors as well as out. Outside, it keeps the Jarveys away, and two mature plants are often found on either side of a doorway as an attractive yet functional decoration. Inside, plants are often kept near bathrooms, so their fruit-like scent can disguise other odours.

Heliotropic Bergomot

The Galapagos Islands harbours a great deal of rare breeds of animals and so it is not surprise that there are rare breeds of toadstool as well. Originating in the coral reef that surrounds one of these islands, an almost translucent toadstool grows upon plankton and other small creatures. It is very sneaky and depends on stealth, as well as a healthy dose of luck, to capture its prey. This toadstool, once discovered, was dubbed the Heliotropic Bergomot and promptly forgotten.

Appearance
A pearly-white cap covers a long translucent stem. The stem is very flexible, allowing for this toadstool to move freely with the sea currents. Under the cap, there are several small tentacles that are used to capture prey that swim into its reach.

Cautions
The Heliptropic Bergomot is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities... unless you’re plankton.

Care Of
These prey consist of plankton, diadems, and the elusive magical sea tick. Upon consuming a large meal, the Heliotropic Bergomot will enter a hibernation phase and, when “awoken” will release millions of tiny spores. These spores will burrow into living flesh and lie dormant until certain variations in the seawater, whether temperature or pressure, signal for it to start growing. Its host will then experience a strange tickling sensation as the spore falls out of its body.

Uses
Only recently has the worth of this previously unknown toadstool grown exponentially, for it was also found that the Heliotropic Bergomot has unparalleled regenerative properties on the cells found in the brain and in the spinal cord. However, in 2002 scientists began to send teams to harvest them in mass quantities. Apparently the natives already knew about the curative properties of the Heliotropic Bergomot and wanted to protect the ‘secret’. Well, the secret is out and the survival of a rare species is at stake.

Holey Hamlet

This toadstool is among the most poisonous and it comes with a few surprises inside! It isn't named after the tale from famous muggle writer Shakespeare, no this fungi is home to a worm called the Wisest Wiggler. A deep dark burgundy coloured worm that is known to possess temporary wisdom enhancement if consumed by wizards and witches.

Appearance
Most Holey Hamlets play host to at least ten of these tiny worms. These guests eat tunnels throughout the stem and cap. Creating the holey appearance this toadstool is famous for. The toadstool itself can reach heights of 2 feet tall and up to two feet wide.

Cautions
The Holey Hamlet is rated 8, somewhat useful but could kill you if you’re not careful. As previously mentioned this toadstool is incredibly poisonous and no part of it should ever be ingested. Even when diluted this toadstool can be fatal.

Care Of
If you try to grow them in greenhouses, make sure to completely block out all light and keep the soil moist. They seem to thrive in environments which mimic their natural environment, or what are commonly referred to as black forests. This toadstool is known to grow only in the darkest parts of the forest. They prefer to stick close to enchanted forests, but have been known to migrate into muggle forests if enchanted areas become too dry.

Uses
This toadstool is quite popular and sought after by companies that develop memory potions, intelligence powders and of course Focusing Draughts. Not for the toadstool itself, but rather for the company of the toadstool. Yes, that is correct, The Wisest Wiggler. The toadstool itself is of no use in potions, but the worms are quite valuable and useful. Indeed one cannot survive without the other and so the toadstool is equally valuable to the knowing witches and wizards who know what to look for.

Leaping Toadstools

Originally native to Great Britain, these feisty little toadstools can now be found worldwide.

Appearance
The average Leaping Toadstool may grow between three and four inches in height. They are often noticed for their robust and rounded stem, which is necessary for them to keep their balance whilst leaping. Don’t be fooled, while they are one of the smaller varieties of toadstools they do pack a punch if you happen to be too close to it when it decides to go leaping. The cap is a vibrant shade of reddish brown and is disproportionate to the stem of the toadstool- the stem being larger.

Cautions
Leaping Toadstools are rated 2, somewhat interesting.

Care Of
First and foremost it is important when growing Leaping Toadstools to provide them with enough space to move about. These feisty toadstools do not appreciate cramped spaces. They grow best when they are provided with ample room, ample sunlight and moisture. And believe me if it’s not provided for them then they will go in search of it themselves. They acquire all their nutrients from decaying foliage and rotting tree stumps, but they do well with an occasional sprinkling of dragon dung fertiliser- if you can catch them. Leaping Toadstools are happy to grow in and amongst other plants whether they are in greenhouses, in gardens or in forests.

Uses
Leaping Toadstool juice is sometimes used in energy drinks, providing witches and wizards the energy they require to leap through their day.

Mermaids Tail

Said to be one of the more beautiful type of toadstool in existence, the Mermaid’s Tail lives up to its legend. Myth and rumour has it that there was a lovely merprincess who lived under the sea in a golden palace that filled the sea with light. Every day a band of merpirates would sail by in a decrepit algae ridden seven-mast ship and then her merpeople would hide in their coral houses in fear. But she alone would rejoice, as her lover, the most handsome of the lot, would stop and give her the trophies of his latest conquests. One day he gave her a beautiful sea flower to represent their love. But unfortunately, he perished in a fight later that very day. The princess, wrought with grief, went to a sorceress to find a way to heal her pain. However, the sorceress had been secretly jealous of the princess’s love and thus took advantage of this opportunity, transforming the princess into a toadstool. Yet the princess’s beauty remained immortalized and to this day, marine biologists are amazed at the beauty of such a thing.

Appearance
The Mermaid’s Tail is an aquamarine blue. It has an unusually long stalk ribbed with opaque stripes that are able to reflect underwater light. The fringes of its cap are nearly translucent and if one looks closely, one would be able to see light blue coloured filaments within. The cap itself is disproportionately large. Many small sea creatures have been known to find shelter underneath the Mermaid Tail’s cap.

Cautions
Mermaids Tail is rated 2, somewhat interesting.

Care Of
This toadstool grows wherever the sunlight hits the sand, preferable near coral and other sources of marine life.

Uses
There is no official medicinal use of this toadstool. There has been a theory that it has the magical property of alleviating broken hearts. This has yet to be proven. In coastal cultures, Muggles unknowing consume thousands of pounds of this toadstool as part of their normal diet. The taste is slightly salty with a hint of a sweet papaya aftertaste. Relatively easy to come by, the price of the Mermaid’s Tail is extremely affordable.

Needlefig Nail

It gets its strange name from the wizard that created this particular toadstool. That wizard was the great Artemis Needlefig. At least, he claims to have created it. Many in our Wizarding community doubt this to be true, and many assume he merely discovered this toadstool, and then tried to make others believe he created it. Artemis was a great Herbologist in the fifteenth century, but there is little or no evidence proving his claims.

Appearance
This stylish toadstool grows to a height between five to eight inches tall. They are extremely thin mushrooms with little or no cap. They are a dark rusty brown colour and really do mimic the resemblance of a rusty nail.

Cautions
The Needlefig Nail is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
They grow in tightly packed colonies and can most often be found growing up the north side of enormous trees. These toadstools flourish in the cool shady spaces provided by the larger varieties of trees in the forest. They have been known to be found growing on some buildings, but seem to prefer staying closer to wooded areas.

Uses
Many wizards have used these toadstools to regain their bearings when lost in the woods. They are an easy and effective way to point yourself north again, should you become confused in the forest. The Needlefig Nail is commonly used in potions for increasing strength. A number of healing potions use it as an ingredient to aid wellness and recently this toadstool has also been making the rounds on the quidditch field. The teams' leading trainers have begun to recognise its effectiveness in potions, which can minimize pain in minor injuries.

Peppermint Striped Parasol

It is also commonly known as the pixie parasol. Pixies are often found resting on or under these strange umbrella shaped wonders. They are the perfect size for pixies to perch upon, but they also have a welcoming and invigorating aroma of peppermint which the pixies find enchanting. It is thought that this variety of Toadstools get some of their magical properties from the pixies themselves.

Appearance
One of the easiest of all toadstools to identify, it is also becoming increasingly rare due to over harvesting. Easily recognized by its distinctive red and white umbrella striped body, black stem and fragrant peppermint aroma.

Cautions
Peppermint Striped Parasol’s are rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities. Although any witch or wizard who desires to harvest one of the Peppermint Striped Parasols, will have to first distract or stun the pixies. This may be more difficult than you think as the pixies consider themselves the caretakers of these toadstools.

Care Of
This variety will only be found growing in enchanted forests. Usually resting in the shade of giant elms, or Monkey-tail trees. They thrive in moist and soil rich areas. Recent Ministry attempts to grow these delicate fungi in greenhouses has ended in constant failure. Although, they have found some success when inviting the pixies to live in the greenhouses amongst the toadstools. The trick there is to convince the pixies that we are trying to help the toadstools, rather than tricking them.

Uses
The Peppermint Striped Parasol is one of the main ingredients in "Magic Minty Melts" the infamous enchanting love candy. As demand for these candies has sky rocketed, the prices paid for the toadstools themselves have gone through the roof, making these one of the most sought after toadstools around. If a solution to the growing issue doesn't arise soon, these toadstools may be placed on the magically endangered list. A sad fate for such a truly beautiful toadstool.

Pixie Platters

Among the sweetest looking toadstools is the Pixie Platter, this variety is also known as the "Pancake Toadstool" and the "Lazy Mans Perch".

Appearance
This toadstool is aptly named for its large plate shaped appearance. Certain toadstools have been known to grow up to a whopping 15 inches in diameter, though more commonly they reach an average diameter of around 10 inches. Being indiscreetly disc shaped makes them among the easiest to locate on the forest floor. The toadstool has a golden brown appearance which clearly resembles a delicious pancake fresh off the griddle.

Cautions
However sweet this toadstool may appear it is no sugary salad additive. The Pixie Platter is rated 4, it is useful but might have some unpleasant side effects. Its poisonous spores have been known to cause respiratory defects and prolonged illness, with the occasional bout of gangrene.

Care Of
Pixie Platters are known to grow only in the northern hemispheres. Preferring to grow in cool and somewhat drier regions, perhaps they do not like the extra rain collecting on their massive platforms. This is one variety that actually grows quite readily in greenhouses. If you are looking for a toadstool to take on as a gardening project, this would be the one, as long as you can maintain a cool and dry environment.

Uses
It is one of the best ingredients available for use in Binding spells and potions. New research now shows it can prove to be effective in slowing the signs of aging on the skin. Many magical Apothecaries are now stocking these toadstools on a regular basis. Therefore it is currently enjoying a sudden surge in its popularity with witches and their home care remedies. Remember when using any toadstool, be sure to dilute the dose when using them in any topical or digestive spell or potion.

Plum Pharaoh

This is one of the easiest varieties to grow, and so it makes an excellent starting point for any fledgling fungi student.

Appearance
They are easy to recognize with their distinct plum colouring and navy blue stems. You may have to push a few apart in order to catch a glimpse of the stems, since they prefer to grow in tightly knit bunches. You'll want to be sure they are not purple poppers which are a slightly darker colour and have a rusty salmon coloured stem.

Cautions
Plum Pharaohs are rated 4, useful but might have some unpleasant side effects. It should be noted that we highly recommend wearing gloves while handling these toadstools. The spores give off some kind of toxin which will make anyone who handles this specimen incredibly paranoid.

Care Of
Plum Pharaohs thrive in damp cool environments, but are quite hardy and can maintain themselves in drier and milder climates, though they would prefer to be watered more than occasionally.

Uses
This variety was originally developed for use in dyes for royalty. Some specimens are still used for such purposes, but they have also begun to be used more commonly in magical makeup products. The deep plum colour is quite popular as a lip colour among younger witches. Older potion books have this ingredient listed in potions for becoming the "king of your castle". Apparently a side effect of consuming them is becoming compliant, so if you were to serve a beverage spiked with this potion to your family, they would go out of their way to please you! These recipes soon became "lost" as many were afraid of the potions being used against themselves in their own households. So it is rare to actually see a family potion book with those potion recipes still intact, but you can find them occasionally in antique stores or ancient libraries.

Powdered Princess

This toadstool derives its name from the shape of its cap and a special hidden surprise waiting inside.

Appearance
The Powdered Princess is one of the largest types of toadstools. It can grow up to two feet tall and as wide as three feet around. This is one of the more recognizable toadstools as the shape of the cap is actually a crown. Yes, that is right, it is shaped just like a crown a king, queen or even a "princess" might wear.

Cautions
Powdered Princess is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
Harvesting the Powdered Princess might be a bit more work than you expect. The stems can get quite tough especially on the larger sized toadstools. Just be sure to bring your wand or another set of hands to help you pry this treasure from the earth. This toadstool is usually found growing in either shades of pale pink or lavender. Though it is becoming rare to find these unless they are grown in specialty greenhouses, or hidden away in the deepest parts of enchanted forests. They favour dark damp though relatively warm conditions.

Uses
The other half of the name is from the powder which is hidden inside the toadstool. To harvest this extremely useful powder you have to gently remove the cap from the stem and there between the two layers will be the very precious powder. This powder can be used in many ways, but the most popular usage is for fabric dyes. This powder creates some of the most brilliant shades of purple and pinks in the world. The dye also holds a bit of protective energy. Many wizarding robes and quidditch robes are made with dyes using this very powder

Russian Ragtag

In the cold, unforgiving Northern terrain of the Asian continent there lies, dormant in the snow, a type of fungi so rare and delectable that Muggles and magical folk alike have come into deadly conflict ever since its discovery in the late tenth century. This delicacy, dubbed the Russian Ragtag, is a curious piece of work. It is extremely hard to find and can be sold into certain hands for over one thousand galleons a pound. There have been no dangerous side effects reported and it remains one of the most prized fungi in history.

Appearance
Its narrow stalk, usually ranging from five to seven inches long, and the characteristic teal stripes that make this fungus look like the Muggle candy cane, can identify the Russian Ragtag. The fungus is mostly pure white in colour and sports a narrow, thimble-sized cap. The colour of the cap matches the fungus’s surroundings, giving it a natural camouflage to hide it from magical animals like the Herbridius Hedgehog.

Cautions
Russian Ragtag is rated 4, useful but may have some unpleasant side effects. Because of the nature of this toadstool it should be used very sparingly.

Care Of
The Russian Ragtags roots give this fungus its name. Its roots spread in a random pattern in a twenty-foot wide circle; the entirety of its root system can be graphed into a triangle shaped pattern. But what makes this fungus truly unique is that the roots have this ripped quality to them that causes them to expand in moisture and harden during drought. The roots are hidden deep underground and feed the toadstool its nutrients from the energy of the Earth.

Uses
The Russian Ragtag is known for its taste, and is used in high end cuisine. Though it also has a more practical use, the Russian Ragtag is known to create a very powerful and elusive colour changing potion. Like the Shimmer Shroom and the Disillusionment Charm the Russian Ragtag has the ability to provide those who ingest it with the ability to blend in with their environment, like a chameleon. In the late sixteenth century a wizard whom we now know as Godfrey the Gregarious used too much of this potent toadstool in his colour changing potion. As a result of this blunder, Godfrey went unseen for no less than five years, camouflaged with his surroundings. Despite this, Godfrey decided to test the effects of the Russian Ragtag a second time, vanishing from sight for a further four years.

Scalloped Shingle

Appearance
The Scalloped Shingle grows in large clusters and looks like segments of a roof stuck to the sides of rotting trees. These toadstool lack the conventional stems and grow straight from the tip of the shingle to the surface they attach themselves to. These shingles are usually found in shades of beige or creamy white. They grow in large clusters and usually remain in the same areas for long periods of time, so when you find a group, you should be able to use that area for many harvests.

Cautions
Scalloped Shingles are rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
Scalloped Shingles are rarely found growing on the forest floor. They prefer to grow on rotting trees, up the sides of living trees or even occasionally on older fence posts. This may be because trees offer a different source of nutrients than dirt or ground cover would. These toadstools prefer darker wet forests. They grow abundantly in the Black Forest region of Germany and can be quite readily found growing throughout parts of Ireland and Scotland. There has been some limited success when grown in greenhouses set up as dark versions of rain forests. Although humidity doesn't seem to agree with these toadstools, so keep a close eye on the thermometer. Anything over 18 degrees Celsius, will greatly impede their growth capabilities.

Uses
Scalloped Shingles are widely used to make enchanted glues. Glue made from these toadstools is especially known for its incredibly long lasting durability. Using the glue to bind precious and valued books has been in practice for centuries.

Scrimgeour Fiend

Now before you say anything, the unfortunate name this toadstool was given is in no way a reference to the late Prime Minister of the Ministry of Magic. In fact, the origins of this toadstool’s name are traced back to Romanian and Transylvanian regions, whereupon the translation was modified until it ended up in European hands. Thus the Scrimgeour Fiend was found. Its native peoples protect the Scrimgeour Fiend quite vigorously. It was by an unfortunate trade agreement that the Transylvanians were forced to hand over the toadstool for monetary trinkets.

Appearance
It is a light lilac in colour with a scarlet red stalk to warn potential predators. It is short and stout with a large cap, sometimes reaching twenty inches in circumference. From afar, this toadstool is easily identifiable but of course, the Romanian and Transylvanian woodlands do not offer much danger to this creature. Yes, creature I say.

Cautions
The Scrimgeour Fiend is rated 9, possessing no useful qualities and is dangerous to be in proximity with. It has been known to be fatal, so constant vigilance in the presence of these fungi is a must.

Care Of
The Scrimgeour Fiend is found usually in a bright sunny spot, growing off the exposed roots of dead trees. The Scrimgeour Fiend is unique in the way in which it breeds. First it lies in wait under the cover of darkness for some warm-blooded animal to stumble into it. Then it flashes a bright red colour. Entranced, the animal will get closer to it and that’s when the Fiend makes it attack. Right then and there it releases a spray of poisonous gas, which devours the animal right down to the bone. The slush is then absorbed by the roots of the toadstool, which then uses the energy to create egg like structures under its cap. The eggs grow and then, when they reach maturity, explode, releasing thousands of tiny spores.

Fiendish indeed. Due to the inherent danger of approaching this toadstool, it is usually left alone by the inhabitants. Once the Europeans realized the deadly trap, a man by the name of Ron Scrimgeour took upon himself the duty of eradicating every single “little fiend” he could find in Europe.

Uses
The Scrimgeour Fiend is known to have been used for protection of land and property, making it dangerous for trespassers and thieves. Aside from this there are no known uses of the feisty fungus.

Silver Sickles

It is commonly referred to as the silver spike, but its actual name is the Silver Sickle.

Appearance
Named for its crescent shaped cap (resembling the agricultural tool known as the sickle), the cap also hides a bit of a surprise, it is razor sharp. Ranging from dull oxidized silver tones to glistening silver mimicking the finest sterling silver found.

Cautions
The Silver Sickle is rated 5, useful but use with caution. This toadstool uses this razor sharp cap to protect itself from fungi hungry predators. Remember when using this toadstool, that once the cap is removed from the stem it should be used within 13 hours, or the cap will become unstable and could result in a dangerous explosion.

Care Of
The Silver Sickle usually prefers to grow in open areas like meadows, along the banks of rivers or on the edges of rivers and lakes. You will also commonly find them near low ground covering brush which may offer a bit of shade, and a bit of a break from the elements. These toadstools do not grow well in severely cold climates or overly wet conditions. Even controlled greenhouse growth studies in locations like England and Scotland have not ended in outstanding populations. It seems these toadstools are affected by the outdoor weather, even when grown indoors.

The best way to harvest Silver Sickles is to use a simple field sickle with a basket placed below the toadstool. Lop off the cap and it should fall easily into your awaiting basket. The caps are the portion you'll want, as the stems are not good for much except mulch for your garden gnomes.

Uses
When diluted the toadstools make an excellent magical growth regulator, working to either increase or decrease your desired item to the size you calculate your potions for.

Shaggy Sapphire

It may sound like a strange jewel, and in a way, that is exactly what it is! This treasure however, is for stashing away in your potions cupboard, and not to be worn as a pendant. Though I am sure there are wizards out there that do. The Shaggy Sapphire is only known to grow in one part of the world. Australia. These toadstools thrive in the land "down under".

Appearance
The Shaggy Sapphire is a very striking shade of blue and its cap is entirely covered with hair like fibres. These fibres trap moisture and nutrients for these enchanting little wonders. This toadstool grows to between 7 to 8 inches tall. They are somewhat easy to spot if walking in open fields.

Cautions
The Shaggy Sapphire is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities. Though having said that the Shaggy Sapphire is home to the interesting insect known as the Billywig. That means you should take extra care when harvesting Shaggy Sapphires, as Billywigs are known to cause the victims of their stings to hover uncontrollably. These little insects can usually be found nesting upside down under the cap.

Care Of
Unlike most varieties of toadstool, the Shaggy Sapphire is unique in that it does not require a lot of moisture to grow. Even in the warmest and driest of climates and conditions, these little gems will practically blossom. However they do benefit with a light water from time to time.

Uses
The Shaggy Sapphire is used in a variety of potions, elixirs and draughts. This toadstool is notably useful in reversing the effects of dark magic. As such the demand for this particular toadstool is gaining in popularity.

Talking Toadstools

This talented little toadstool has the uncanny ability to mimic human sounds. But don’t expect to have a conversation with one, they are usually limited to short phrases.

Appearance
Talking Toadstools, unlike other toadstool varieties, grow independently rather than in clusters. It is rare to find more than five of these charming toadstools within a five metre radius. The reason for this is still unknown to herbologists, but the suspicion is that they don’t like the sound of each others voices. Averaging a height of up to ten centimetres these little toadstools emit a high, whinny sound and in no way sound anything like a human... unless you happen to be whinny. With their white stems and pale pink caps, they make a great addition to anybodies front yard. They’re also a childrens favourite!

Cautions
Talking Toadstools are rated 2, somewhat interesting. Though having said that, if you find yourself in their presence for too long, and they’re in a particularly talkative mood, then you can expect slight mental fatigue and mild cases of hysteria.

Care Of
Talking Toadstools thrive in sunlight, so make sure that they are out in the open or in a part of a greenhouse where they receive ample sunlight. Watering everyday is required otherwise they tend to become dehydrated rather quickly. On the off chance you do happen to forget to water your Talking Toadstool and it has become wrinkly and unwell, a generous watering and a few drops of Mooncalf Solution should restore its health.

Uses
Talking Toadstools are often used fresh in sound-transfiguring potions.

Tangled Urchin

Legend says this toadstool was banished from the sea by King Triton himself after he had a nasty accident and found himself face down in a large cluster of Tangled Urchins. We of course don't have any evidence of this, but you will notice that there is sea salt found in the nooks of the arms on this toadstool.

Appearance
The Tangled Urchin grows in clusters and can in fact completely block forest paths. This particularly nasty toadstool resembles a small spiky sea urchin. With twisted sharpened arms that stick out in all directions. This toadstool usually is found in shades of midnight blue. There have been a few specimens found that were completely white, but research shows they are only found once every couple hundred years.

Cautions
The Tangled Urchin is rated 5, useful but use with caution. Its thorn like arms are incredibly sharp and will slice right through your skin, so you'll want to wear either leather gardening gloves or simple charms when trying to harvest these ferocious fungi.

Care Of
Generally found in thick forest undergrowth, the Tangled Urchin prefers dark and damp conditions. Though occasionally they can be found in open fields or paddocks, they grow particularly well with the aid of a little Abraxan dung.

Uses
The Tangled Urchin is not the easiest toadstool to harvest, but you may be surprised at how many uses are out there for this very distinctive toadstool. The salt alone harvested from the toadstools is incredibly valuable. The salt is highly sought after for use as a cooking salt, by some of the most renowned chefs in the world. Of course getting large quantities of the salt is nearly impossible, but well worth your efforts. A little of this particular salt does go a long way. The body of the toadstool itself is used in many energy elixirs and protection potions.

Teardrop Toadstool

One of the most recognizable varieties of toadstools is the Teardrop Toadstool. The legend of the Teardrop Toadstool says that a young witch was once denied marriage to an enchanted prince, instead she was told she would marry a powerful and evil warlock. She wrote a love letter to her prince telling him to find her hidden in the forest. It is said she then ran away to the forest and turned herself into a toadstool. The tears that run down the stem are hers that she sheds for her lost love who has yet to find her.

Appearances
This little gem grows to between 4-7 inches tall and has a brilliant flaming orange colouring. Tiny black tear shaped spots decorate the thin little stem.

Cautions
The Teardrop Toadstool is rated 5, useful but use with caution. While they seem sweet and even a tad bit sad, they are actually quite dangerous. These are among the most poisonous of toadstools, so take care when handling, and make sure to keep track of them once you harvest them.

Care Of
These toadstools are known to grow in a number of different climates, but seem to prefer staying relatively close to magical energies. As such they can be found in most enchanted forests and magical marshes. Some of these toadstools have been found in muggle areas, but they have an internal cloaking shield that allows only those with magical abilities to see them.

Uses
Teardrop Toadstools are often used as replacement ingredients for both phoenix tears and mermaid scales. For some mysterious reason they share many of the same qualities and magical reactions. This almost guarantees this toadstools place at the head of the most wanted toadstool list, as both mermaid scale and phoenix tears are incredibly expensive and unbelievably rare.

Tingling Tambourines

It is officially named the Tingling Tambourine, but is also know in certain parts of the world as the Jingle Bell (aptly named for its jingly sound and its umbrella shaped cap). Most wizards know the toadstool by either name, though it is becoming scarce in some areas.

Appearance
The Tingling Tambourine is named specifically for its jingly pore pockets which dangle below the toadstools cap. These 1/8 of inch long pockets contain hardened spores which the toadstool will release twice yearly in order to spread its seeds. Tingling Tambourines are usually between 7 to 10 inches tall with thin stems and of course the trademark pockets which hang below the cap. Colours can range from brilliant peach to the gaudiest green. It is typical to find this toadstool in just about any shade of the rainbow, so the best way to identify this toadstool is by its spore pockets or the tingling sensation you will feel when you have touched one.

Cautions
The Tingling Tambourine is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities. Though, this toadstool's spores contain some magical ingredient which will cause numbness and tingling in anything that touches it. This is probably a defence mechanism it uses to scare off garden gnomes.

Care Of
These toadstools are becoming increasingly rare and they seem to thrive in greenhouse conditions as long as you can keep it free from burrowing beetles. These beetles are known to destroy this toadstool's habitat and seem to feed upon the spore pockets.

Uses
When harvested the Tingling Tambourine is often dried and used in rattles for children or for simple musical instruments that children can pick and craft themselves. The pockets of spores create a lovely wooden tingling noise that can't seem to be duplicated with modern technology. It is also commonly used in hospitals and medications as a milder alternative to anaesthesia. It has no known side effects and can wear off in as little as 20 minutes.

Twitching Toad

Deep in the darkness of our enchanted rain forests hides a real bounty. Hiding in the shadows of vines and basilisks lurks a real profitable little fungi; the toadstool we know as the Twitching Toad or the Twitching toadstool.

Appearance
These toadstools have a purplish brown hue and can be found trembling in the shadows of trees, vines and whatever else they can squeeze into the shadow of. They tremble to absorb moisture and particles from the air, which they use as food. The trembling also aides in warding off attackers, which often mistake the trembling for a warning from a snake.

Cautions
The Twitching Toad is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
The Twitching Toad can be found in the wettest regions of our world and in most enchanted rain forests, and despite its reigning popularity it can still be readily found and harvested.

Uses
Once harvested for its dye making ingredients, it was abandoned long ago when puce turned out to no longer be the "in" colour for robes. Now this magical marvel is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. The Twitching Toadstool has been found to have strengthening properties. Wand shops have recently been using this toadstool in certain waxes which promise to extend a wands life from one generation to 5 with only one application of the wax! That is a pretty incredible feat for a tiny toadstool. Since this wax hit the market, the demand for this toadstool has shot through the roof.

Waxy Wheel

A very prolific fungi, the Waxy Wheel may seem to be nothing more than a commoner among toadstool royalty, but don't let the fact that it is easy to find, deter you. When looking for choice toadstools, this should be among your top picks! Though it can be found quite readily, it is also one of the most needed and traded in our wizarding world.

Appearance
You can identify this particular toadstool by its distinctive cap. The cap has a pattern mimicking that of what a wagon wheel might look like. They are usually found in shades of rusty brown, but have been known to occasionally grow in lovely shades of garnet. The stem is usually between 3 to 8 inches tall in mature specimens and is usually ivory or a pale cream freckled with rusty brown.

Cautions
Waxy Wheel is rated 3, useful with no dangerous qualities.

Care Of
The Waxy Wheel can be grown readily in greenhouses, sheds, and gardens alike. It prefers shady dank conditions and will need to be watered constantly.

Uses
Among the most popular are waxes specifically developed for broom performance. The waxes from these toadstools is prized for its preservation properties, strengthening abilities and the wax is most famously known to add incredible shine to dull surfaces. In fact Ministry Studies show that the aging process of the wood that is rubbed with this magical wax, actually starts to reverse in aging.

Whomping Toadstools

The Whomping Toadstool is in the same family as the Whomping Willow as they have some of the same properties. This is one of the rarest specimens of toadstools in the world. Although they are very easy to spot, there are very few of them. Whomping Toadstools can be used for so many things, but most wizards do not know of their value to the world.

Appearance
Whomping Toadstools are between 5 and 8 inches wide and are generally about 4 inches tall. To identify this rare toadstool, you must notice three features. The first is an unusual cap. It is the colour of a zebra. This unusual black and white striped toadstool can be seen from a distance which is why they can easily be avoided. The second feature you must notice is a snow white stem. This is very important because if the stem is any other colour, it is not a Whomping Toadstool. Lastly, you must look for the most important feature, the black raindrop spot on the stem.

Cautions
Whomping Toadstools are rated 5, useful but use with caution. They have the tendency to destroy anything that comes near it just like the tree. It uses its cap as a club to beat anything coming close enough. They generally cannot injure a human badly, but can cause some minor pain. They also contain a toxin that can cause even greater injury.

Care Of
They are found mostly in tundra regions as they prefer mild temperatures. Like the Whomping Willow, there is a specific spot on the stem where if you push it, it will become calm as long as you hold it down. While holding down this spot, which looks like a black raindrop, pull it out of the ground. Then your toadstool will be available for use.

Uses
They can be used in a number of potions if you know how to collect them.