UFR of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences

A look back at the 45th edition of the Salon Champignons et Plantes d'Automne

Published on in Events

On October 18 and 19, 2025, the Faculté de Pharmacie de Montpellier hosted the 45th edition of the Salon Champignons et Plantes d'Automne, organized in partnership with the Société d'Horticulture et d'Histoire Naturelle de l'Hérault (SHHNH).

A remarkable diversity of species on display

Despite an exceptionally dry October, not very conducive to mushroom growth, the exhibits offered a remarkable diversity of species, testifying to the formidable work of collection and identification carried out by SHHNH members. In all, almost 200 species of mushrooms and as many autumn plants were on display.

Visitors were also able to discover :

  • a workshop on confusing edible and poisonous species,
  • a workshop to identify crops brought in by the public,
  • interactive teaching tools for practicing species recognition,
  • and three card games to test your knowledge of mushroom edibility and toxicity.

The entomologists, installed in the center of the hall, aroused the interest of young and old alike, while the geologists put on an exhibition linked to the Sunday conference on "Mushrooms through the geological ages".

Two captivating conferences

Two conferences punctuated the weekend and drew an enthusiastic audience:

  • "In health, 100% natural is not 100% safe", by Olivier Mathieu, Doctor of Pharmacy and Head of the Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology Department (University-CHU Montpellier),
  • "Mushrooms through the geological ages", by Michel Crousilles, geologist and vice-president of the SHHNH.

The lively exchanges between speakers and audience continued well beyond the presentations, testifying to the interest aroused by these themes at the crossroads of the natural sciences and health.

A lively, unifying show

This 45th edition brought together all four SHHNH sections - mycology, botany, entomology and geology. Students, families and enthusiasts all enjoyed the event's friendly, intergenerational atmosphere. The Albert Ciurana Pharmacy Museum also reopened its doors for the occasion, in recently renovated premises.

The success of this event is a testament to the joint investment of SHHNH volunteers and Faculty of Pharmacy staff - teachers-researchers, administrative and technical personnel - who worked hard to prepare, set up and run the show.