A Look Back at the 45th Annual Fall Mushroom and Plant Fair

On October 18 and 19, 2025, the Montpellier School of Pharmacy hosted the 45th edition of the Fall Mushroom and Plant Fair, organized in partnership with the Hérault Society of Horticulture and Natural History (SHHNH).

A remarkable diversity of species on display

Despite an exceptionally dry October—a month not particularly conducive to mushroom growth—the exhibits showcased a remarkable diversity of species, reflecting the outstanding work in collecting and identifying specimens carried out by the members of the SHHNH. In total, nearly 200 species of mushrooms and just as many fall plants were on display.

Visitors were also able to discover:

• a workshop on distinguishing between edible and poisonous species,
• a workshop to identify plants brought in by the public,
• interactive educational tools for practicing species identification,
• as well as three card games that let you test your knowledge of which mushrooms are edible and which are poisonous.

The entomologists, set up in the center of the hall, captured the interest of young and old alike, while the geologists presented an exhibit related to Sunday’s lecture on “Fungi Through the Geological Ages.”

Two captivating lectures

Two lectures were the highlights of the weekend and drew an enthusiastic audience:

• “100% Natural Doesn’t Mean 100% Safe!” by Olivier Mathieu, Ph.D. in Pharmacy and Chair of the Department of Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology (University–Montpellier University Hospital),
• “Fungi Through the Geological Ages,” by Michel Crousilles, geologist and vice president of the SHHNH.

The lively exchanges between the speakers and the audience continued well beyond the presentations, reflecting the interest generated by these topics at the intersection of the natural sciences and health.

A vibrant and unifying trade show

This 45th edition brought together all four sections of the SHHNH —mycology, botany, entomology, and geology. This shared enthusiasm was praised by students, families, and enthusiasts, who gathered in a friendly, intergenerational atmosphere. The Albert Ciurana Pharmacy Museum also reopened its doors for the occasion in its recently renovated facilities.

The success of this event is a testament to the joint efforts of SHHNH volunteers and the staff of the School of Pharmacy—including faculty members, administrative staff, and technical staff—who worked to prepare, organize, and ensure the smooth running of the fair.