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 Autumn 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, which is not ideal for mushroom growth, the exhibits showcased a remarkable diversity of species, reflecting the tremendous work done by SHHNH members in collecting and identifying them. In total, nearly 200 species of mushrooms and just as many autumn plants were on display.

Visitors were also able to explore:

• 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 visitors of all ages, while the geologists presented an exhibition tied to Sunday’s lecture on “Fungi Through the Geological Ages.”

Two fascinating lectures

Two lectures were held over the weekend and drew a passionate audience:

• “100% natural does not mean 100% safe!”, by Olivier Mathieu, Ph.D. in Pharmacy and Head of the Department of Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology (University–University Hospital of Montpellier),
• “Fungi Through the Geological Ages,” by Michel Crousilles, geologist and vice president of the SHHNH.

The lively discussions 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 lively and unifying event

This 45th edition brought together all four sections of the SHHNH —mycology, botany, entomology, and geology. This collaborative effort 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 premises.

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.