Fairy Ring

A fairy ring, also known as fairy circle, elf circle, elf ring or pixie ring, is a naturally occurring ring or arc of mushrooms. The rings may grow to over 10 metres (33 ft) in diameter, and they become stable over time as the fungus grows and seeks food underground. They are found mainly in forested areas, but also appear in grasslands or rangelands. Fairy rings are detectable by sporocarps in rings or arcs, as well as by a necrotic zone (dead grass), or a ring of dark green grass. If these manifestations are visible a fairy fungus mycelium is likely to be present in the ring or arc underneath.

Fairy rings also occupy a prominent place in European folklore as the location of gateways into elfin kingdoms, or places where elves gather and dance. According to the folklore, a fairy ring appears when a fairy, pixie, or elf appears. It will disappear without trace in less than five days, but if an observer waits for the elf to return to the ring, he or she may be able to capture it.

Read more about Fairy Ring:  Genesis, Necrotic or Rapid Growth Zones, Types, Species Involved

Famous quotes containing the words fairy and/or ring:

    The fairy queen
    Bids you increase that loving humour more.
    They that have not yet fed
    On delight amorous,
    She vows that they shall lead
    Apes in Avernus.
    Thomas Campion (1567–1620)

    Good manners have much to do with the emotions. To make them ring true, one must feel them, not merely exhibit them.
    Amy Vanderbilt (1908–1974)