General Information
Name: Spore-Ring Fungus
Class: Vitalic
Type: Sealant
Colour: Pale ochre to grey-white with dark concentric lines
Smell: Damp earth with a faint sour tang, sharper when freshly cut
Description: Spore-Ring Fungus grows in near-perfect circular discs on damp stone or wood near brine-coastlines and tidal grottos. Its soft, slightly yielding surface hides a fibrous, dense core, easily sliced into precise shapes for crafting natural stoppers and seals. In the wild, it mimics lichen or crust, but a closer look reveals a shallow dome spreading symmetrically outward. When cut, its sponge-like pores and moisture-locking fibers make it a favorite among foragers and apothecaries for its uniformity and versatility.
Properties: Spore-Ring Fungus is highly compressible yet forms a tight seal, conforming smoothly to container necks, especially Veilglass. It carries mild antimicrobial properties, slowing spoilage in alchemical fluids, and offers a natural grip that resists slipping once pressed in. In humid conditions, it swells slightly to tighten its seal, remaining stable for seasons before gradual biodegradation.
Harvesting & Processing
Harvesting: Harvesting requires precision, targeting only the mature central disc, typically 4–7cm wide, as younger discs lack structure and older ones grow brittle. A narrow, sharp Veldstone blade is ideal for slicing close to the substrate without bruising the outer pores. Once harvested, the disc can be halved, quartered, or pressed into vial necks, often using a rounded press for molding.
Processing: Spore-Ring Fungus requires minimal processing, as its natural pliability suits it for immediate use as a sealant. After harvesting, the disc is gently cleaned to remove substrate debris, then halved or quartered with a Veldstone blade for shaping into plugs or seals, ideally using a rounded press to ensure a snug fit in Veilglass vials.
Storage: Spore-Ring Fungus is best used fresh within 3–5 days of harvest for maximum pliability, though it can be stored in waxed cloth with light moisture for up to a fortnight. Drying hardens it, limiting its use to permanent plugs.