Species details

Crested coral

Clavulina coralloides

Traditionally edible
Crested coral – Clavulina coralloides

Photo: Holger Krisp · CC BY 3.0 · Photo source · License

Description

A whitish to grey coral fungus with branched arms whose tips are characteristically flattened and crested.

Identification features

The fruitbody is usually only a few centimetres tall; branches arise from a common base and the flesh is white and somewhat tough.

Identification checklist

Check the entire fruitbody for identification. A whitish to grey coral fungus with branched arms whose tips are characteristically flattened and crested. The fruitbody is usually only a few centimetres tall; branches arise from a common base and the flesh is white and somewhat tough. Typical habitat: On the ground in deciduous and coniferous woodland, often with spruce, from late summer into late autumn.

How to separate similar species

Compare especially with these similar species: Clavulina cinerea, Ramaria species, Calocera viscosa. Check the entire fruitbody, spore-bearing surface, stem, texture, changes after bruising and habitat. A single feature or photograph is not enough for reliable identification.

Habitat

On the ground in deciduous and coniferous woodland, often with spruce, from late summer into late autumn.

Fruiting period

August, September, October, November

Similar species

Extended-description sources