Species details
Red cage fungus
Clathrus ruber
Inedible
Photo: Amadej Trnkoczy · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Photo source · License
Description
An unusual red to orange fungus forming a hollow lattice cage with a strong unpleasant smell.
Identification features
It develops from a white egg-like structure; dark slimy gleba on the inner cage attracts insects.
Identification checklist
Check the entire fruitbody for identification. An unusual red to orange fungus forming a hollow lattice cage with a strong unpleasant smell. It develops from a white egg-like structure; dark slimy gleba on the inner cage attracts insects. Typical habitat: Warm gardens, parks, compost, mulch and Mediterranean areas; increasingly found farther north.
How to separate similar species
Compare especially with these similar species: Phallus impudicus, Clathrus archeri. Check the combination of cap shape and colour, spore-bearing surface, stem, flesh changes and habitat. A single feature or photograph is not enough; if the key characters do not match the description, do not treat the identification as confirmed.
Habitat
Warm gardens, parks, compost, mulch and Mediterranean areas; increasingly found farther north.
Fruiting period
May, June, July, August, September, October, November
Similar species
- Common stinkhorn (Phallus impudicus)
- Clathrus archeri