Golden Coral Fungus

not listed

Summer and fall

Deciduous and mixed woodlands. Hardwoods.

Golden Coral Fungus is a medium-sized, coral-like fungus. It is common in Europe and eastern North America. In the United States it occurs from Maine to Minnesota, south to Alabama, and in California, Washington, and Utah. It obtains its nutrients from decaying wood (saprobic). It is found in deciduous and mixed forests, alone or in groups, on the ground under hardwoods.

The fruiting body is 2¾″ to 6″ (7 to 15 cm) tall, 4″ to 6″ (10 to 15 cm) wide, and profusely branched above short, thick stalk. The stalks are sometimes fused into a thick, fleshy base. The branches are coral-like, smooth, and mostly erect. They are never ribbon-like. When young they are golden yellow or whitish with bright yellow tips. As they age they fade to dull brown. Spores are produced by cells (basidia) lining the outer surface of the upright branches.

The flesh is fibrous and brittle, never gelatinous. It does not change color when bruised or cut. Eating is not recommended due possible confusion with several species that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The spore print is orangish-yellow.

Sources: 4, 24, 26, 29, 30, 77.

Location: Cass County