Is Devil's Fingers mushroom poisonous?

Devil's Fingers (Clathrus archeri) is not considered poisonous, but it is inedible due to its extremely foul smell resembling rotting flesh. The odor is so unpleasant that no one would want to eat it. It's classified as non-toxic but inedible.

Where does Devil's Fingers grow?

Devil's Fingers is native to Australia and New Zealand but has spread to Europe, North America, and other regions. It grows in woodlands, gardens, and areas with decaying organic matter, typically appearing in late summer through fall after rain.

What does Devil's Fingers smell like?

Devil's Fingers produces an extremely foul odor similar to rotting meat or carrion. This smell attracts flies and other insects which help spread its spores. The stench can be detected from several feet away.

How do I identify Devil's Fingers?

Devil's Fingers emerges from a white 'egg' and opens into 4-8 bright red tentacle-like arms. It has a slimy, dark spore mass on the inner surface of the arms. The combination of red tentacles and putrid smell makes it unmistakable.

How to Identify Devil's Fingers,Octopus Stinkhorn

Scientific Name: Clathrus archeri

Image source: MushroomObserver (CC BY-SA 3.0)

ℹ️ Edibility Note

While not toxic, Clathrus archeri is considered inedible due to its unpleasant smell and texture. Foragers should avoid consuming it and be cautious of lookalikes that may be harmful.

Description

Clathrus archeri is a distinctive fungus characterized by its unique, tentacle-like arms that emerge from a central base. The arms are initially enclosed in a gelatinous egg-like structure and later open up to reveal a spongy, foul-smelling interior that attracts insects for spore dispersal.

Habitat & Distribution

Habitat: Typically found in decaying wood, leaf litter, or grassy areas, often in disturbed sites.

Region: Found in temperate regions worldwide, including parts of Europe, North America, and Australia.

Seasonality

Fruits primarily in late summer to early autumn.

Common Lookalikes

Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:

Clathrus ruber (inedible) - Similar appearance but typically has a more solid structure and less pronounced arms.
Phallus impudicus (poisonous) - Has a more elongated shape and lacks the tentacle-like arms of Clathrus archeri.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.