While not toxic, Clathrus ruber is considered inedible due to its foul smell and unpleasant taste. Foragers should avoid consuming this mushroom.
Clathrus ruber is a striking fungus characterized by its bright red, cage-like structure that emerges from a white, egg-like base. The fruiting body has a unique appearance, often resembling a star or a cage, with a spongy texture and a strong, unpleasant odor when mature.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Agaricaceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Clathrus |
| Edibility | Inedible |
| Toxicity | none |
| Season | Aug-Oct |
| Habitat | Typically found in grassy areas, woodlands, and disturbed sites, often in sandy or loamy soil. |
| Region | Widely distributed in temperate regions, particularly in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. |
Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, woodlands, and disturbed sites, often in sandy or loamy soil.
Region: Widely distributed in temperate regions, particularly in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
Fruits from late summer to early autumn.
Typical months: Aug-Oct
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
distinguished by its more elongated, tentacle-like arms and different habitat preferences.
differs in having a round, puffball shape and lacks the lattice structure.
Pin the patch before you leave it. Coordinates, photos, and field notes stay on your device — and the offline lookalike guide travels with you into the deep woods.
Download Mushroom TrackerDisclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.