As the autumn season arrives, nature puts on a vibrant display of colors and shapes, especially when it comes to fungi. Among the many fascinating species that emerge from tree stumps and woodland floors, one stands out: the devil’s fingers fungus, also known as the octopus stinkhorn or the Squidward mushroom.
This peculiar fungus can be found between July and October in select southern regions of the UK. It prefers moist, shaded areas such as wood chips, leaf litter, and rough grasslands. While it belongs to the stinkhorn family, it looks nothing like our native stinkhorns when it reaches maturity.
When the devil’s fingers fungus first emerges, it can reach heights of up to 15cm. Its red-clasped branches open up and gracefully arch back towards the ground. The inside surface of each branch is lacy and covered in a dark, sticky goo that resembles clotting blood. This goo, known as gleba, contains the spores necessary for reproduction.
Unlike most fungi that rely on wind or rain to disperse their spores, the devil’s fingers fungus has developed a unique method of animal dispersal. The pungent, rotting odor emitted by the gleba attracts insects, particularly bluebottle flies. These insects inadvertently carry the spores on their legs and help colonize new areas.
When the time comes for the fungus to release its spores, it goes through a sinister transformation. The network of fungus stretches to the soil’s surface and forms a translucent, gelatinous, egg-shaped structure. Inside this structure, the iconic fingers of the fungus begin to take shape. Slowly, the fingers emerge from the egg, unfurling into their octopus-like form.
While technically edible in its immature egg stage, the devil’s fingers fungus does not come highly recommended. A mycologist who tried it described its flavor and texture as disagreeable. It is best to avoid consuming the tentacles altogether.
In addition to its unique appearance and characteristics, this fungus is also alien in terms of its distribution. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, it has spread to various countries worldwide through contaminated nursery stock and plant products. It is believed to have arrived in Europe in the early 1900s, possibly through war supplies like wood and wool. Today, it can be reliably found in specific hotspots in the New Forest, Hampshire, where military bases were established in the 1940s.
All in all, the devil’s fingers fungus is a fascinating and otherworldly addition to our native fungi. If your usual haunted castle tour or fright night is canceled this year, why not take a leisurely walk through the enchanting New Forest? Experience the eerie beauty of the devil’s fingers fungus and embrace the wonders of the natural world this Halloween season.
