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CANDLESNUFF FUNGUS

Xylaria hypoxylon

Candlesnuff [fungi] [Xylariaceae]

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28th Nov 2009, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Rufford. Photo: © RWD
Grows in clusters on dead broad-leaf wood. Can infect Hawthorn and Gooseberry causing root rot.


28th Nov 2009, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Rufford. Photo: © RWD
Grows up to 6cm high. With a blackened base, a greyish middle and enamel-white ends which can furcate like antlers.


28th Nov 2009, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Rufford. Photo: © RWD
The white ends especially are flattened and usually fingered.


28th Nov 2009, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Rufford. Photo: © RWD
The white tips are often furcated, twisted and bent.


28th Nov 2009, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Rufford. Photo: © RWD


Uniquely identifiable characteristics

Distinguishing Feature :

Habitat: grows on dead deciduous wood.

It is very common and to be found throughout the year, but especially from autumn through winter. It is strong and rubbery, able to be bent without snapping. Black at the base, grey in the middle and enamel white at the tips it looks similar to a snuffed-out candlewick, hence the name. It grows up to 6cm tall, but is usually half that height. The spores are ripe in autumn and coloured white, occupy the tips and giving it a rougher appearance. It is flattened in cross-section, and usually branches a little like a stags' horn at the tip hence the alternative name 'Stag's-horn Fungus'.


  Xylaria hypoxylon  ⇐ Global Aspect ⇒ Xylariaceae  

CANDLESNUFF FUNGUS

Xylaria hypoxylon

Candlesnuff [fungi] [Xylariaceae]

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