The Red Spear-tip Fungus Mushroom Found in Mulch

Identification

• Red spear-tip stinkhorn fungus mushrooms are caused by M. elegans and Mutinus caninus, and commonly occur in organic mulch. This fungus begins in a small, egg shape, and grows taller, eventually reaching 4 to 8 inches in height. Stinkhorn fungus is typically red in color, with a dark mass of spores on the tip.

Effects

• The dark tip of red stinkhorn fungus distributes spores via insects, which carry spores on their bodies to other areas. Stinkhorn fungus spreads quickly and is considered a nuisance fungi. The pungent odor emitted by this fungus is often problematic for homeowners.

Prevention/Solution

• Using dry mulches that have high wood content contributes to the development of stinkhorn fungus, because the fungi colonize primarily in dry wood. Avoid sour mulches and dry mulches to prevent stinkhorn fungus. Compost woody mulch, and soak it with water after placing it in your flower bed to avoid fungal development.