How to identify Honeycomb Coral Mushroom

To correctly identify Honeycomb Coral Mushroom (Clathrus ruber), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   There is no distinct cap. The entire structure forms a reticulated cage.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   No gills are present.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   There is no true stem. The base of the structure is attached to the substrate, often with rhizomorphs.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is spongy and fragile, with a reddish or orange hue. It is not substantial, being mostly air space within the lattice.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a hollow, spherical or ovoid lattice-like structure resembling a cage. It typically starts as a whitish 'egg' before expanding. The mature structure is composed of interconnected, spongy arms.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Typically found in leaf litter, wood chips, gardens, and grassy areas. Often found in disturbed ground and can be associated with decaying woody material.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Reticulated, lattice-like

Growth Form

Stinkhorn, lattice structure

Spore Print

Olive-brown (gleba)

Body color

Typically bright red or orange, can vary

Odor

Strong, putrid odor

Flesh bruises

Not applicable

Height

Up to 20 cm

Cap Diameter

Up to 15 cm (overall diameter of the cage)

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: No gills present
• Stem shape: No true stem
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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