How to identify Golden Spindle, Spindle-shaped Yellow Coral

To correctly identify Golden Spindle, Spindle-shaped Yellow Coral (Clavulinopsis fusiformis), 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.

   Not applicable; the entire structure is a simple clavate or spindle-shaped club.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   None; the hymenium covers the outer surface of the club.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The base is usually white or pale, contrasting with the vibrant yellow to orange upper fruiting body.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Brittle, hollow when mature, and fibrous in texture.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Usually 5-15 cm tall, fasciculate (growing in thick, dense clusters).

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Typically found on mossy ground in both coniferous and deciduous forests, often in grassy clearings.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth to slightly wrinkled

Growth Form

Fasciculate clusters

Spore Print

White

Body color

Bright yellow, orange-yellow, often fading at the tip

Odor

None

Flesh bruises

None

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

0.5-1.5 cm width

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A
• Stem shape: Spindle-shaped or cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow at maturity

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