How to identify Yellow Coral Fungus

To correctly identify Yellow Coral Fungus (Ramaria flava), 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.

   N/A

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Short, thick, and white to yellowish

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White to yellowish, brittle

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Bright yellow, branching, coral-like structure

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Decaying wood or leaf litter in woodlands

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

N/A

Growth Form

Branched, coral-like

Spore Print

Yellowish

Body color

Bright yellow

Odor

Mild, not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

N/A

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Gills absent)
• Stem shape: Not applicable
• Stem surface: Not applicable
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Not applicable

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