How to identify Clustered jelly

To correctly identify Clustered jelly (Tremella mesenterica), 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.

   The cap is small, typically less than 1 inch in diameter, and has a gelatinous, bright orange color. The shape of the cap is often irregular and can be slightly convex or flattened.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are not present on this fungus.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is not present on this fungus. It is a sessile fungus, meaning that it grows directly attached to the wood without a stem.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is gelatinous, translucent, and rubbery. It has a mild taste and smell.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruit bodies are small, typically less than 1 inch in diameter. They are gelatinous, bright orange, and have a rubbery texture.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   This fungus is commonly found in woodlands and forest floors on dead or decaying hardwood trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Gelatinous, smooth

Growth Form

Sessile, clustered

Spore Print

None

Body color

Bright orange

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

None

Height

Less than 1 inch

Cap Diameter

Less than 1 inch

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: None
• Stem shape: None
• Stem surface: None
• Ring: None
• Stem cross-section: None

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