How to identify Black Trumpet

To correctly identify Black Trumpet (Urnula craterium), 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.

   Urn-shaped, dark brown to black, often wrinkled or furrowed.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent (Ascomycete)

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Rudimentary or absent.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin, leathery, and dark.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Urn-shaped when young, opening and flattening with age.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Decaying hardwood, especially oak and hickory.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Wrinkled or furrowed

Growth Form

Clustered or solitary

Spore Print

White

Body color

Dark brown to black

Odor

Not distinctive

Flesh bruises

Not applicable

Height

2-4 cm

Cap Diameter

2-5 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Absent (Ascomycete)
• Stem shape: Rudimentary or absent
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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