How to identify Dead Man's Fingers

To correctly identify Dead Man's Fingers (Xylaria polymorpha), 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 in Xylaria polymorpha. The fruiting body is a single, elongated structure.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   This fungus does not have gills.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   There is no distinct stem. The fruiting body arises directly from the substrate.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is tough and whitish inside, becoming black with age.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Xylaria polymorpha is typically club-shaped or finger-like, ranging from 3 to 10 cm in height and 1 to 3 cm in width. Young specimens may have a grayish or bluish tint, but they mature to a dark brown or black color. The surface is often rough and textured.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Xylaria polymorpha is commonly found on decaying wood, such as fallen logs, stumps, and branches. It is a saprobic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients from dead organic matter. It can be found in various woodland habitats.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

N/A

Growth Form

Clustered or solitary

Spore Print

Black

Body color

Dark brown to black

Odor

Not distinctive

Flesh bruises

Does not bruise

Height

3-10 cm

Cap Diameter

N/A

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A
• Stem shape: N/A
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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