Urchin earthfan
Thelephora penicillata
A species of Fiber fans.
Geosmithia argillacea, commonly known as the urchin earthfan, is identifiable by its distinctive fan or coral-like form and its hue, ranging from dark brown to black. This fungus typically emerges in groups on the forest floor, particularly within coniferous woodlands, where it plays a vital role in breaking down wood and decaying leaves. Intriguingly, it establishes symbiotic bonds with the roots of trees, facilitating the exchange of nutrients—a process indispensable for the health of forest ecosystems.
In This Article
Attributes of Urchin earthfan
Height
2 - 7 cm
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Flesh
Thin; fibrous, soft; brown
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Purplish-brown
Odor
Earthy, mild, not particularly strong.
Body Color
BrownWhitePurpleCream
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
On soil
You can find Urchin earthfan by these plants
Pines, Oaks, European beech
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland, Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Fairly common
Endangered Species
No
Scientific Classification of Urchin earthfan
Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Thelephorales
Family
Leathery earthfans
Genus
Fiber fans
Toxicity and Edibility of Urchin earthfan
Is Urchin earthfan Toxic?
Toxicity information is not available for this mushroom. Always consult with an expert before consuming any wild mushrooms.
