Candlesnuff Fungus

Candlesnuff Fungus is a club-like fungus that grows between 2cm and 5cm high and looks like a burnt candle wick. It is irregular, flattish and stick-like. The base of the stem is hairy and black and is progressively covered in a white powder up to the tip. The stem typically has several branches forming an antler-like head, or a simple fork.

It grows throughout the year but is particularly noticeable during late autumn and winter. It can be found growing in groups on dead and rotting wood of broadleaved trees.

A very common and widespread species in Britain.