Clathrus ruber is a remarkable species, almost certainly introduced rather than native to northern Europe. When seen for the first time it is often assumed to be something other than a fungus. Like the common stinkhorn and the dog stinkhorn, this 'cage stinkhorn' emerges from a white ball. It is commonly referred to as the Red Cage or as the Lattice (or Latticework) Fungus.
Description
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A large, globe-shaped fruit
body whose surface consists of a cage-like mesh structure. The bright red colour makes this striking species very easy to identify; however, it is a relatively rare find in Britain and mainly found in the south of England and on the Isle of Wight. |
Dimensions |
Typically 5 to 15 cm across and roughly spherical. |
Other features |
The inside of the cage is coated with a smelly gleba that attracts flies. |
Stipe |
None. |
Spores |
Olive. |
Odour/taste |
Strong, unpleasant odour reminescent of rotting meat; no distinctive
taste. |
Habitat |
Mainly found in gardens, often on or beside decomposing vegetable matter and in particular compost heaps. Increasing this species is being found growing on bark mulch. |
Season |
June to September . |
Occurrence |
Rare in southern mainland Britain but now quite common in the Channel Islands. |
Similar species |
Unlikely to mistaken for any other species. |
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