Basket Stinkhorn
Clathrus ruber
Identification: Clathrus ruber (Basket Stinkhorn) - Inedible
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Key Features
- Bright orange to red lattice structure
- Hollow
- cage-like fruiting body
- Emerges from a white 'egg' stage (volva)
- Foul
- putrid odor (when gleba is present)
- Grows terrestrially among debris
Color:
Bright orange and red
Smell:
Foul, putrid odor (rotting flesh)
Growth Pattern:
Single
Environment:
Soil and leaf litter
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat:
Forest floor, mulch, or grassy areas
Distribution:
Widespread in temperate and subtropical regions
Seasonality:
Summer to Autumn
Economic Value
Market Demand:
None - foul odor and inedible
Price Range:
N/A
Commercial Use:
None
Similar Species
Devil's Fingers
Clathrus archeri
Key Differences:
- Opens into distinct, separate red arms
- Lacks the spherical, netted cage structure
Column Stinkhorn
Clathrus columnatus
Key Differences:
- Forms two to five vertical columns
- Columns are fused at the apex
Recommended Action
Do not handle or consume. Observe from a distance.