Common Stinkhorn
Phallus impudicus
Common Stinkhorn (Phallus impudicus) Observation
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Key Features
- Reticulated (pitted) conical head
- Spongy
- hollow white stalk
- Gelatinous volva at the base
- Strong
- carrion-like odor
- Presence of carrion-feeding insects
Color:
White stalk and pale yellowish-white head
Smell:
Foul, like rotting meat
Growth Pattern:
Single
Environment:
Leaf litter
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat:
Deciduous and coniferous forests, gardens, and parks
Distribution:
North America, Europe, and temperate Asia
Seasonality:
Summer to late Autumn
Economic Value
Market Demand:
Low - immature 'eggs' occasionally sold in local markets in parts of Europe and Asia
Price Range:
N/A
Commercial Use:
Limited culinary use of immature stages; generally no commercial value
Similar Species
Hadrian's Stinkhorn
Phallus hadriani
Key Differences:
- Pink to purple-tinted volva
- Commonly found in sandy soils
Ravenel's Stinkhorn
Phallus ravenelii
Key Differences:
- Granular head surface
- Head lacks deep reticulation
Yellow Morel
Morchella esculenta
Key Differences:
- Lacks basal volva
- Non-spongy stalk texture
- Lacks foul odor
Recommended Action
Do not consume; maintain distance to avoid strong odor.