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Violet coral

Violet coral ©Dr Malcolm Storey

Violet coral

The branching, finger-like projections of this fungus give it the appearance of an underwater coral. Its striking colour and form make it easy to spot, but it is scarce in the UK.

Scientific name

Clavaria zollingeri

When to see

July to November

Species information

Statistics

Fruiting body: up to 10cm
Common.

About

The violet coral lives up to its name - a striking, violet, coral-like fungus that is widespread but quite rare. It can be found in broadleaved and coniferous woodland, as well as on unimproved grassland. It is usually solitary, but can occur in small groups. Fungi belong to their own kingdom and get their nutrients and energy from organic matter, rather than photosynthesis like plants. It is often just the fruiting bodies, or 'mushrooms', that are visible to us, arising from an unseen network of tiny filaments called 'hyphae'. These fruiting bodies produce spores for reproduction, although fungi can also reproduce asexually by fragmentation.

How to identify

The violet coral is a distinctive, coral-like fungus that has an intense deep violet colour. A number of erect branches grow out of a thick stem. The branches divide and the ends have shallow forks with blunt tips.

Distribution

Widespread, but scarce.

Did you know?

The violet coral is typical of unimproved grasslands - a habitat that is greatly under threat. The Wildlife Trusts manage many grassland habitats sympathetically for the benefit of all kinds of wildlife. Careful grazing with traditional breeds, hay-cutting at the right time and scrub clearance are just some of the ways grasslands are kept in good condition.