A species of Alloclavaria, Also known as Purple spindles
The purple coral is a tiny, but beautiful and impressive fungus that can be immediately distinguished from other Alloclavaria and Clavaria species by its distinctive purple colour. This mushroom grows in large clusters, but it's still unclear whether it's a saprobic or mycorrhizal species.
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Purple coral
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Attributes of Purple coral
Height
2 - 15 cm
Stem
2.5 - 10 cm high, 2 - 6 mm wide; cylindrical to nearly spindle-shaped; dull purple to purplish brown, paler at the extreme base; dry, soft
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Thin; whitish to purplish
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Purple
Growth Form
Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal, Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Mosses
You can find Purple coral by these plants:
Subalpine fir
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed in northern, montane, and western North America.
Endangered Species
No
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Habitat of Purple coral
Purple coral is typically found in clusters under conifers, often amidst moss growth, favoring tightly packed formations.
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Edibility of Purple coral
Though reported to be edible, purple coral is never a popular choice. It has almost no flavor, and it's usually to small and slight to be worth cooking. Like many other coral mushrooms, this species is better left as a feast for the eyes.
Similar Species to Purple coral
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Tips for Finding Purple coral
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What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Purple coral
Prefers sandy soil in forest environments.
What are Some Tips for Finding Purple coral
Search beneath conifer trees, as purple coral is known to grow in their vicinity.
Look for tightly clustered groups, making note of any mossy areas, which these mushrooms favor.
Examine sandy soil patches, especially in clustered or troop-like formations.
Investigate forested dune areas if accessible; purple coral has been noted to grow in such conditions.
How to Clean and Preserve Purple coral
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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