The striking violet coral (Clavaria zollingeri) is most common in the eastern part of North America, although it can also be found elsewhere. The clustered, branching fruitbody looks spectacularly similar to an underwater coral, in both shape and color. This species is distinguished by the antler-like pattern with which each frond branches.
Cap Diameter:
2 - 6 mm
Odor:
Mild, not distinctive, slightly radishlike.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Violet coral
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Attributes of Violet coral
Cap Diameter
2 - 6 mm
Height
5 - 10 cm
Cap
2 - 6 mm wide; tips rounded or irregular; purple to pinkish purple, fading somewhat
Stem
Individual elements usually sharing a common base; purple to pinkish purple, base whitish
Flesh
Thin; brittle; purplish
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mild, not distinctive, slightly radishlike.
Body Color
Purple
Pink
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Clustered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
Mosses, On soil
You can find Violet coral by these plants:
European beech, Common hazel
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Meadows
Species Status
Vulnerable
Endangered Species
Yes
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Habitat of Violet coral
The violet coral is found on unfertilized grasslands, sheep-grazed pastures, old lawns and gardens, churchyards, and woods. It is found growing in the grass or popping out from the moss in woodland environments.
