Home > Lantern stinkhorn

Lantern stinkhorn

Lysurus mokusin

A species of Lysurus, Also known as Ribbed lizard claw

Distinctive even among the outlandish varieties of the stinkhorn family, the lantern stinkhorn (Lysurus mokusin) bursts from the ground with a squared, flat-sided stem that’s ribbed like a churro. Atop this stipe is a hollow claw, like a hand with all its fingertips pressed together. The inside surface of this claw is coated with sticky, stinky goo meant to attract insects that will spread its spores.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 3 cm

Odor:

Foul, reminiscent of human feces.

General Info About Lantern stinkhorn

Instantly identify mushrooms with a snap

Snap a photo for instant mushroom ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on edible guidelines, toxicity, medical value, habitat, culture, and foraging techniques, etc.

Download the App for Free

Attributes of Lantern stinkhorn

Cap Diameter

2 - 3 cm

Height

7 - 15 cm

Cap

Up to 2 cm wide; whitish, dark to pale orange; covered with malodorous

Stem

Stem 2 - 7 cm long, 5 - 15 mm thick; equal; pale orange or pink, sometimes whitish; spongy and soft, hollow

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Volva

Adnate; white

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Olive-brown

Odor

Foul, reminiscent of human feces.

Body Color

White

Orange

Pink

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Wood Chips or Mulch

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Fairly widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Lantern stinkhorn

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

AI mushroom expert in your pocket

Habitat of Lantern stinkhorn

The lantern stinkhorn is primarily found in various urban settings such as gardens, lawns, nurseries, parks, and hard-packed soil. The mushroom is saprobic, which means it feeds on decomposing organic material such as rotting wood, wood chips, and compost.

Distribution Area of Lantern stinkhorn

Asia;naturalized in North America,southern Europe,Australia

Scientific Classification of Lantern stinkhorn

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Stinkhorn allies

Family

Stinkhorn mushrooms

Genus

Lysurus

Similar Species to Lantern stinkhorn

Unlocking the Secrets of Identifying Many Types of Mushroom

Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.

Download the App for Free

Tips for Finding Lantern stinkhorn

Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mushrooms

Explore the Ins and Outs of Mushroom Hunting: Timing, Optimal Soil Conditions, and More Tips!

Download the App for Free

What are Some Tips for Finding Lantern stinkhorn

Search urban green spaces like parks, home gardens, and landscaped areas where soil is frequently disturbed.
Look for lantern stinkhorn near compost piles or organic debris in gardens and nurseries, since they can grow on well-decayed plant material.
Inspect mulched areas, as lantern stinkhorn may occasionally grow on well-rotted wood chips embedded within the soil.
Use a gentle hand to slightly disturb the upper layers of mulch or organic debris in search for lantern stinkhorn, as they might be hidden just beneath the surface.