Snuff Said

Candle Snuff Fungus, Xylaria hypoxylon

To be found throughout the year, Candle Snuff fungus (Xylaria hypoxylon) is most visible now as most ground cover in the deciduous woodlands it is associated with has died back for the winter. It is cylindrical to flattened in shape, branching into an antler formation. The upper stromal surface is white and powdery and becomes black tipped at maturity. The lower, sterile parts are black and downy (Jordan, 2004 The Encyclopedia of Fungi of Britain and Europe p. 78).

Candle Snuff Fungus, Xylaria hypoxylon