The Strangest Fungi In The World-And Where To Find Them
Fungi are strange by nature, but some species go far beyond what most people expect. From glowing mushrooms in rainforests to parasitic invaders that control insects, the fungal world holds no shortage of bizarre life. Whether you're interested in spotting them in the wild or just want to learn something new, here are nine of the strangest fungi out there, where they grow, and why they’re so fascinating.
Bleeding Tooth Fungus (Hydnellum peckii)
This fungus looks like it's oozing blood. Found in North America and Europe, mostly in coniferous forests, it has a creamy cap that produces red droplets when young. Despite its alarming look, it’s not dangerous, though it's not edible either. It forms symbiotic relationships with tree roots, helping trees absorb nutrients while growing low to the forest floor in damp conditions.
Devil's Cigar (Chorioactis geaster)
This fungus is extremely rare, only found in parts of Texas and Japan, strangely enough. It looks like a dark, closed pod before it splits open with a puff of spores and an audible hissing sound. Its strange appearance and limited habitat have made it a target of scientific curiosity. It typically grows on decaying wood and is best found in cooler months after rain.
Octopus Stinkhorn (Clathrus archeri)
Native to Australia and Tasmania, this fungus has now spread to Europe and North America. When it emerges, it resembles a starfish or octopus with red arms covered in dark, smelly slime. The foul odor mimics rotting meat to attract flies, which help spread its spores. It grows from an egg-like sack in moist soil or mulch.
Bioluminescent Mushrooms (Mycena chlorophos)
These glow-in-the-dark mushrooms emit a soft green light, making forests in Japan, Taiwan, and parts of the South Pacific feel almost unreal. They thrive in humid conditions and tend to grow on rotting wood. The glow is believed to attract insects, which then helps the fungus spread its spores once insects fly off with them. They're hard to spot, and only light up in the dark, so timing and location matter if you want to see them for yourself.
Indigo Milk Cap (Lactarius indigo)
This fungus species stands out for its bright blue color, which fades to gray as it ages. When broken, it releases a blue, milk-like liquid. Found in forests across North and Central America, as well as parts of Asia, it grows near hardwood trees. Unlike many odd fungi, it's actually edible and often sold in local markets in Mexico and Guatemala.
Dog Stinkhorn (Mutinus caninus)
Often found in wood chips, gardens, or forests across Europe and North America, the Dog Stinkhorn looks like its name implies. It has a pale, slender body with a dark tip that produces a strong odor to attract insects. It starts in an egg-like form and grows rapidly. While its smell puts most people off, it's harmless and plays an important role in breaking down organic material.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps spp.)
Cordyceps are a species of fungus known for invading insects, especially ants, taking over their bodies and forcing them to climb before dying. The fungus then grows out of their bodies. These fungi live in tropical forests, especially in Asia and South America. While horrifying in concept, they play a role in keeping insect populations in check. Some species are even used in traditional medicine and supplements.
Veiled Lady (Phallus indusiatus)
This mushroom is known for the lace-like skirt that hangs from its cap. It grows in tropical areas of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It's technically a species of stinkhorn, and like other stinkhorns, it gives off a strong odor to attract insects. The net-like skirt adds to its strange appearance and gives it an almost ghostly look. Despite the smell, it's edible and even considered a delicacy in some cultures
Dead Man's Fingers (Xylaria polymorpha)
These fungi have a creepy look, like blackened, swollen fingers sticking out of the ground. They grow from decaying wood, usually at the base of stumps or logs, across North America and Europe. Though unsettling, they're not harmful, they actually help in breaking down dead wood. They're most often seen in the spring and fall, especially after rain.
Fungi may not move or speak, but many of them are more alive (and unusual) than they seem at first glance. Whether glowing in the dark or mimicking something dead, these species are reminders of how complex nature really is. You don't have to be a scientist to appreciate them, just curious about their place in the world! Keep an eye out, you might be surprised what’s growing right under your feet.