Ramaria fumigata

Morphological Features:

Fruiting body composed of a solid base from which two or three arms arise, which in turn branch into multiple ramifications. These ramifications terminate in an apex formed by two or three tips. The overall dimensions can reach over 10 cm in height by a similar width at the upper region. When young, the branches of this species exhibit a striking, beautiful lilac color; over time, this color fades to more grayish tones, and upon sporulation, they eventually become ochre.

Hymenium located on the external surface of the ramifications in an amphigenous manner; therefore, only the stipe is sterile. It is completely smooth.

Stipe which is actually a basal thickening from which the ramifications subsequently arise; it is white, thick and solid, massive, and fleshier than typical for the genus. It can reach up to 4 cm in thickness and a similar height.

Flesh white and thick for its genus, unchanging upon cutting or rubbing. Its odor is fungal and very mild, and its mild flavor when young gradually becomes slightly bitter over time.

Habitat:

Our collection was made in a woodland clearing of Pinus silvestris, near which a couple of oaks were observed, although the literature indicates it is typical of beech forests. The season when the photographs were taken was autumn, specifically in October. It is a rare species.

Observations:

There is some controversy regarding this taxon, synonymized by some authors with Ramaria fennica, or a variety thereof; we have chosen not to include it as a synonym. It is a striking and beautiful mushroom to observe due to its lilac color, which contrasts with the white stipe. Clavaria amethystina or Clavaria zollingeri share this same color, but they lack the white basal swelling from which the branches arise, a distinguishing characteristic between the two genera.