Fenugreek Stalkball - Phleogena faginea

The stalked fruitbodies have a ball shaped head measuring 1 to 3 mm across, bearing the spores. They start off a whitish-grey colour and become dark grey or brownish with age.  

The smell of fenugreek (like mild curry-powder) becomes stronger as the fungus dries out, and is especially noticeable if a few specimens are placed in a sealed pot for a couple of days.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. Please state the host tree species when adding a record.

On the bark of dead hardwood, mostly Beech but occasionally other species.

Autumn to winter.

Most British records come from south-eastern England and East Anglia.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.