Home News Stumbled across these black, finger-like things poking out of the mulch in my backyard.

Stumbled across these black, finger-like things poking out of the mulch in my backyard.

News admin1 · March 7, 2026 · Comments off

Discovering unusual growths in your backyard can be both unsettling and fascinating, particularly when black, finger-like structures emerge from mulch or soil. These eerie formations are often a type of fungus known as D.e αd Man’s Fingers (Xylaria polymorpha). Despite their macabre appearance, these fungi are harmless and play a beneficial role in breaking down decaying wood and enriching soil. Typically, D.e αd Man’s Fingers appear as elongated, black or dark brown protrusions, growing up to three or four inches in length. When young, they may start pale or whitish, gradually hardening into a woody texture that adds to their... Continues…