Introduction
Every day, nature surprises us with shapes and colors that look almost unbelievable. One such example is the bizarre, red-tipped fungus frequently spotted in damp forests and grassy areas. When photos of this unusual organism appear online, people instantly begin guessing:
Is it a plant? A strange creature? Something dangerous?
The truth is far more fascinating. The fungus seen in the images is commonly known as the Dog Stinkhorn (Mutinus caninus) — a species famous for its odd shape, slimy texture, and strong smell.
In this article, we
explore everything you need to know about this strange fungus: how it grows, whether it’s harmful, why it has such a weird shape, and why people keep finding it in their gardens.
What Exactly Is the Dog Stinkhorn?
The Dog Stinkhorn is a type of mushroom belonging to the Phallaceae family. It gets its name from its unique shape, which resembles a dog’s snout or tail. This fungus is easily recognizable due to:
A bright red or orange tip
A slimy brown coating (called gleba)
A thin, finger-like stalk
A strong odor, similar to rotting organic material
While its appearance may look alarming, this fungus is a natural part of many woodland ecosystems.
Why Does It Look So Weird?
Although the Dog Stinkhorn looks strange, every part of its shape has a purpose.
1. The Red Tip
This bright color attracts insects, especially flies. The fungus relies on these insects to spread its spores.
2. The Slimy Coating
The brown slime contains spores. When insects land on it, spores stick to their legs — allowing the fungus to reproduce in other places.
3. Rapid Growth
Stinkhorn mushrooms often grow in a matter of hours, popping up suddenly after rain. This fast growth makes them seem even more mysterious.
Where Is This Fungus Found?
The Dog Stinkhorn grows naturally in:
Moist forests
Mossy areas
Gardens with wood chips
Decaying leaves and mulch
Humid grassy landscapes
It is commonly found in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
If someone notices it in their garden, it usually means the soil is rich in nutrients — not that anything is wrong.
Is the Dog Stinkhorn Dangerous?
The good news: It is not dangerous.
Non-toxic to humans (though not recommended for eating)
Harmless to pets
Does not damage plants or soil
Its only downside is the unpleasant smell, which some people find offensive.
Why Does It Smell So Bad?
The Dog Stinkhorn uses smell to attract insects. Unlike flowers that use sweet scents, this fungus imitates the odor of decaying material. Flies detect the scent and land on the mushroom, unknowingly carrying its spores away.
This is the fungus’s clever survival strategy!
Should You Remove It From Your Garden?
Removing it is optional. Here’s what to consider:
Leave It If:
You don’t mind the smell
You enjoy natural biodiversity
You want healthy soil
Remove It If:
It appears near your home entrance
The smell bothers you
To remove it, simply pull it out wearing gloves and dispose of it in a sealed bag. It will eventually return unless you remove decaying wood or mulch from the soil.
Interesting Facts About the Dog Stinkhorn
It sometimes grows in groups, surprising gardeners overnight.
Insects love it, but animals usually ignore it.
It starts life inside a small white “egg” before bursting out.
Some cultures historically believed stinkhorns had magical or medicinal properties.
Conclusion
The strange, red-tipped fungus seen in the photos is not a creature or a dangerous organism — it’s simply the Dog Stinkhorn, one of nature’s most unusual mushrooms. Its weird shape, slimy coating, and strong smell make it a fascinating topic for nature lovers and a surprising sight for those who encounter it for the first time.
If you spot one in the wild, consider it a reminder of how mysterious and diverse our natural world truly is.