An article by Joan Epler for Master Gardener
The two fungi in this picture are growing on mulch in my garden, The one that resembles a penis is commonly called stink horn mushroom and belongs appropriately to the fungal order Phallales. In the mature state here, which lasts about a day, the end of the stalk gives off the foul smell of carrion or dung which attracts flies and other insects. Since the spores
(reproductive cells in fungi) are located on the tip the insects act as spore dispersers when the spores stick
to their body parts. In the foreground are a few bird’s nest fungi. The “eggs” hold the spore cases and the
nest acts as a splash cup. When rain drops fall into the cup the spores are splashed out. Both these fungi have really special adaptations to ensure that the species carries on. Do not destroy them. Most fungi are
saprophytic which means they get their nourishment by decomposing dead organisms. As such they are beneficial because in the process of decomposition they make nutrients available for plants. The visible
structures of most fungi, for example mushroom stalks and caps, are the reproductive structures. Unless they are growing on something that is important to you leave them alone.
