Beech Woodwart (Hypoxylon fragiforme) -- Habitat, Season & Foraging Guide

Habitat

Woodland

This species grows in large, dense clusters on the dead wood of beech trees. It is typically found on bark, logs, and stumps.

Fruit body: Small, hard, and hemispherical structures measuring 0.1 to 1 centimeter across. They resemble strawberries or carbon balls with a notably bumpy, finely warted surface. Initially bright salmon-pink, they mature to a brick-red color and eventually turn black.
Flesh: Hard, carbon-like, and blackish in color.
Spore print: Dark brown.

Plan ahead with 10-day forecasts, see what people are finding nearby, get photo IDs, and track your finds.

Not edible

Misidentification can be fatal. Never eat a mushroom unless you're 100% sure. This information may be inaccurate. Always consult multiple sources.

Saprotrophic

It obtains nutrients by decomposing dead wood, primarily from beech trees.