Artomyces pyxidatus (Кораловий гриб)

Artomyces pyxidatus is a coral fungus that is commonly called crown coral or crown-tipped coral fungus. Its most characteristic feature is the crown-like shape of the tips of its branches. Coral fungi can be observed throughout Northern Canada during the growing season. In Britain, it was recorded in 2011, almost 116 years after its previous reliable report, a collection made by mycologist Carleton Reale on 20 October 1886. It is widespread but uncommon in Western Europe. The fungus produces its hard, coral-like fruiting bodies on growing wood. Basidia and basidiospores are produced on the surfaces of the branches. These fungi are considered edible when raw, although some people may experience gastrointestinal upset, especially after eating a large quantity. The raw fruiting bodies have a peppery taste that usually disappears when cooked, writes in Wiki.

In Ukraine, this mushroom does not seem to be so rare as I found it quite often and if I wanted, I could bring it several baskets. However, I still do not take this mushroom, although I already know that it is edible, apparently because of its bizarre appearance. However, this mushroom has a very nice mushroom odor, so it may be delicious after cooking. Maybe I'll try to cook it some day.

These photos were taken near the village of Rosokhy, in the Starosambirskyj district of Lviv region.