About Clavariadelphus pistillaris (L.) Donk
This species, scientifically named Clavariadelphus pistillaris (L.) Donk, has club-shaped fruiting bodies with rounded tops that have a matted, wrinkled texture. Fruiting bodies range from 6 to 30 centimetres (2+1⁄2 to 12 inches) in length, and 0.8 to 6 centimetres (1⁄4 to 2+1⁄4 inches) in width. The outer surface of the fruiting body is colored red-brown to ocher red, sometimes appearing cinnamon brown with a lilac tint, and turns brown when damaged. The spongy internal flesh is white, the spore print is pale yellow, and the species produces a weak but pleasant scent. This rare species is native to Europe and North America, and fruits during summer and autumn. It grows almost exclusively in beech forests on calcareous soil, among litter and woodchips. The species is recorded as edible. It has been reported to act as a nutraceutical and/or functional food due to its high antioxidant activity and content of essential fatty acids. According to one field guide, the americana variety of this species usually does not produce enough flesh to make eating it worthwhile.
