Devil's Cigar

Chorioactis geaster

The Devil's Cigar is a unique mushroom that looks like a little cigar! It’s quite rare and has a funny shape that makes it special.

Habitat: Woodlands and forests

Appearance

The Devil's Cigar is a striking fungus that starts as a dark, fuzzy cigar-shaped club. It dramatically splits open into a star-like flower shape, revealing a pale to reddish-brown interior. This unique transformation sets it apart visually.

KingdomFungiPhylumAscomycotaClassPezizomycetesOrderPezizalesFamilyChorioactidaceaeGenusChorioactis

Devil's Cigar

Interesting facts

It's the only known fungus to make an audible hissing sound when releasing its spores!

Scientists still don't fully understand the amazing mechanics behind its loud spore puff.

Sometimes it's called the 'Texas Star fungus' because of its unique look and location!

This rare fungus is only found in very specific parts of the world, like Texas and Japan.

Special abilities

Devil's Cigar can release its dark brown spores with an audible puff or hiss, helping them spread far and wide.

Devil's Cigar has a tough, leathery outer layer that splits open into a star shape, protecting its inner spore mass.

Measurements & details

Height: 5-15 cm
Edibility: inedible
Cap Diameter: 10-30 cm
Growth Substrate: wood
Season: Fall and winter
Spore Color: Dark brown

Ecological connections

depends on

Live Oak

Quercus virginiana

Grows on dead or decaying logs of this tree species.

depends on

Giant Stag Beetle

Lucanus elaphus

Its larvae feed on decaying wood, sharing the fungus's habitat.

eats

Hairy Fungus Beetle

Typhaea stercorea

Feeds on various fungi found on decaying wood.

Traits

Night Blooming

These mysterious flowers wait until the sun goes down to open their petals, filling the evening air with their enchanting beauty and fragrance.

Spore Producing

Discover how some plants and fungi create tiny little "seeds" called spores to help them grow new life! These tiny particles drift in the air, spreading new generations far and wide.