Dead Man's Fingers

I first learned of them in a nature journaling class a few years ago.  I found these under the hemlock at the base of a red maple tree stump that had been cut down in our backyard several years ago.

From Purdue Plant Doctor
"Xylaria polymorpha is an opportunistic fungus that grows on dead wood, but will attack the stressed tree. It causes a soft rot that quickly damages and kills woody tissue and seems to prefer (but is not limited to!) maple, beech, oak, honey-locust, sassafras, elm, and apple. However, it is sometimes encountered just growing in mulch."  In early spring they're covered by an umbrella of pale spores, then change appearance throughout the year.  Toxic.  


And in case you're wondering, I assure you that Mr Mole is alive and well.