Artomyces Pyxidatus

Artomyces pyxidatus, commonly called the crown-tipped coral, is a wood-decaying coral fungus named for the small ring or 'crown' of points that tips each of its repeatedly forking branches. It grows in clusters directly on decaying hardwood logs and branches in temperate forests across North America, Europe, and Asia, typically appearing from late spring through autumn. Its pale, intricately branched fruiting body is a distinctive sight on rotting wood.

History

The species was first described by Christiaan Hendrik Persoon in 1796. It was long classified in the genus Clavicorona as Clavicorona pyxidata before being transferred to Artomyces. It is placed in the family Auriscalpiaceae within the order Russulales, alongside other tooth and coral fungi, rather than among the true clavarioid corals it superficially resembles.

Overview

Artomyces pyxidatus is a saprotroph that fruits on dead hardwood, contributing to wood decomposition and forest nutrient cycling. It is recognized chiefly by its crown-tipped branch endings and its habit of growing on wood. The fungus is generally considered edible when young and firm, with a mild and sometimes slightly peppery or sour flavor, though it is valued more as a foraging curiosity than as a major culinary species. It is not cultivated commercially and has no well-established medicinal use.