Dead Man's Fingers

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These photos show one of the species of Xylaria, many of which are commonly known as dead man's fingers.
These specimens were found growing at the base of a dead silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens) shrub.
For more information on this genus visit MushroomExpert.com. Also a wealth of information can be found at Xylariaphilia.

Kingdom: Fungi
   |
   |--Phylum: Ascomycota – Sac fungi
          |
          |--Class: Ascomycetes or Lecanoromycetes
                |
                |--Order: Xylariales
                      |
                      |--Family: Xylariaceae
                            |
                            |--Genus: Xylaria
                                   |--Xylaria sp. - DEAD MAN'S FINGERS