Witches' butter
Exidia nigricans
A species of Exidia.
Exidia nigricans, also known as Witches' butter, is a species of fungus that decays wood and can be observed year-round. Its common name comes from its buttery texture when moist and its dark hue. It predominantly grows on decaying hardwood trees.
Attributes of Witches' butter
Cap Diameter
5 - 20 mm
Cap
Around 2 cm across; rubbery-gelatinous, button-shaped; dark sepia to blackish; shiny, dotted with small pimples or pegs
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
BrownBlackBronze
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
Dead Woods
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed in the northern hemisphere
Endangered Species
No
Scientific Classification of Witches' butter
Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Auriculariales
Family
Auriculariaceae
Genus
Exidia
Toxicity and Edibility of Witches' butter
Is Witches' butter Toxic?
Toxicity information is not available for this mushroom. Always consult with an expert before consuming any wild mushrooms.
Is Witches' butter Toxic to Dogs?
Witches' butter can be dangerous to dogs. If your pet has consumed this mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms may vary, but early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.
