British authorities have issued a warning about “Devil’s Fingers”, a rare fungus that smells like rotting flesh and looks like a hand emerging from the grave, which was recently discovered in a UK nature park.
The mushroom was nicknamed “Devil’s Fingers” because of its appearance PHOTO @27Tawnyowl / X
This alien-like mushroom has been nicknamed “Devil’s Fingers” because of its creepy, hand-like appearance, writes the Daily Mail.
Moreover, it gives off a disgusting smell, described as “as of rotten flesh.”
Julia Rosser, a 67-year-old retired teacher who discovered it, said: “This looked more like a hand than any other I have ever seen. It seemed to extend beyond the grave. He looked very scary.”
“Devil’s Fingers” usually appears in late October, but was seen earlier this year due to the wet weather.
Rosser said: “I found ‘Devil’s Fingers’ in about the same area last year, so I was on the lookout for them. They come out of the ground with these red tentacles or fingers.”
What is Devil’s Fingers Mushroom
Native to New Zealand and Australia, the mushroom is believed to have been brought to France during World War I as military supplies.
“The species is native to the southern hemisphere and was first discovered in Britain in 1914”the Wildlife Trusts explained.
The mushroom comes out of a “egg” gelatinous and slippery, and as it grows, tentacle-like arms begin to emerge.
Although its bright red color makes it easy to spot, it is quite rare in the UK.
“About 5cm tall, tentacles can be up to 7cm long”the Wildlife Trusts added.
“Usually there are at least 3 or 4 tentacles. It is often found among fallen leaves, under trees, in parks and gardens.”
