fungus among us?

[dgweston]

I saw a couple patches of this cool-looking...uhm...fungus? Photo taken 7/22/2017 Salmon River Trail. Anyone know what it is?

[BigBear]

It's not fungus, it's pine sap (Monotropa hypopitys).

[dgweston]

Ohhhhh, thanks. I didn't see a stem or stalk or anything, it was all mounded on the ground. But maybe it's just an early stage or some species I haven't been able to find online. Otherwise, I see many similar photos now that you've given me something to search for. Thank you!!

[bobcat]

Actually, it's gnome plant (Hemitomes congestum). There is a connection to fungi as well: gnome plants are fungus parasites.

[adamschneider]

Yeah, gnome plant is a weird one. I've only seen it once, in the Olympics. It can also be pink.

[dgweston]

Wow, beautiful. It seems I lucked out then, to see it. Such an interesting plant!

[dgweston]

Oh and Bobcat- thank you!! I spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to figure it out. So glad you are game to share your expertise!