Beech Woodwart

Hypoxylon fragiforme

Beech Woodwart is a common species of sac fungus generating spores within a microscopic, sac-like structure called an ascus. This species forms small, irregularly hemispherical cushions or warts that can vary in colour from brick-red to rusty-brown. The fruiting bodies can reach a width of about 15 mm and have a solid, carbonaceous black interior. It is a saprobic fungus that derives nutrients from dead organic matter and is commonly found growing in clusters on dead or fallen beech wood.