Devils fingers fungus Clathrus archeri

While in the New Forest with some friends recently, I was shown some devils fingers (Clathrus archeri) fungi.

Also known as the octopus stinkhorn, is not a native species to the UK or Europe (where it is also found), but originates from Australia and New Zealand. It was first found in Cornwall in 1946, and appears to be spreading, having now been found in locations across southern England, in particular sites with wood chip mulch present.

This species gives of a nasty smell, like the native British stinkhorn species to which it is related, the purpose of which is to attract flies which will then disperse its spores.

References
Kew Gardens website: Clathrus archeri (devil’s fingers)