Jelly ear

Overview

Jelly ear develops from a small cup into a tough, ear-shaped fruiting body attached to wood along one edge. Its upper surface bears fine down, while the fertile underside can be smooth or veined. Pinkish and purplish browns are typical, although individual fruiting bodies vary considerably in colour.

This fungus grows on the wood of deciduous trees and shrubs, especially elder, and may be encountered throughout the year. Dry fruiting bodies darken and become horn-like, then recover their shape after wetting. Young cups can resemble Peziza fungi; their tougher texture and the position of the fertile surface provide useful distinctions.

Origins & earliest records

Deciduous wood

Evidence & interpretation

Published account.

Selected bibliography

Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.

1. 01

   Jelly Ear Fungus

   NatureSpot

Family & connections

A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.

References

Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.

1. Species accountJelly Ear FungusResearch access: 2026-10-18

Image credits

AI-generated fruiting-body study.

Interpretation; not an exact specimen.