This is the first time I've encountered this rare species of mushroom (Artomyces pyxidatus) in my area. I've seen it in other forests far from where I live.

This particular mushroom has made its home in several Silesian forests, which I visit frequently, mainly in summer and autumn. The mushroom is very similar to a coral mushroom and is often confused with it. However, it differs from coral mushrooms, which is particularly noticeable in the tips of its arms, which resemble a candlestick. Hence the mushroom's name.

The mushroom can grow up to 15-20 cm tall. It has a bushy shape with several branches resembling a candlestick.

The color varies. It can be ochre, cream, yellow, or even orange.

The mushroom also has a small stem, up to 30 mm long, the same color as the mushroom, which is attached to the deadwood substrate.

The flesh is light yellow, whitish. It has no distinctive odor or smell. The mushroom is inedible.

The mushroom is rare and protected. It can be found as early as August and grows until late autumn. It most often grows on old, fallen, decaying deciduous trees, such as beech, poplar, linden, oak, and hornbeam. It is practically absent from coniferous trees.