Autumn in the woods near Cranbrook, Kent, brings a distinct scent of decay, but one fungus stands out for its pungent aroma and unusual appearance. The common stinkhorn, scientifically named Phallus impudicus or 'shameless phallus', emits a smell of rotting flesh that attracts flies, which then spread its spores.
Despite its off-putting odour, the stinkhorn is edible, though rarely appreciated. When eaten in its immature 'witch's egg' stage, it offers a radish-like flavour. However, the author finds the mature fungus more exciting: dried and ground, it can replace aged beef in vegan dishes, adding depth of flavour through its decomposition essence.
This solitary specimen was left to spread its spores, as the author moved on to find other fungi for the table that the family might actually eat. The stinkhorn remains a bizarre but fascinating part of the autumn woodland.
