Oudemansiella mucida Porcelain Fungus

A common species which grows on the trunks and branches of Beech (Fagus sylvatica). The slimy, ivory white caps which become duller and more beige in colour as they age, often occur in striking clusters. It seems to live saprophytically on non-living parts of the tree and it is rarely parasitic (and then only weakly) so causes no or little harm directly. It produces potent antifungal compounds called strobilurins, which inhibit the growth of other competitive fungi. It is common and widespread in beech forests in West Glamorgan.

Also known as Mucidula mucida.