Have you ever noticed a bright orange fungus growing on a tree stump in your yard or neighborhood? While visually striking this growth is actually a natural occurrence that is harmless to trees. Let’s explore what causes this orange fungus and why it frequently pops up on stumps.
What Is Orange Fungus on Tree Stumps?
The orange fungus commonly seen on tree stumps is scientifically known as Chlorociboria sp It is a type of sac fungus that often colonizes the dead wood of hardwood tree stumps and logs after a tree has been cut down
This fungus manifests as a powdery orange mold or growth on the decaying wood. The vibrant orange color comes from a high concentration of the pigment xylindein that this fungus produces. As the stump decays, the xylindein is exposed, creating brilliant orange patches on the dead wood.
While visually dramatic with its bright orange hues, this fungus is a natural part of the decomposition process. It plays an important ecological role by helping break down lignin and cellulose in the dead wood, returning nutrients to the soil.
What Causes This Orange Fungus to Grow?
The main factor leading to growth of orange fungus on tree stumps is moisture. The fungus thrives in damp humid conditions often found in shaded areas where tree stumps are left.
Its development coincides with rising sap levels in nearby living trees in late winter and early spring. The sugars and moisture from the sap provide an ideal food source for the orange fungus.
Wounds or damaged areas on tree stumps also promote fungal growth by allowing entry points for spores. The fungus colonizes the exposed dead wood inside the stump as it slowly decays.
Is Orange Fungus on Stumps Harmful?
While alarming in appearance, the orange fungus is actually harmless to living trees and plants nearby. It colonizes and feeds only on dead wood, not spreading to living tissue.
Some key facts about orange stump fungus:
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It does not damage or infect the roots, trunk, or foliage of living trees. The fungus remains contained to the dead stump.
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It poses no threat to the health of nearby vegetation. The fungus has not been found to harm plants or crops.
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It does not grow on or affect houses, decks, fences or other wooden structures. The fungus only colonizes exposed dead wood.
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It is not hazardous to humans or pets. There are no toxic effects from touching or ingesting this fungus.
So while this orange growth may look concerning, it is simply a natural decomposer finishing off the dead wood of a stump and does not present any risks.
Tips for Managing Orange Stump Fungus
To reduce the spread of orange fungus, here are some management tips:
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Remove stumps completely after cutting down trees to eliminate potential food sources. Grinding or extracting the stump prevents fungal colonization.
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Keep moisture off of any remaining stumps by diverting rain runoff and sprinklers away from the area. The fungus thrives in damp conditions.
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Apply a fungicide spray labeled for wood decay fungi to stump surfaces to deter growth. Always follow label directions carefully.
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Increase air circulation around stumps by selective pruning or thinning of nearby plants to promote faster drying.
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Cover cut stump tops with plastic to create a moisture barrier between the wet ground and exposed wood.
By following these guidelines, you can minimize development of the orange fungus and promote faster decay of any unwanted stumps on your property. But in most cases this colorful fungus is harmless, leaving your living trees unaffected. Consider allowing it to develop as a fascinating display of nature at work!
The orange fungus commonly seen consuming the wood of tree stumps is caused by a group of fungi appropriately named Chlorociboria or “green-yellow sphere”. While initially unsettling, this fungus poses no threat to living trees or plants. It simply finishes breaking down the dead stump through natural decomposition processes.
Now that you understand this orange growth is harmless, you can enjoy its unique beauty as a temporary display of nature’s endless creativity. Next time you notice it in your yard or neighborhood, take a moment to appreciate the amazing palette of colors produced by fungi performing their important ecological roles.
SERIES 35 | Episode 20
After a tree has been cut down in a garden, you will often see fungi growing on the stump.
Should you be concerned about this?
Jerry advises that yes – this can be a problem.
While the top of the tree has been cut down, the ‘hidden half’ of the tree – the huge network of roots underground – is still there. And with it are many types of fungi that go unseen until they produce the reproductive bodies – the bits we see above ground as mushrooms or other fungi.
One of the fungi on the tree is bracket type – a half-circle growing from the side of the bark – and Jerry says this Ganoderma sp. is one of three types of fungi that are a concern in a garden. The other two are Phellinus sp. and Armillaria sp., and all three live on trees and woody shrubs.
They digest the decaying wood, so they will follow the tissue along the roots. A large tree’s root system will provide decades of food for fungi.
If the fungus meets roots from other trees and shrubs in the soil, it can go from being a digester of dying material to an aggressor of living tissue.
Removing the stump helps reduce the amount of fuel available to fungi and will help protect your living woody plants against potential attack.
Featured Species |
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Ganoderma sp. |
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Armillaria sp. |
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Phellinus sp. |
Orange fungi on old tree stump – November 2022
FAQ
What is the orange stuff coming out of my tree stump?
It’s normally referred to as ‘Stump Flux‘. It’s a colony of microfungi/yeasts and bacteria feeding on tree sap. It has nothing to do with slimemold. When it is colored orange like this the fungus Fusicolla merismoides is often a major part of the colony.
Is orange fungus on wood poisonous?
One of the most alarming aspects of orange mold is that it produces mycotoxins, which are toxic substances and can lead to more severe health problems if …
What causes orange fungus on trees?
This fungus, known as Fusicolla merismoides, colonizes the sap that leaks from a tree’s wound, giving it an orange color. While it may look concerning, this orange slime is harmless and does not harm the tree’s wood or foliage. This fungus thrives in the spring when the sap is rising and leaking from wounds on tree trunks or limbs.
What is orange fungus on wood?
This is a fungus or a complex of fungi and yeast that colonize the sap that leaks from a tree wound. The primary fungus involved that gives this slime its orange color is Fusicolla merismoides (formerly called Fusarium merismoides). Is orange fungus on wood poisonous?
What is orange fungus on stumps?
Orange fungus on stumps is an innocuous, often transient wood decomposer. Although visually dramatic, it remains localized on dead tissue without spreading. In most cases, admire it as a unique display of nature at work! Fungal successions like this orange mold play essential roles in recycling nutrients and adding biodiversity to your landscape.
What fungus grows on tree stumps?
Many types of fungi can be found growing on tree stumps. Here are some of the most common: Turkey tail – Colorful bands of brown, gray, and orange; leaf-like and thin. Reishi – Large with a reddish-orange fan shape and woody texture. Artist’s conk – A bracket fungus with brown top and white underside you can draw on.
Are orange slime fungi dangerous?
The orange slime fungi are simply growing on the carbohydrates (sugars) and moisture in the sap, but they do not cause diseases of the tree’s wood or foliage. These fungi thrive in the spring as the sap is rising and leaking from wounds on tree trunks or limbs. What is an orange fungus?
What fungus grows on oak stumps?
Chicken of the woods – Bright orange or yellow shelves in clusters on oak stumps. Wood ear – Jelly-like fungus that is brown, ear-shaped, and gelatinous. Coral fungus – Resembles aquatic coral with branching arms, often bright colors. Use shape, texture, color, and stump location to accurately identify the fungus.