QuestionThere are groups of a bright red asparagus looking plants growing under my pine tree. I live in northern suburb of Chicago. Zone 3 I think. Is it a fungus flower?
I dug away some of the pine needles and mulch to find white pod looking things that appear to be filled with air.
We have our sump pump draining out to grass next to the tree. Are these fungus things bad? I should I get rid of them?
AnswerThere are many fungi that grow in damp places. The part of the fungi you are seeing are mushrooms or as you said the "flowers" of the fungi. These are not the mushrooms one would eat!!! They do no harm--these fungi are breaking down the natural litter layer, humus and/or soil. Which classifies them as "good" fungi!
