ASCOMYCETES: Pezizales, sarcosomataceae
Devil’s Cup, Urnula craterium
Ascomycetes, order: Pezizales, family: Sarcosomataceae
Height to 5"
The Devil’s Cup is, as the name suggests, urn- or cup-shaped, thin, leathery, with a slightly inrolled margin. The inner, spore-producing surface is fairly smooth and dark brown or black. The outer surface is rough, grayish pink to dark gray, and sometimes hairy. The stalk is small and thin, tapering to a ragged, rooting mass. The cup begins closed and opens upon maturity. Devil’s Cup often grows in clusters in deciduous woodlands and near oaks in eastern North America during the spring. Not edible due to its unappealing texture. Also known as Crater’s Cup.