Auricularia auricula-judae, commonly known as Jelly Ear, is a distinctive and widely recognised fungus, notable for its ear-like shape and gelatinous texture. Typically found on dead or living elder trees in temperate regions, this rubbery, brownish fungus often grows in clusters, especially during damp conditions. Its soft, flexible fruiting body ranges from pale brown to dark reddish-brown, resembling a human ear in both form and texture.

Fruiting body ear-shaped or occasionally cup-like with a soft, lobed appearance, this fungus has a tough, gelatinous texture that is elastic when fresh but becomes hard and brittle when dry. The outer surface is reddish-brown to tan with a purplish tint and covered in a fine greyish down, giving it a velvety feel. It may be smooth in younger specimens or develop folds and wrinkles with age, often becoming darker. The underside is lighter grey-brown, smooth or subtly veined, and sometimes gently wrinkled, further enhancing its ear-like resemblance. Spore print white.

Microscopic Features: Spores are sausage shaped (allantoid), 16-18 x 6-8µm.

Auricularia auricula-judae on the First Nature Web site.