132 FLOWERLESS PLANTS 



is typical of the familj' to which it belongs, the 

 HydnacecB. Here the distinguishing feature is 

 that on the under side of the cap where the 

 spores are produced there are quantities of 

 sharp spines. In the Theleplioracece the spore- 

 bearing surface is absolutely smooth. In hazel 

 copses the "Horn of Plenty" {Craterelliis cor- 

 nucopioides) is often found, and this is a good 

 example of the famil3^ 



Another family which can hardly fail to 

 attract special attention is the ClavariacecB. 

 Here the spore production is on ver}^ similar 

 lines to that which is noticeable in the Thele- 

 fhoracea; ; but the general character of the 

 fungi is very different. As a rule, the plants 

 are club-shaped, and often are much branched. 

 Some of the species belonging to the genus 

 Clavaria are most singular in appearance, and 

 somewhat resemble besom brooms. A very 

 common kind belonging to this famih' is the 

 white-tipped " Fair}' Club," Clavaria luteoalha. 

 This is in the form of a small j-ellow club 

 tipped with white, and is abundant amongst 

 grass. Another species which is not uncommon 

 in certain districts is the Besom Fungus 

 [Clavaria strida). 



