Why does the Devil’s fingers fungus smell so much like decay?

Gardening · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Discover the strange world of Clathrus archeri. Kew mycologists explain the origins of its monstrous appearance and the biological reason behind its notorious, foul stench.

In this Halloween special, Kew curators Issy, Lee, and Finn explore the bizarre characteristics of Clathrus arch tributum, commonly known as Devil’s fingers, octopus stinkhorn, or squid fungus. The video investigates why this species earns such unsettling names and examines the mechanics of its unpleasant odor, alongside an introduction to other stinkhorn species.

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