At first glance, a stinkhorn fungus may look like an unusual egg buried in the soil. This is actually its immature stage, where the future mushroom is already formed inside a protective outer layer. The fungus can remain in this stage for days or even weeks before suddenly beginning its transformation. Once the outer layer breaks open, the change can happen incredibly quickly.

A stinkhorn can grow several inches in just **1–2 hours**, making it one of the fastest-growing fungi. What appears to happen suddenly is actually the rapid expansion of a structure that was already developing inside the “egg.” This remarkable transformation is one of the strangest sights found in nature.

The strong smell is not accidental. Mature stinkhorns produce a slimy substance called gleba, which smells similar to rotting meat. This unpleasant odor attracts flies and other insects. When they land on the fungus, spores stick to them and are carried to new locations, helping the fungus reproduce. As the original article explains, **“It’s actually a brilliant evolutionary adaptation.”**

Despite their unusual appearance and terrible smell, stinkhorns are generally **not toxic or harmful to lawns and plants**. They are decomposers that break down dead organic material and contribute to healthy soil. Common varieties include the Common Stinkhorn, Lattice Stinkhorn, and Dog Stinkhorn.

If you discover one in your yard, you can simply leave it alone, as it will usually disappear naturally within a few days. If the smell bothers you, you can dig it up and remove it. Reducing excessive mulch and buried wood may also help prevent them from appearing. Rather than being something to fear, a stinkhorn is a fascinating example of how creative and unusual nature can be.