Daldinia

Daldinia is a genus of fungi in the family Xylariaceae, within the order Xylariales of the class Sordariomycetes. Members of this genus are saprotrophic and typically grow on dead or decaying wood, forming crust-like fruiting bodies that are often embedded in the surface of the host wood.

The best-known species is Daldinia concentrica, commonly called the king Alfred’s cake or coal fungus. It produces dark, charcoal‑like crusts on hardwood logs or stumps, sometimes found on charred or recently burned wood. The fruiting bodies are crusty and may show concentric coloration or zonation; internally, they house asci and perithecia that generate ascospores.

Ecology and habitat: Daldinia species are primarily saprotrophs that contribute to the decomposition of dead wood. They are frequently found on hardwoods such as beech, ash, and poplar, and some species are noted on burned wood or charcoal, where they can persist after fire.

Distribution: The genus has a temperate distribution and is recorded across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Species diversity is higher in regions with abundant dead hardwood substrate, though individual species may have narrower ranges.

Identification and notes: Daldinia spp. are often distinguished by their crust-like, dark fruiting bodies and their habit of growing directly on wood surfaces. They are of interest to mycologists and naturalists as examples of wood-decay fungi and for their distinctive macroscopic appearance.

See also: List of Daldinia species, Xylariaceae, wood-decay fungi.