Dead Man's Fingers (Xylaria polymorpha) actually represents a collection of several species of mushrooms (that can only be distinguished microscopically).
It is an odd-shaped fungus that belongs to the class of fungi known as the Ascomycetes or Sac Fungi. This group is characterized by the Ascus -- a specialized, microscopic sexual structure.
The morel, truffle, brewer's / baker's yeast are also members of this class of fungi. As is the fungi Penicillium from which the antibiotic is derived. On a down note, members of this class of fungi are responsible for various Apple Blights and Dutch Elm Disease.
Dead Man's Fingers is a saprobic fungus, meaning that is grows of rotting or decaying wood.
Like elongated dying fingers rising from the ground, this fungi starts out white, turn pale blue and then finally black.
