Pyronemataceae
Cushion Cup Fungus: Best for Low Light
Pulvinula
As a fungus, Pulvinula requires extremely high humidity and specific organic substrates rather than traditional plant care. It thrives in damp, shaded environments with minimal light.
Every 2 days
Low light
15° - 25°C
80% - 100%
Categories
What is Cushion Cup Fungus?
Cushion Cup Fungus (Pulvinula) is a hard-care plant from the Pyronemataceae family. Pulvinula is a genus of small, cup-shaped fungi in the family Pyronemataceae. These fungi are typically characterized by their bright orange to reddish apothecia (fruiting bodies) and their preference for growing on burnt soil or among mosses. They are microscopic in detail, often requiring a lens t...
Cushion Cup Fungus grows up to 1cm, spread of 10cm, watering every 2 days, 15°C – 25°C, 80–100% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike easy-care plants, Cushion Cup Fungus demands constant attention to humidity and light. Not recommended for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Cushion Cup Fungus is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Cushion Cup Fungus?
TLDR: Cushion Cup Fungus needs Low light, watering every 2 days, and temperatures between 15-25°C with 80-100% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Cushion Cup Fungus?
Use a fine mister to keep the surrounding moss saturated without disturbing the fungal structure.
How Much Light Does Cushion Cup Fungus Need?
Keep in deep shade; direct sunlight will quickly desiccate the delicate fruiting bodies.
What Is the Best Soil for Cushion Cup Fungus?
Requires a substrate rich in bryophytes (mosses) or recently charred organic matter.
What Pot Should You Use for Cushion Cup Fungus?
Terrarium or glass enclosure to maintain near-saturation humidity levels.
Care Schedule
Misting
Every 1 days
What Is Cushion Cup Fungus and Where Does It Come From?
Pulvinula is a genus of small, cup-shaped fungi in the family Pyronemataceae. These fungi are typically characterized by their bright orange to reddish apothecia (fruiting bodies) and their preference for growing on burnt soil or among mosses. They are microscopic in detail, often requiring a lens to appreciate their pulvinate (cushion-like) form.
How to Propagate Cushion Cup Fungus?
Spore Dispersal
- Ensure the substrate remains consistently damp but not flooded.
- Sterility is key to prevent mold competition.
- 1 Spore Collection
Place a mature fruiting body on a glass slide to collect a spore print.
- 2 Substrate Preparation
Prepare a sterilized mix of moss and organic forest soil.
- 3 Inoculation
Introduce spores into the substrate and maintain 90%+ humidity.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Cushion Cup Fungus Grow?
TLDR: Cushion Cup Fungus can reach up to 1cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
1cm
Spread
10cm
Growth rate
Medium
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
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Meaning & Symbolism
Represents the hidden beauty of the forest floor and ecological resilience.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sticky false asphodel | Hard | Bright indirect | 1d | ✓ |
| Creeping bentgrass | Hard | Direct sun | 3d | ✓ |
| Bulbous Adder's-tongue | Hard | Partial shade | 4d | ✓ |
| Crystal Anthurium | Hard | Partial shade | 7d | ⚠️ |
