Pyronemataceae
Pyronema omphalodes: Best for Low Light
Pyronema omphalodes
This is a specialized fungus, not a plant; it requires sterilized, recently burned substrate and extremely high humidity to thrive.
Every 2 days
Low light
15° - 25°C
70% - 95%
Categories
What is Pyronema omphalodes?
Pyronema omphalodes (Pyronema omphalodes) is a hard-care plant from the Pyronemataceae family. Pyronema omphalodes, commonly known as the charcoal cushion or bonfire fungus, is a pyrophilous ascomycete fungus. It typically appears as bright orange to salmon-colored, cushion-like masses on recently burned soil or sterilized substrates. It is a pioneer species that thrives in the alkaline, nutr...
Pyronema omphalodes grows up to 1cm, spread of 20cm, watering every 2 days, 15°C – 25°C, 70–95% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike easy-care plants, Pyronema omphalodes demands constant attention to humidity and light. Not recommended for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Pyronema omphalodes is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Pyronema omphalodes?
TLDR: Pyronema omphalodes needs Low light, watering every 2 days, and temperatures between 15-25°C with 70-95% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Pyronema omphalodes?
Keep the substrate constantly moist but not waterlogged; use a fine mist to maintain humidity.
How Much Light Does Pyronema omphalodes Need?
Avoid direct sunlight; this fungus prefers shaded, damp areas where moisture is retained in the ash.
What Is the Best Soil for Pyronema omphalodes?
Requires alkaline conditions, specifically ash-enriched soil or burnt ground.
What Pot Should You Use for Pyronema omphalodes?
Shallow trays with a mix of charcoal and sterilized soil.
Care Schedule
Misting
Every 1 days
What Is Pyronema omphalodes and Where Does It Come From?
Pyronema omphalodes, commonly known as the charcoal cushion or bonfire fungus, is a pyrophilous ascomycete fungus. It typically appears as bright orange to salmon-colored, cushion-like masses on recently burned soil or sterilized substrates. It is a pioneer species that thrives in the alkaline, nutrient-rich environment created by fire, often appearing within weeks of a burn.
How to Propagate Pyronema omphalodes?
Spore Dispersal
- The substrate must be alkaline (high pH) for successful growth.
- 1 Substrate Preparation
Sterilize soil or use fresh wood ash and charcoal from a recent fire.
- 2 Inoculation
Introduce spores from a mature specimen onto the damp, alkaline substrate.
- 3 Incubation
Maintain near 100% humidity and moderate temperatures until orange cushions appear.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Pyronema omphalodes Grow?
TLDR: Pyronema omphalodes can reach up to 1cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1cm
Spread
20cm
Growth rate
Fast
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents rebirth and the cycle of life following destruction.
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sticky false asphodel | Hard | Bright indirect | 1d | ✓ |
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| Bulbous Adder's-tongue | Hard | Partial shade | 4d | ✓ |
| Crystal Anthurium | Hard | Partial shade | 7d | ⚠️ |
