Question
I have discovered this fungus in a few places around my yard, especially around my maple tree and in another flower bed that has wood chip mulch; I read another forum on this site:

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Plant-Diseases-715/2008/8/Maple-Trees.htm

which says that it is helpful to use a mixture of boiling water and bleach, however I'm wondering if this mixture will harm my tree and other nearby plants? My tree is less than a foot away from this fungus...and in my other flower bed I have Cal Lilies that are very close to this fungus.  Also, this tree has not been doing well...about a week ago the leaves looked like they were dying, could this nasty fungi be the cause?

Answer
Ashley:
This stinkhorn fungi (several types)are not harmful to plants. It may seem to "pop" up overnight, especially under warm and humid/wet conditions- like after a rain. I would steer clear of using bleach around plants- just pull up or mow these things off.  They grow in association with organic matter in the soil/flower bed.  The "Dog Stinkhorn" like several others have a TERRIBLE odor that serves to attract flies that disseminate its spores, so just bag it and dispose of it - well away from from your home!

Steve