dog stinkhorn fungi
DESCRIPTION The family Phallaceae includes the unbranched fungi within the order Phallales. Most would say they are grotesque, but they are fascinating. These foul smelling organisms are sometimes called 'penis of the woods'. The fruiting bodies begin egg-shaped partially or fully underground. The mushroom breaks through and the spore mass (the gleba) is dispersed by flies and other insects. Outside of this family are branched and even more colorful species.
HOSTS Fungi do have hosts. Since they are not like plants they do not manufacture their own food and take nutrients from other living or decaying matter. Mulch is a very common place to find mushrooms.
CONTROL Fungal spores are everywhere. Mulch is full of them. You would have to get rid of your mulch to get rid of them permanently. Mushrooms are a part of the ecosystem and many have extensive hyphal systems that are beneficial to plant life.
