Orange Spine Fungus (Hydnellum aurantiacum group) is a mycorrhizal mushroom that grows in association with conifers (eastern hemlock in this case) and occasionally hardwoods. It is tough and fleshy like a Polypore, but has little teeth/spines under the expanding fused plate like caps that disperse spores. It is inedibly bitter but can be used to dye fabrics shades of grey-green depending on the mordant used. The orange color comes from auranticin, a dark red pigment also found in other Hydnellum

Woodlands in the beautiful Manifold Valley in Staffordshire are being threatened by Ash Dieback disease. However, the National Trust is planting new trees and clearing some areas to help boost biodiversity. | BBC Birmingham