A rare fungus that grows ‘tentacles’ and smells like rotting flesh has been spotted in the New Forest.

Devil’s fingers fungus has sprouted in the national park after hatching from a slimy, gelatinous ‘egg’.

Glowing red, the plant is very eye-catching plant but is fairly rare in the UK, according to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Rare fungus Devil's finger - that smells like rotting flesh - has been spotted in the New Forest Rare fungus Devil's finger - that smells like rotting flesh - has been spotted in the New Forest (Image: Annette Gregory)

Annette Gregory, a member of the Daily Echo Camera Club, said she was “surprised” to see the fungus so early in the year.

She said: “I’ve only seen them in the last few years here in the New Forest.”

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As it grows, the tentacle-like arms start to protrude, making it easier to spot if you are in the right place at the right time.

They can often be found amongst leaf litter under trees or in parks and gardens.

The devilish flora is related to the stinkhorns and has a “strong and unpleasant” smell, which attracts insects to arms where the spores are found.

The spores are then spread by the visiting insects.

The devil’s finger fungus - known by its Latin name Clathrus archeri – is about 5cm high.

Meanwhile, its tentacles can be up to 7cm long and usually there are at least three or four tentacles.