I’m not sure how many times I’ve seen a YouTube video or watched a documentary and been struck, frankly, by how unvarnished and terrible nature can be.

It’s true that a lot of us don’t know much about the world we live in, but that’s okay because it’s a large globe.

Though some people might find it unsettling, I believe it’s equally critical to keep in mind that the world’s numerous undiscovered wonders are what make this enormous rock that we all call home so extraordinary. A little monotonous, wouldn’t it, if everyone had the same appearance and behavior?

Admittedly, I’m naturally curious to anything “wild,” so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that a particular video on the intriguing Octopus stinkhorn type of fungus drew my attention.

It has a highly unique appearance and is also known as the “devil’s fingers.” Its journey to maturity is equally interesting.

Credit / Flickr – Bernard Spragg

You’re not alone if, before reading this essIf you see this growing in your garden, here’s what it actually isay, you were unaware that this fungus even existed!

The fungus is said to have originated in Australia and New Zealand, although it is currently present throughout North America and Europe.

This unusual fungus forms into several long, pink arms after appearing to grow from what appears to be a cracked egg (although it is not).

When the Octopus stinkhorn fungus reaches maturity, it is said to release the stench of rotting flesh, which is much more unsettling than its appearance! This is believed to be an evolutionary strategy to draw flies, who act as agents for the disposal of spores.