Dyer's Polypore, Phaeolus schweinitzii, a fungus that helps decompose wood, has emerged in the same place we spotted it last year. This year it fruited a month later than in 2011.

It's only two inches across now but it will grow in the days to come. Here's a link to how it looked last year after it grew for several weeks: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/08/26/dyers-polypore-a-wild-mushroom-continues-to-evolve-continues-to-fascinate/  This fascinating mushroom can be used to dye fabric. Depending on the age of the mushroom, the color will be orange, yellow, golden or brown.

It is a harbinger of autumn, just a little late this year!