Microglossum rufum

Scientific name: Microglossum rufum (Schwein.)
Underw.
Derivation of name: Ruf- means "rufous" or "reddish" which is
odd considering this fungus is typically yellowish to orangish.  
Synonyms: Geoglossum rufum Schwein. 
Common name(s):  Orange earth tongue; Yellow earth tongue.
Phylum:   Ascomycota
Order:   Geoglossales
Family:   Geoglossaceae
Occurrence on wood substrate:  Saprobic; scattered to
clustered in moss, rotten logs, and humus; July through
September. 
Dimensions:  Up to 6 cm tall.   
Description: These orange to yellow fungi consist of a
roughened stalk and a distinctly compressed, longitudinally
furrowed, or spoon-shaped head.        
Edibility:  Unknown.
Comments: This species is sometimes confused with
Cordyceps militaris. C. militaris, however, has dark
orange bumps (i.e., perithecia necks) embedded in the
orangish head and if dug up carefully, will be found
attached to the larva of a butterfly or moth.

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Figure 1. Microglossum rufum is often terrestrial as
pictured here but will grow on well-decayed wood.
Photo © David Work.

Figure 2. Yellow earth tongues growing in moss. Note the
compressed or furrowed heads. Photo © William Roody

Figure 3. The stalks of this fungus are often scurfy or
granular. Photo © George Barron.