I keep digging up these fungus-like growths in my vegie patch. What are they?

Janne Fowler, Harcourt, Vic

MARTYN ROBINSON SAYS This is called cup fungus, and it has relatives that are usually found on the surface. Due to its unusual way of life, and the fact that relatively few fungus specialists in Australia have had anything to do with fungi that weren’t important agriculturally, this species has been named twice. It was named Hydnoplicata convoluta in 1896, then forgotten about before being re-named Peziza whitei in 1954. Its original name was recently reinstated. As a result, information is available under both names. It should not cause any problems in the garden, other than surprising you when you dig it up. I wouldn’t recommend eating it though!