Stumbled across these black, finger-like things poking out of the mulch in my backyard. They are hard and creepy. Does anyone know what this is?

The texture of these growths is hard and woody when mature, adding to their creepy allure. Their transformation from a soft, whitish or pale structure to a rigid, blackened form contributes to their macabre reputation. The stark contrast between these fungi and the surrounding mulch or soil can make them stand out even more, drawing attention and sparking curiosity.
2. Meet Dead Man’s Fingers: The Fungus Lurking in Your Mulch
Dead Man’s Fingers, scientifically known as Xylaria polymorpha, is a saprobic fungus, meaning it feeds on decaying organic matter. This