Biological and taxonomic aspects of Xylaria polymorpha and the closely related taxa X. schweinitzii, X. grandis, and X. scruposa are discussed with particular reference to their occurrence and activities in continental United States. Xylaria polymorpha is frequently encountered east of the Rocky Mountains and is rare in the Rocky Mountain and far western states. Xylaria schweinitzii and X. grandis have rarely been collected and X. scruposa is apparently unknown from continental United States. Cultural and anamorphic features of X. polymorpha and X. schweinitzii are discussed. Key Words:
