Clavulinaceae comprise a group of clavarioid basidiomycetes producing simple clubs, flattened or compressed forms, or intricately branched coralloid fruitbodies. Colours range from white and pale cream to violet, pink, yellow, or orange, depending on genus and species. The hymenium covers the entire outer surface of the fruitbody. Fruitbodies are typically fleshy to brittle, smooth or slightly wrinkled, and arise from soil, moss, forest litter, or decaying wood. Without a microscope, it's difficult to identify members of this genus.

Clavulina comprises branched to occasionally simple, coral-like basidiomycetes with smooth, brittle, often flattened branches. Colours range from white and cream to pale grey, buff, lilac, or violet, depending on species. Branch tips may be rounded, forked, or irregularly notched, but never spiny or tufted. Fruitbodies arise from a short, often indistinct base, forming small tufts to larger, intricately branched clusters. The entire surface is fertile, lacking a differentiated cap or gills.