Lycoperdon perlatum, the Common Puffball, is an
edible fungus. Only young specimens should be collected, as once the
spore mass begins turning yellow the fungi are unsuitable for eating.
Description
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A surface covered in tiny pearl-like
attachments distinguishes the Common Puffball from its many similar
relatives. The pyramidal warts or 'pearls' are of different sizes,
initially cream and then turning ochre before falling off to leave an
olive-brown surface.
The dark area at the apex is where the pore develops, through which the
spores are released when raindrops hit the puffball or when a breeze blows
across the pore hole. |
Dimensions |
Typically 3 to 6cm across; 4 to 9cm tall. |
Other features |
Like many other puffballs, this is an
inedible fungus only if picked when young and white throughout. They are
easily gathered because of their habit of growing is dense clumps. |
Stipe |
The stipe is more or less an inverted cone, often somewhat distorted, and
contains a small amount of spongy, infertile material. |
Spores |
Olive-brown. |
Odour/taste |
Not distinctive. |
Habitat |
Found in all kinds of woodland. |
Season |
July to November. |
Occurrence |
Very common. |
Similar species |
- Lycoperdon echinatum is darker, with a reddish tinge, and is
covered in spines.
- Lycoperdon mammiforme is white at first and then its surface
breaks up into large cream scales rather than pearly warts.
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