Potato earthball
Scleroderma bovista
A species of Earth balls.
The potato earthball's name comes from its striking resemblance to a potato. This fungus is known for its uniquely shaped microscopic spores, and as it ripens, its surface develops pinkish fissures. With further aging, it may also release an offensive smell. The potato earthball has been indicated as possibly poisonous and should therefore not be eaten.
In This Article
Attributes of Potato earthball
Flesh
Flesh 1 - 1.5 mm thick
Spore Print Color
Dark brown or black
Odor
Mildly earthy, not particularly distinct.
Body Color
BrownYellowRedOrange
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal, Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil
You can find Potato earthball by these plants
Oaks, Lindens
Occurence Habitats
Meadows, Disturbed Lands
Species Status
Widespread
Endangered Species
No
Scientific Classification of Potato earthball
Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Boletes and allies
Family
Hard-skinned puffballs
Genus
Earth balls
Toxicity and Edibility of Potato earthball
Is Potato earthball Toxic?
The earthball mushroom, known as potato earthball, is poisonous and consuming it can cause various adverse effects. It is advisable to avoid this fungus.
