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Grey puffball

Bovista plumbea

A species of True puffballs

The grey puffball grows in sparse grasslands where the wind can reach it. The 'ball' is connected to the ground only by hairlike mycelium, which fractures as it ages, allowing the spore-filled body to roll away with the wind and populate new areas. The specific epithet, plumbea, means "leaden," for the lead-like color of its inner surface.

Odor:

Mild, not distinctive.

General Info About Grey puffball

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Attributes of Grey puffball

Flesh

White, olive, reddish, brown

Spore Print Color

Brown

Odor

Mild, not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Red

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Grey puffball by these plants:

Spruces, Pines

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands, Meadows

Species Status

Common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Grey puffball

Fruiting Body Flesh Habit & Habitat

AI mushroom expert in your pocket

Habitat of Grey puffball

Permanent pastures, old lawns, golf courses, dune slacks, golf courses and parks, roadside verges

Hunting Values of Grey puffball

Only edible when young, but generally, the fruit bodies are too small to warrant collection.

Uses of Grey puffball

Grey puffball is a mushroom recognized for its edibility with necessary precautions. It's not widely popular or commercially valued due to these safety concerns. The consumption of grey puffball requires careful identification and preparation, as improper handling could pose health risks. Its availability is seasonal, and while it may be used in certain culinary practices by knowledgeable foragers, caution is always advised to avoid potential toxicity.

Scientific Classification of Grey puffball

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

True puffballs

Similar Species to Grey puffball

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Tips for Finding Grey puffball

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When is the Best Time to Find Grey puffball

Search for grey puffball in late summer to autumn when the ground is damp. The best time is after rainfall, but not during heavy rain, when temperatures are mild, not freezing.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Grey puffball

Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Grey puffball

Search in open, disturbed areas where the grass is not too dense.
Look for small groupings rather than solitary specimens of grey puffball.
Inspect well-maintained spaces like lawns, golf courses, and parks.
Focus on areas with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
Check for grey puffball in open dune slacks, which provide suitable growing conditions.

How to Clean and Preserve Grey puffball

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How to Clean Grey puffball

To clean grey puffball, gently brush off any loose dirt. If necessary, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Grey puffball

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch in boiling water for a short time, then chill and freeze.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Grey puffball

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Container with Absorbent Lining, Crisper Drawer Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in a paper bag to allow air circulation, preventing moisture accumulation.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Place in lightly perforated plastic bags to maintain moisture while allowing some air exchange.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap in a damp cloth towel to keep them from drying out while refrigerated.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Layer between paper towels in a container to absorb excess moisture and prevent spoilage.

Crisper Drawer Storage: Place loose in the crisper drawer, ensuring there's no overcrowding.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Grey puffball

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Calvatia gigantea