When its fruit body becomes too compressed, the meadow puffball releases its powdery, green-brown spores in a burst. These spores are seriously harmful to humans - inhaling the spores of a mature puffball can lead to a respiratory disease called lycoperdonosis. This small puffball is often found growing in rings. It is most abundant after heavy rainfalls.
Odor:
Mild, not particularly distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Meadow puffball
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Attributes of Meadow puffball
Height
2 - 4 cm
Stem
Stem 1 - 2 cm long, 1.5 cm thick; swollen towards the base; white; surface shorter spines
Flesh
White, yellow, grey-brown
Spore Print Color
Light brown to dark brown
Odor
Mild, not particularly distinctive.
Body Color
White
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
The meadow puffball can be found in a wide range of grassy habitats such as pastures, meadows, lawns, parklands, and golf courses, as well as in dune slacks. Although it's commonly found in grass and seems like growing from the ground, this fungus actually grows on well-rotten woody debris in humus-rich soil.
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Edibility of Meadow puffball
Meadow puffball is reportedly edible but not considered particularly tasty. It does not have a distinctive smell or taste. Only the small, young mushrooms that are white all the way through can be eaten, and only if thoroughly cooked. Be careful not to confuse this with toxic Earthball mushrooms, which are purple or black on the inside.
Similar Species to Meadow puffball
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Tips for Finding Meadow puffball
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What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Meadow puffball
Well-drained, rich in nutrients, with a preference for calcareous content.
What are Some Tips for Finding Meadow puffball
Scout for meadow puffball in open, grassy areas like parks and golf courses where the ground has been undisturbed for several years.
Look for meadow puffball in areas with well-drained soil, inspecting spots where grass is shorter due to grazing or mowing.
Investigate around spots where other fungi have been found, as meadow puffball may grow in the vicinity.
Be meticulous when checking ground depressions, as meadow puffball can sometimes be nestled in these natural formations.
Use a gentle touch when moving aside grass and debris to reveal any hidden specimens of meadow puffball.
How to Clean and Preserve Meadow puffball
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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