Like all puffballs, this mushroom grows without a distinct stalk, and assumes a sort of inverted-pear shape. The umber-brown puffball is distinguished by its dark color and the short spines, less than 1 mm in length, that cover its cap.
Odor:
Mild, earthy with a hint of spice.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Umber-brown puffball
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Attributes of Umber-brown puffball
Height
3 - 7 cm
Flesh
Whitish to brownish
Spore Print Color
Olive
Odor
Mild, earthy with a hint of spice.
Body Color
Brown
Black
Red
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter
You can find Umber-brown puffball by these plants:
The umber-brown puffball is a woodland mushroom that occurs in mixed forests. It grows on the ground, in soil or duff under trees.
Hunting Values of Umber-brown puffball
Only edible when young.
Uses of Umber-brown puffball
Umber-brown puffball is recognized as an edible mushroom, but with significant precautions. Its consumption requires proper identification and preparation to avoid potential health risks. While not a staple in mainstream cuisine, umber-brown puffball may be seasonally foraged by enthusiasts familiar with its safe use. It's less popular than other edible mushrooms due to these safety concerns. Always consult an expert before consuming umber-brown puffball to ensure it is prepared correctly and to mitigate any possible adverse effects.
How to Differentiate Between Common earthball and Umber-brown puffball?
Umber-brown puffball: The inside is white and becomes powdery with age.
Common earthball: Has a hard, dark-colored interior.
Umber-brown puffball: Surface is soft and puffy.
Common earthball: Surface feels firm and has a thick skin.
Tips for Finding Umber-brown puffball
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When is the Best Time to Find Umber-brown puffball
Search for umber-brown puffball during late summer to fall when the weather begins to cool. These mushrooms thrive after rain, in mild temperatures, and when there is increased moisture in the air.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Umber-brown puffball
Rich, woody debris-laden soils or duff.
What are Some Tips for Finding Umber-brown puffball
Search in coniferous forested areas, particularly where the ground is littered with woody debris.
Inspect around the base of conifer trees and areas with accumulated plant duff.
Gently move aside fallen needles and leaves to uncover hidden specimens of umber-brown puffball.
Keep an eye out for small groupings as umber-brown puffball might grow in clusters.
Be patient and survey the area carefully; umber-brown puffball can blend in with its surroundings.
How to Clean and Preserve Umber-brown puffball
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How to Clean Umber-brown puffball
To clean umber-brown puffball, brush off dirt and debris gently with a soft brush, without vigorous scrubbing. Ensure they are not yellow or green inside to confirm purity.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Umber-brown puffball
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Improves color, taste retention by inactivating enzymes.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Umber-brown puffball
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
85 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Allows breathing, reduces moisture buildup, suitable for low water content species.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Tiny holes in bags prevent condensation, maintaining texture while retaining some humidity.
Cloth Wrapping: Mushrooms kept in a dry, clean towel encourages air circulation, warding off spoilage.
Original Packaging Storage: If sold in a container, often these are designed for optimal storage.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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