Description

The body of this mushroom is white colored when young. In older specimens, the flesh becomes brown colored. This mushroom has a specific sack-like form. It is also known to be covered in tiny white spikes which can easily be removed. When the spores are developed, usually a hole is formed on the surface of the mushroom through which spores get out in form of a fine powder. The spores of this mushroom are brown colored.

Chemical reactions

The flesh of this mushroom reacts with guaiacol to form a greenish grey color. The reaction with iron sulphate produces a yellow coloration.

Habitat

The common puffball doesn't specifically grow close to any specific tree species, so they can generally be found in any kind of forest, and even on meadows. They grow throughout Europe and North America.

Season

This mushroom can be found from April to November.

Edibility

Edible and very tasty. However, one should have in mind that only young specimens are used, in which the flesh of the mushroom is still white colored.

Similar species

There are almost no poisonous species with which common puffball could be confused. Among other types of puffballs, Lycoperdon foetidum is perhaps the most similar one. However it has a foul smell. The common rule for most puffballs is that they can be used as long as the flesh of the mushroom is white.