Earthstar
Geastrum fimbriatum
Earthstar Mushroom (Geastrum Spp.) - Inedible
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Key Features
- Star-shaped exoperidium splitting into 6-10 rays
- Central
- spherical spore sac (endoperidium)
- Pale tan to cream rays
- grayish-brown spore sac
- Distinct apical pore (ostiole) visible on spore sac
Color:
Pale tan/cream rays; grayish-brown spore sac
Smell:
No distinctive smell
Growth Pattern:
Single
Environment:
Leaf litter
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat:
Forest floor, rich organic debris
Distribution:
Cosmopolitan (Widespread globally)
Seasonality:
Summer to Autumn
Economic Value
Market Demand:
None - inedible
Price Range:
N/A
Commercial Use:
None
Similar Species
Collared Earthstar
Geastrum triplex
Key Differences:
- Often larger size
- Possesses a distinct fleshy collar at the base of the spore sac
Hygroscopic Earthstar
Astraeus hygrometricus
Key Differences:
- Rays are hygroscopic (curl inward when dry)
- Spore sac texture often rougher
Recommended Action
Do not consume. Observe only.