Calvatia sp.
Puff ball
wikimedia· cc-by
Wikimedia Commons - Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark
wikimedia· cc-by
Wikimedia Commons - Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark
Description
A puffball fungus in the family Lycoperdiaceae found in tropical regions. There are approximately 35 Calvatia species, all of which are considered edible.
Edible Uses
The fungus/mushroom is eaten.
Distribution
It is a tropical plant.
Where It Grows
Australia*,
Notes
There are about 35 Calvatia species. All puffballs or Lycoperdiaceae are considered edible. See Alexopoulos, C.J., 1962, Introductory Mycology. Wiley Toppan. p 521
Dangerous Lookalikes
This plant can be confused with the following toxic species. Always verify identification carefully before consuming any wild plant.
Death Cap (button stage)
Amanita phalloides
Archenzo
Puff ball
Calvatia sp.
Wikimedia Commons - Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark
Death Cap (button stage): When cut in half reveals developing gills, stem, and cap outline inside the round exterior.
Puff ball: Uniform pure white flesh when cut in half, no internal structures visible, very large when mature.
References (2)
- Cribb, A.B. & J.W., 1976, Wild Food in Australia, Fontana. p 204
- Hiddins, L., 1999, Explore Wild Australia with the Bush Tucker Man. Penguin Books/ABC Books. p 159
