How to identify Bread Crust Earthball

To correctly identify Bread Crust Earthball (Scleroderma areolatum), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   There is no true cap. The outer surface (peridium) is yellowish-brown to ochre, covered with small, flattened scales or areolae, giving it the appearance of cracked bread crust or leopard spots. The surface bruises reddish-brown when handled.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   There are no gills. Scleroderma areolatum is a puffball-like fungus.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   There is no true stem. The fruiting body is attached to the substrate by rhizomorphs (root-like strands).

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The interior (gleba) is white when young, gradually turning yellowish, then olive-brown, and finally dark brown to blackish-brown with maturity. At maturity, the gleba becomes powdery with spores.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is irregularly shaped, often roundish or flattened, ranging in size from 2-6 cm in diameter. It lacks a true stem, although it may have a small, constricted base.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in woods, particularly with sandy or poor soil, often under deciduous or coniferous trees. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming symbiotic relationships with tree roots. Can occur solitary or in small groups.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Areolate, scaly

Growth Form

Puffball-like

Spore Print

Dark brown to blackish brown

Body color

Yellowish-brown to ochre

Odor

Earthy, slightly chemical

Flesh bruises

Reddish-brown

Height

2-6 cm

Cap Diameter

2-6 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Puffball)
• Stem shape: Absent
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

Explore Bread Crust Earthball