How to identify Scaly Earthball

To correctly identify Scaly Earthball (Scleroderma verrucosum), 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.

   Round to irregular shape, 2-6 cm in diameter, surface covered with coarse scales or warts, yellowish-brown to dark brown in color.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   N/A (Gasteroid fungus)

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Absent or a short, stem-like base.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Firm when young, becoming powdery with age. White to yellowish-brown.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Puffball-like, roundish to irregular.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grassy areas, meadows, and open woods, often near deciduous trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Covered with coarse scales or warts

Growth Form

Puffball-like

Spore Print

Dark brown to blackish

Body color

Yellowish-brown to dark brown

Odor

Mild, earthy

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising reaction

Height

2-6 cm

Cap Diameter

2-6 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Gasteroid fungus)
• Stem shape: N/A (Stem-like base)
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly rough
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A (Stem-like base)

Explore Scaly Earthball