False puffball is not a true mushroom but a slime mould in spores.
Also known as:
Cauli
False Puffball (Reticularia lycoperdon or Enteridium lycoperdon) is not a true mushroom but a slime mould in spores. The slime mould is shaped like a pillow and can grow to be + 10 cm in size. The fungus is white, later silver-grey and eventually chocolate brown.
False Puffballs appear in spring, often after a night frost, on damp rotting wood of deciduous trees. On decaying wood of conifers, the false puffball is rare.
False puffballs are not poisonous, but they are not eaten in Europe.
Where to find
- Common on decaying wood of deciduous trees
Control
This slime mould causes no damage; control unnecessary.
Prevention
Does not apply.
