Gem-studded Puffball - Lycoperdon perlatum

This type of puffball is shaped like an inverted pear with a prominent stem/stalk and a round top. They are covered with brown spines when young. At maturity, they develop a central perforation through which spores are released by rain and wind. The interior is completely white and homogenous.

Lycoperdon perlatum is a good edible mushroom when young (when the gleba is homogeneous and all white). However, foragers must be careful not to confuse puffballs with young Amanitas, which are enclosed by a universal veil. But, a longitudinal section of a young Amanita will reveal the immature gills, which never occur in puffballs.

Habitat: Growing on rotting wood in a mixed forest.