Puff Balls and Stalked Puff Balls

Although most fungi are harmless, a small number are extremely toxic, and should be handled with caution. Never eat a fungus unless you are completely certain of its identity, and the species is known to be edible. If in doubt, discard it.

Lycoperdon nigrescens

Lycoperdon nigrescens

26 October 2007 Burghfield Common, Berkshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.

Lycoperdon perlatum

Lycoperdon perlatum

13 September 2008 West Sussex. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.

Lycoperdon pyriforme

Lycoperdon pyriforme

25 August 2008 West Sussex. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.