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Giant Puffball (Calvatia gigantea) — mushroom identification photo

Giant Puffball

Calvatia gigantea

✓ Edible
Always verify identification with multiple features before consuming
Cap color
white
Cap size
large
Gill color
none
Gill attachment
none
Stem
Attached to soil by a cord; no true stem
Texture
smooth
Habitat
meadow,grassland,forest floor
Fruiting season
summer,fall
Peak season
Late Summer–Fall (August–October)

Key Identification Features

Preparation Notes

Slice in half and verify pure white interior — any hint of gills or outline of a button mushroom inside means it may be an immature Amanita and must be discarded. Cook thoroughly. Excellent sliced and pan-fried.

Regions Found

Region data not available

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions.