Geastrum triplex	Prev	|	Index	|	Next

At the base of a Wellingtonia tree. 13 October 2009 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin

Species

Geastrum triplex

Common Name

Collared Earth Star

Fruiting Body

Initially onion shaped, the outer skin splits at the apex and folds back into 5 to 7 arms, to reveal a ball shaped sack containing the spores which it releases through an apical opening, or peristome, in the thin outer skin. The peristome has a ragged edge, and is surrounded by a distinct ring. The outer skin often splits giving rise to a platform or collar around the base of the spore sack. The fungus grows to about 15 cm across.

Flesh

Whitish

Smell

Indistinct

Taste

Indistinct

Season

Late summer to autumn

Distribution

Frequent

Habitat

In deciduous woods, less commonly in coniferous woods, favouring humus rich soil

Spore Print

Yellow brown to dark brown

Microscopic Features

Spores spherical, warty (4.5-5.5) µm across

Edibility

Inedible

Notes

This is one of the most common earth stars. Old fruit bodies often persist into winter and the following year.

Additional Photographs

13 October 2009 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin

13 October 2009 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin

Note the collar around the spore sack. 13 October 2009 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin

13 October 2009 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin

8 October 2006 Buckinghamshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin