Geastrales

order of fungi

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Last updated

July 17, 2026

Quick Summary

The Geastrales is an order of fungi that includes earthstars. These fungi are typically found under trees, especially conifers. Their fruiting bodies are often spherical or egg-shaped and can split open in a star-like pattern to release spores. The genus Geastrum is a prime example, with its outer layer, the peridium, splitting into segments when dry, resembling a star.12

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fungus
Annotated classification
Order Geastrales Found under trees, mainly conifers; spherical or egg-shaped fruiting bodies resemble mushrooms, some become star-shaped after splitting open to release spores; includes earthstars; included in subclass Phallomycetidae; example genera include Geastrum, Radiigera, and Sphaerobolus. Order Gomphales Most are mycorrhizal,
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Order Geastrales Found under trees, mainly conifers; spherical or egg-shaped fruiting bodies resemble mushrooms, some become star-shaped after splitting open to release spores; includes earthstars; included in subclass Phallomycetidae; example genera include Geastrum, Radiigera, and Sphaerobolus. Order Gomphales Most are mycorrhizal,
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