Lycoperdon

fungus genus

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

The genus Lycoperdon comprises about 50 species of small puffball fungi found worldwide. These fungi produce spores internally within a spherical fruiting body. When the mature fruiting body dries and becomes powdery, disturbing it releases puffs of spores. Many Lycoperdon species, such as the common or gem-studded puffball (L. perlatum), are edible when young. These fungi typically grow in woods or on sawdust during the summer and autumn. A related subterranean fungus, Elaphomyces cervinus, is also referred to as a lycoperdon nut.123

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Agaricales
Agaricaceae
Lycoperdon is a genus of 50 cosmopolitan species of small common puffballs. Calvatia contains about 35 species, including the giant puffball (C. gigantea), which can be as large as 120 cm (4 feet) across.
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Lycoperdon is a genus of 50 cosmopolitan species of small common puffballs. Calvatia contains about 35 species, including the giant puffball (C. gigantea), which can be as large as 120 cm (4 feet) across.
Read More

Lycoperdaceae
Lycoperdon is a genus of 50 cosmopolitan species of small common puffballs. L. perlatum (gemmatum) has spotlike scars on the surface and is edible only when young. These fungi are found in the woods or on sawdust in summer and autumn.
Read More
Lycoperdon is a genus of 50 cosmopolitan species of small common puffballs. L. perlatum (gemmatum) has spotlike scars on the surface and is edible only when young. These fungi are found in the woods or on sawdust in summer and autumn.
Read More