This species is recorded as highly toxic. Do not consume. Highly toxic and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress if ingested. Foragers should avoid this species and be cautious of lookalikes.
Scleroderma citrinum is a globular, spore-producing fungus that resembles a small, yellowish to brownish ball. The outer surface is smooth and can be somewhat leathery, while the interior contains a dark, powdery spore mass.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Sclerodermataceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Scleroderma |
| Edibility | Poisonous — do not consume |
| Toxicity | high |
| Season | Aug-Oct |
| Habitat | Typically found in sandy or acidic soils, often in forests or grasslands. |
| Region | Widely distributed across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. |
Habitat: Typically found in sandy or acidic soils, often in forests or grasslands.
Region: Widely distributed across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
Fruits from late summer to early autumn.
Typical months: Aug-Oct
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
Distinguished by its more irregular surface and often larger size.
Recognizable by its spiny surface and pear-shaped body.
Pin the sighting and compare this species against its lookalikes in the offline database — confusion runs both ways, and knowing where toxic species fruit makes every future ID safer.
Download Mushroom TrackerDisclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.