⚠ If you suspect ingestion of this species, call Poison Control immediately:
1-800-222-1222 (US) · poison.org

Leopard Earthball

Scleroderma areolatum

⚠ Moderately Toxic

Call Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Cap color: brown,tan
Cap size: 2–8 cm
Gill color: none
Gill attachment: none
Stem: no true stem; rooting base
Texture: hard, leathery
Habitat: woodland, mixed forest, grassy areas
Fruiting season: July–October
Peak season: Summer–Fall (July–October)

Key Identification Features

Round to oval earthball, 2–8 cm
outer surface brown with small dark areolate scales resembling leopard spots
interior solid and purplish-black at maturity unlike true puffballs
no stem
splits at top to release spores

Symptoms & Toxicity

Toxic if ingested; contains sclerodermin; causes GI distress nausea and vomiting; seek medical attention

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. If you believe someone has ingested a toxic mushroom, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.