This mushroom is common and widespread throughout mainland Europe.
It is often found in small groups in pastures, at the sides of roads and generally in grassy areas.
It appears in Autumn as a whitish small ball (20-50 mm) or sometimes it takes a pear-like shape.
Photographed on Mt. Parnitha on October 11, 2018
The part of the ball that touches the ground is a characteristic of this species.
Photographed at Kaisariani on November 11, 2019
In maturity the outside of the ball becomes almost smooth, yellowish or oil-brown.
Photographed at Kaisariani on October 14, 2018
The mass inside the ball looks like a white sponge but as the mushroom matures it turns into fine brown spores.
Photographed on Mt. Parnitha on June 21, 2017
The spores disperse through an opening at the top in order to ensure the perpetuation of the species. [See video below.]
Photographed at Kaisariani on November 11, 2019
video
