| Geastrum saccatum | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Fungi |
| Division: | Basidiomycota |
| Class: | Agaricomycetes |
| Order: | Geastrales |
| Family: | Geastraceae |
| Genus: | Geastrum |
| Species: | G. saccatum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Geastrum saccatum Fr. (1829)
| |
Geastrum saccatum | |
|---|---|
 | Glebal hymenium |
 | No distinct cap |
 | Hymenium attachment is not applicable |
| Lacks a stipe |
 | Spore print is brown |
 | Ecology is saprotrophic |
 | Edibility is inedible |
Geastrum saccatum, commonly known as the sessile earthstar[1] or rounded earthstar,[2] or star of the land,[3] is a species of mushroom belonging to the genus Geastrum. The opening of the outer layer of the fruiting body in the characteristic star shape is thought to be due to a buildup of calcium oxalate crystals immediately prior to dehiscence. G. saccatum is distinguished from other earthstars by the distinct circular ridge or depression surrounding the central pore.
The species has a worldwide distribution and is found growing on rotting wood. It is a common mushroom, but peaks in popularity during late summer. It is considered inedible but contains bioactive compounds.
- ^ Arora, David (1986). Mushrooms demystified: a comprehensive guide to the fleshy fungi (Second ed.). Berkeley: Ten Speed Press. ISBN 978-0-89815-169-5.
- ^ Sundberg W, Bessette A (1987). Mushrooms: A Quick Reference Guide to Mushrooms of North America (Macmillan Field Guides). New York: Collier Books. p. 20. ISBN 0-02-063690-3.
- ^ Guerra Dore CM, Azevedo TC, de Souza MC, Rego LA, de Dantas JC, Silva FR, Rocha HA, Baseia IG, Leite EL (2007). "Antiinflammatory, antioxidant and cytotoxic actions of β-glucan-rich extract from Geastrum saccatum mushroom". International Immunopharmacology. 7 (9): 1160–9. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2007.04.010. PMID 17630194.