Scientific Name
Scleroderma geaster
Common Name
Dead Man's Hand, Devils Snuff Box, Earthstar Scleroderma
Anatomy of a Mushroom

Plant Pathology Information Note

HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

Characteristics

Mushroom Description
FRUITING BODIES large, roundish in shape, up to 5-6 inches in diameter; tan to tannish brown, breaking up into large scale-like patches upon expansion; splitting into irregular star-like lobes or rays, usually with 4-6 rays. PERIDIUM or rind very thick, tan. GLEBA (interior or spore mass) marbled purple brown even when very young, becoming blackish brown and dusty as spores mature.
Origin
USA, NC
Distribution
Throughout NC but more frequently in the Piedmont, on exposed clay soil especially road banks.
Where Found
Forest or natural area, landscape. Singly, or often in groups of 3-4 fruiting bodies and frequently with 2 or 3 fruiting bodies fused; on exposed clay or sandy soil, occasionally in lawns.
Mode
Ingestion
Poisonous Part
Mushroom
Symptoms
Patient may experience gastrointestinal upset including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cramps. Symptoms may appear within 30-45 minutes following ingestion.
Edibility
NOT EDIBLE!
Comments
The size, thickness, and firmness of the fruiting body makes this a readily identifiable fungus. The rind (covering over the spore mass inside) is so thick it frequently is intact months after all the spores are gone. This fungus is also known to crack asphalt on driveways and tennis courts as the fruiting bodies develop.
Severity
HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN!

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology; and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming, Miguel A. Buendia; graphics, Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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