Very fibrous and inedible

Geastrum is a genus of puffball-like mushrooms in the family Geastraceae. Many species are commonly known as earthstars. The name comes from geo meaning earth and aster meaning star. At maturity, the outer layer of the fruiting body splits into segments which turn outward creating a star-like pattern on the ground. They are generally not toxic but considered non-edible due to their fibrous texture in the mature stage at which they are generally found.

Photo: Klaus Querengasser