Puffball is a similar species that can be used together or alone. They are Laisophaera fenzlii Reich., Calvatia gigantea Loyd., and Calvatia lilacina Loyd. All varieties grow large; some can grow to as much as 10 lbs!
Puffballs are being conserved in Norway and are becoming rare in other parts of Europe. Poland now protects them from foraging.
They are commonly used in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) to help stop bleeding internally and externally. It is also helpful for treating colds and flu symptoms.
Find out more about this culinary and medicinal mushroom.
