Definition

Noun: - A very large, edible species of puffball mushroom, scientifically classified as Calvatia gigantea. It is characterized by its enormous size, often reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter and weighing as much as 25 pounds (11 kg).

Usage

• This term is used specifically in mycology (the study of fungi), foraging, and culinary contexts to identify this particular species of fungus.
• It functions as a singular, countable noun.

Examples

• The forager was thrilled to find a Calvatia gigantea in the meadow.
• When young and the interior is pure white, Calvatia gigantea is considered a choice edible mushroom.
• The size of a mature Calvatia gigantea is truly impressive.

Advanced Usage

• The species name is often used in its full binomial form () for scientific precision. In informal contexts, it is commonly referred to by its descriptive common names.
• When discussing its edibility, a key detail is that it must be consumed only when the internal flesh (gleba) is completely white and firm. Once it begins to turn yellow or brown and develop spores, it is no longer edible.

Variants and Related Words

• Giant Puffball: The most common English common name for .
• Puffball: The general common name for fungi in the families Lycoperdaceae and Calvatia, which release a "puff" of spores when mature.
• Calvatia: The genus name, which includes other large puffball species.

Synonyms

• Giant Puffball
• (an older, synonymous scientific name sometimes still used).

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is taxonomic, referring to this specific biological species.
• Its defining characteristics are its immense size and its status as an edible puffball when harvested at the correct stage of growth.

Noun

1. huge edible puffball up to 2 feet diameter and 25 pounds in weight