About Astraeus pteridis (Shear) Zeller
Astraeus pteridis (Shear) Zeller, when fully expanded, reaches 5 to 15 centimetres (2 to 6 inches) or larger, and typically has a more distinct areolate pattern on the inner surface of its rays. Like all other species in the Astraeus genus, this fungus is hygroscopic: its rays expand in humid conditions and close during arid conditions. It is not generally considered edible. It closely resembles the European species Astraeus hygrometricus, but grows larger than this relative. Within the genus Astraeus, A. pteridis is most closely related to A. morganii. A 2013 molecular phylogenetic study reallocated the name A. pteridis to the larger Astraeus species found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. A. pteridis has also been recorded in the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Argentina, locations that share historical connections to Lusitania. It may have a wide distribution, or may have been translocated to these additional sites.
