Sphaerobolaceae
cannonball fungus: Best for Low Light
Sphaerobolus stellatus
Requires high humidity and a constant supply of decaying organic matter like wood mulch. Keep in shaded, damp conditions and avoid direct sunlight.
Every 2 days
Low light
10° - 25°C
70% - 95%
Categories
What is cannonball fungus?
cannonball fungus (Sphaerobolus stellatus) is a medium-care plant from the Sphaerobolaceae family. Sphaerobolus stellatus, commonly known as the cannonball fungus or artillery fungus, is a unique species of fungus known for its explosive spore dispersal mechanism. It produces tiny, star-shaped fruiting bodies that contain a single dark spore mass (peridiole). When internal pressure builds up, the...
cannonball fungus grows up to 1cm, spread of 10cm, watering every 2 days, 10°C – 25°C, 70–95% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, cannonball fungus is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 7 days.
How to Care for cannonball fungus?
TLDR: cannonball fungus needs Low light, watering every 2 days, and temperatures between 10-25°C with 70-95% humidity.
How Often Should You Water cannonball fungus?
Mist daily to maintain the high humidity required for the hydraulic pressure mechanism to function.
How Much Light Does cannonball fungus Need?
Prefers deep shade; however, it uses light to orient its spore 'cannon' before firing.
What Is the Best Soil for cannonball fungus?
Thrives exclusively on decaying wood, particularly hardwood mulches.
What Pot Should You Use for cannonball fungus?
A shallow tray filled with aged wood chips or mulch.
Care Schedule
Misting
Every 1 days
What Is cannonball fungus and Where Does It Come From?
Sphaerobolus stellatus, commonly known as the cannonball fungus or artillery fungus, is a unique species of fungus known for its explosive spore dispersal mechanism. It produces tiny, star-shaped fruiting bodies that contain a single dark spore mass (peridiole). When internal pressure builds up, the fungus forcibly ejects the peridiole toward light sources, often sticking to surfaces like house siding or cars.
How to Propagate cannonball fungus?
Spore Dispersal
- Keep the mulch consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Avoid fresh cedar or redwood mulch as they have antifungal properties.
- 1 Substrate Preparation
Provide a thick layer of damp, aged hardwood mulch or wood chips.
- 2 Inoculation
Place an active fruiting body near the substrate or allow natural spore landing.
- 3 Incubation
Maintain high humidity and cool temperatures to encourage mycelial growth.
Materials needed:
How Big Does cannonball fungus Grow?
TLDR: cannonball fungus can reach up to 1cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1cm
Spread
10cm
Growth rate
Fast
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents explosive potential and precision in nature.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
