142 MUSHEOOMS. 



covering by a long cord, which can be seen 

 only through a strong lens. 



CYATHUS VERNICOSUS = varnished. 

 The Varnished Cup. 



This differs from the crucible in color, form 

 and habitat. It is about J an inch high. It is 

 bell-shaped, becoming broadly open like a 

 trumpet, and of a slate or ash color. The 

 mouth and lining shine as if varnished, and 

 hence its name. The plants grow on the ground, 

 on wood and on leaves. 



LYCOPERDON CYATHIFORME = cup-shape. 

 The Cup-shaped Puff-ball. 



This species of puff-ball is round Avith a con- 

 tracted base. It is 4 to 10 inches across, a 

 white or pinkish-brown color, afterward becom- 

 ing a darker brown and covered with small 

 patches. When the spores mature the upper 

 part of the covering (peridium) becomes torn 

 and only the lower part remains. It looks like 

 a dark-colored cup with a ragged margin, and 

 may be seen by the excursionist in the spring 

 on the roadside. It has survived the winter 

 frosts and storms. It is split and shabby 



