87R11498 CW-D
By: Campbell S.C.R. No. 38
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Among the fascinating array of flora in the Lone
Star State, one of the most unique species, both in appearance and
life cycle, is the Texas star mushroom; and
WHEREAS, This extremely rare mushroom, known scientifically
as Chorioactis geaster, was first collected in Austin in 1893 and is
nearly exclusive to Texas, with Japan being the only other place in
the world with a notable population; highly selective about where
it chooses to grow, the mushroom's Texas range is limited to the
central and northern parts of the state and includes Fayette,
Guadalupe, Hays, Travis, Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant, and Hunt
Counties; and
WHEREAS, The Texas star appears in winter, most commonly on
the exposed roots and decaying stumps of cedar elm trees; it emerges
as a dark brown capsule about four inches in length, which inspired
its nickname, the devil's cigar; and
WHEREAS, After rains, the mushroom explodes open with an
audible hiss, seemingly puffing smoke as it fills the air with a
cloud of spores that waft away to help ensure a future generation
for the species; in addition to its other memorable traits, the
mushroom, once opened, has a starlike shape that makes it seem
custom designed for the Lone Star landscape; and
WHEREAS, A poignant reminder of the natural diversity that
surrounds us, the Texas star mushroom is as uncommon and striking as
the state that serves as its home, and it is indeed deserving of
special recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate the Texas star mushroom as the official State
Mushroom of Texas.