The earth-stars, distinctive in that the inner spore case, which resembles a simple puffball, is surrounded at maturity by the star-like arms of the outer wall layer. Geastrum species are usually found in forests, and these arms serve to elevate the inner spore case from its immediate surroundings to help with spore dispersal by wind and rain.

There are 10 species reported from New Zealand.

Earthstars, with the puff-ball like centre part being revealed as the outer layer splits and folds back in the shape of several petals. Saprobic on soil.

At least 10 species have been reported from New Zealand, only those listed below have descriptions or images available from NZFungi.