After rain, the mushroom explodes open, unfurling into a tawny-colored star that makes an audible hissing noise while puffing smoke. That has earned it the nickname “devil’s cigar.” ...

Scientifically called Chorioactis Geaster and commonly known as both the Devil's Cigar and Texas star, the fungus is the official State Mushroom of Texas. Legislation designating it as such was ...