Phylogenetic relationships between Bovista nigrescens and species of Lycoperdaceae were established based on ITS and LSU sequence data from north European taxa.

Although it lacks a sterile base, the fruit body is attached to the substrate by a single mycelial cord which often breaks, leaving the fruit body free to roll about in the wind.

[3] These spores leave via an apical pore, which is caused by extensive splitting and cracking.

They are thick-walled, and nearly smooth, with a central oil droplet, and a long, warted pedicel.

Although they are found most abundantly in late summer to autumn, they persist in old dried condition for many months.