They are smooth and yellow and are covered with a membrane. When cut open the ball is white in the center with three outer layers. The fungus produces an antimitotic toxin which may be toxic to mammals. The fungus survives the winter by means of sclerotia and chlamydospores.
Primary infection is by ascospores produced in the sclerotia.
Secondary infection is by airborne chlamydopores. There are differences in varietal resistance to False Smut. The Extension Service publishes the false smut reaction of the varieties grown in Mississippi. May attack corn. Resistant varieties are the best method of control.