This species was formerly known as G. minimum. As shown by Zamora et al. G. minimum could be divided in several morphologically and molecularly different species: G. granulosum G. marginatum, G. austrominimum. Later G. dolomiticum has also been attributed to this species group.

Widely distributed species in Eurasia and N. America, in a wide range of dry grassland environments, mostly on calcareous soil. No immediate threat. LC

Wide geopgraphical distribution at least in the northern hemisphere. Records from many areas are ambiguous due to the recent splitting of G. minimum. In Scandinavia G. granulsoum is widely distributed and has a continuous distribution up in the in arctic-alpine vegetation. Also in xeric habitats in Greenland. In Scandinavia (and Europe) much more frequent than its sister species G. marginatum.

Due to the splitting of Geastrum minimum, under which name G. granulosum was previously recorded, distribution records are ambiguous. Trend appears to be stable.

Dry and exposed grassland, rocky steppe grassland, pastures, sand fields, sand dunes, arctic-alpine grassland abd heathland (Dryas heaths on exposed mountain slopes).

Although redlisted in many European countries its wide range of dry and xeric habitat preferences combined with a wide distribution does not indicate any immediate threats.