False Morels

Most of the gyromitra species get tagged as false morels, although anyone familiar with morels and false morels can easily recognize the difference between them.

The top picture shows Gyromitra infula, or Elfin Saddle, a fall fruiting species that often shows a less wrinkled cap than other gyromitra species.

In most cases, experts warn again consuming false morels either raw or cooked.

The snow mushroom (Gyromitra montana) receives its name based on its habit of fruiting at higher elevations in the West along the snow melt line.

Research over the past couple of decades has led to some confusion among Gyromitra species, with debate existing as to whether Gyromitra gigas and Gyromitra montana should be considered the same species.

Physically, the mushroom grows very close to the ground, often with only the rounded cap showing. Its low growing feature helps differentiate it from other Gyromitra species that grow on longer, above ground stipes.

Gyromitra montana sometimes gets called the false snow morel and brain mushroom.

One of the spring fruiting Gyromitra species, Gyromitra esculenta inhabits northern forests of North America.

Its stipe is longer and thinner than Gyromitra montana. Additionally, its cap is usually smaller.

The picture shows a specimen with a blackened cap. In drier areas the mushroom has the ability to hold up over time, and the cap color changes from brown to black.

The shape of the cap also give rise to a common nickname, the brain mushroom.

© 2010-2011 Patricia A. Michaels