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Gyromitra esculenta is a fungus that can cause serious poisoning if eaten raw or improperly prepared. It is characterized by its irregularly shaped, brain-like cap and reddish-brown color. The stem is typically stout and ribbed. It is found in sandy soils under coniferous trees, particularly in the spring.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Irregularly shaped, brain-like, reddish-brown
- Gills
- N/A (Ascomycete)
- Stem
- Stout, ribbed, often hollow
- Flesh
- Pale, brittle
- Fruiting body
- Overall brain-like appearance with a stout stem
- Habitat
- Sandy soils under coniferous trees
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Wrinkled, brain-like
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: Light yellow to ochre
- Body color: Reddish-brown
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: No significant bruising
- Height: 5-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Toxic
DeadlyGyromitra esculenta contains gyromitrin, which hydrolyzes into monomethylhydrazine (MMH), a toxic compound. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver damage, seizures, and death. Parboiling can reduce toxin levels, but it does not eliminate the risk entirely. Consumption is not recommended.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild
- Fruiting: Spring
- Substrate: Sandy soil under conifers
Where to Find
Coniferous Forests
Sandy soils under coniferous trees
Disturbed Ground
Disturbed soil areas
Finding Tips
Seasonal Timing
Look for them in the spring.
Habitat
Check areas with sandy soil, especially where conifers are present.
Similar Species
Gyromitra infula
Ascomycete fungus
Also known as: False Morel
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Ascomycota
- Class
- Pezizomycetes
- Order
- Pezizales
- Family
- Discinaceae
- Genus
- Gyromitra
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