How to identify Common Gyromitra

To correctly identify Common Gyromitra (Gyromitra esculenta), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   Irregularly shaped, brain-like, reddish-brown

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   N/A (Ascomycete)

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Stout, ribbed, often hollow

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Pale, brittle

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Overall brain-like appearance with a stout stem

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Ascomycete)
• Stem shape: Stout, ribbed
• Stem surface: Smooth to ribbed
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow or chambered

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