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Gyromitra infula, commonly known as the Wrinkled Thimble-cap or Elfin Saddle, is a fungus with a distinctive saddle-shaped cap. It is typically found in coniferous woods and is characterized by its irregular, lobed cap and hollow stem. While some Gyromitra species are edible after proper preparation, others are toxic, so caution is advised.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is reddish-brown to dark brown, with a wrinkled or folded surface. It is typically 2-8 cm wide and long.
- Gills
- This species does not have gills. The spore-bearing surface is on the outer surface of the cap.
- Stem
- The stem is typically 3-10 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, hollow, and often ribbed or grooved.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin and brittle.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body consists of a cap and a stem. The cap is typically saddle-shaped or irregularly lobed.
- Habitat
- It is commonly found in coniferous woods, often near decaying wood.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Wrinkled, lobed
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: Light yellow
- Body color: Reddish-brown to dark brown
- Odor: Mild
- Flesh bruises: No significant bruising
- Height: 3-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-8 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Toxic
Severe ToxicityContains gyromitrin, which is toxic and can cause severe poisoning. Proper cooking may reduce the toxin levels, but it is not recommended for consumption.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Decaying wood or leaf litter in coniferous forests
Where to Find
Coniferous Forests
Prefers areas with pine and spruce trees.
Decaying Wood
Often found near rotting logs or stumps.
Finding Tips
Seasonal Timing
Look for it in late summer to autumn.
Habitat Clues
Check areas with moist soil and plenty of leaf litter.
Similar Species
False Morel
a species of fungus in the genus Gyromitra
Also known as: Gyromitra esculenta
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Ascomycota
- Class
- Ascomycetes
- Order
- Pezizales
- Family
- Helvellaceae
- Genus
- Gyromitra
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