False morel

Gyromitra esculenta

A species of False morel. Also known as Elephant ears, Beefsteak mushroom, Lorel, Conifer false morel.

While the delectable common morel (Morchella esculenta) is largely distinctive, there's one species that bears a significant resemblance. The false morel (Gyromitra esculenta) has a cap that could potentially trick foragers seeking an edible mushroom, but this species is poisonous. To differentiate, observe that the conical caps of the false morel are convoluted and resemble a brain, whereas true morels possess caps with perforations, giving them a honeycomb texture. When sliced open, morels reveal hollow stems and caps, whereas false morels typically have filled-in or stringy interiors.

Attributes of False morel

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Cap Diameter
5 - 12 cm
Height
5 - 15 cm
Cap
Cap 3 - 12 cm across; irregular, brainlike; brown
Stem
Stem 3 - 9 cm long, 1 - 3.5 cm thick; whitish to ocher; smooth
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
Thin; brittle; whitish to tan
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Yellowish buff
Odor
Mild, slightly sweet, non-distinctive.
Body Color
BrownBlackRedWhitePink
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal, Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Wood Chips or Mulch, Dead Woods
You can find False morel by these plants
Balsam fir, Big-tooth aspen, Pines, Spruces
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of False morel

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Phylum
Sac fungi
Class
Pezizomycetes
Order
Pezizales
Family
Discinaceae
Genus
False morel
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Toxicity and Edibility of False morel

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Is False morel Toxic?

The false morel is known for its considerable toxicity, primarily due to gyromitrin. This substance can cause severe, even fatal, health issues by harming red blood cells and the liver. Even preparing it through cooking doesn't fully mitigate the risk, as the evaporating toxin can be inhaled and pose a health hazard. Despite its appealing look and the moniker Brain Mushroom, its inherent dangers make it a perilous food choice. It is strongly recommended to abstain from consuming false moreel because of its pronounced toxicity.

Toxins type
Gyromitrin
Type of poisoning
Neurotoxic
Toxic Severity
Extreme toxicity
Incubation Period
6-24 hours

Is False morel Toxic to Dogs?

False morel can be dangerous to dogs. If your pet has consumed this mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms may vary, but early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.