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Helvella crispa

 
Helvella crispa is one of several 'saddle fungi' that appear in forest, particularly beside footpaths. They are easily overlooked among fallen leaves in dim light, but on bright days they are very easy to spot.

Identification guide

Description

The saddle-shaped cap may have two or three major undulations and many minor curled contortions. The upper surface is smooth and cream or occasionally pale ochre; the underside is pale ochre and slightly downy.

The tapering stem is white and deeply furrowed, with thin, elastic flesh.

Dimensions

This species is very variable in size. The cap is typically 3 to 8 cm across and 1 to 4 cm tall; the stipe is 2 to 4 cm in diameter and 4 to 8 cm long.

Spore print

White.

Odour/taste

Faint odour; no distinctive taste.

Habitat

Under broad-leaved trees, particularly beech and oak.

Season

Summer and autumn.

Occurrence

Frequent.

Similar species

  1. Helvella elastica has a tough, smooth stem without channels.
  2. Helvella lacunosa has a grey-brown or black cap.
First Nature Multimedia Guide to Fungi
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