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Helvella lacunosa

Helvella lacunosa
Helvella lacunosa, the Elfin's Saddle, is rather morbid in its appearance, with both the stem and the cap in shades of leaden grey. This species  seems to favour rich soil and burnt ground.

Identification guide

Description

The saddle-shaped caps of Helvella lacunosa often have three or more contorted lobes. The cap edges join to the stem to form a multi-lobed inner chamber with several opening.

The smooth outer surface of the cap is dark grey and smooth; that surface bears the spores. The infertile inner surface is also grey but has a felty feel.

The longitudinally grooved stem is grey-brown and hollow, creating many inner chambers.

Dimensions

Typically 2 to 4cm across the cap; total height 4 to 10cm.

Spore print

White.

Odour/taste

Not distinctive.

Habitat

On the ground and among leaf litter in all kinds of woodland. Often found on burnt ground in woodland clearings.

Season

Summer and autumn.

Occurrence

Frequent.

Similar species

  1. Helvella crispa has a fluted, broader stem with external grooves and internal hollow channels.
  2. Helvella elastica has a fawn or cream cap and a narrow, solid stem.
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