Elfin Saddles

Helvella

When finding a dark mushroom with a deeply fluted or lacunose stem, it is very likely that you have a Helvella. These mushrooms are quite common and can be found year-round. There are over a dozen Helvella species in our region so identifying the exact species can be inexact.

Another group of Helvella mushrooms have a smooth stem and a more simple curvature to the cap. These can have a fortune cookie shape

Elfin saddles are sometimes gathered by foragers and eaten safely however it is important to properly cook them before eating. Learn more about toxins found among Helvella and other morel-like mushrooms here.