Gyromitra californica belongs to a group of fungi that typically have a wrinkled, brain-like cap. Often found in forested areas, especially under conifers, it tends to appear in the springtime. Gyromitra californica has a variable color, ranging from reddish-brown to dark brown. The structure beneath the cap is not typical gills but rather folds that generate spores for reproduction.
Cap Diameter:
3 - 17 cm
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Gyromitra californica
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Attributes of Gyromitra californica
Cap Diameter
3 - 17 cm
Height
5 - 16 cm
Cap
Cap 2 - 20 cm across; convex; tan to brown, olive brown, whitish; with ribbed
Cap Shape
Convex, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Visible lines or stripes
Stem
Stem 3 - 12 cm long, 2 - 6 cm thick; whitish, pinkish to purplish red or lavender; ribbed with sharp-edged ribs
Stem Shapes
Tapering
Stem Surfaces
Ribbed
Flesh
Thin; fragile; whitish
Ring
Ringless
Body Color
Brown
Green
Yellow
White
Purple
Pink
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Dead Woods
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland
Species Status
Widespread
Endangered Species
No
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Habitat of Gyromitra californica
Gyromitra californica typically thrives in moist environments, predominantly under conifer trees. It often appears on the ground or on decomposing conifer wood in forested areas.
Scientific Classification of Gyromitra californica
