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Western elfin saddle

Helvella vespertina

A species of Elfin saddles, Also known as Black Helvella

The western elfin saddle (Helvella vespertina) has a striking, brain-shaped cap that becomes even more fissured as it ages. They appear and flourish amidst the leaf litter on forest floors in the western United States. The shape of the cap makes it a wonderful hiding place for insects, especially millipedes.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 10 cm

Odor:

Faintly fungal, otherwise indistinct.

General Info About Western elfin saddle

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Attributes of Western elfin saddle

Cap Diameter

3 - 10 cm

Height

6 - 15 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 10 cm across; irregularly lobed and convoluted; black to dark gray, brown; surface bald but wrinkled

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Stem

Stem 5 - 14 cm long, 1.5 - 6 cm thick; whitish to grayish, darker gray to grayish brown

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Ribbed

Flesh

Thin; brittle; whitish to grayish

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faintly fungal, otherwise indistinct.

Body Color

Brown

Black

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal, Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Western elfin saddle by these plants:

Common douglas-fir

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widespread

Endangered Species

How to Identify Western elfin saddle

Fruiting Body Cap Undersurface

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Habitat of Western elfin saddle

The habitat of the western elfin saddle is associated with conifers, particularly pines and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). It grows on the ground or decaying woody debris under conifers.

Hunting Values of Western elfin saddle

Edibility is debatable. While some believe it's edible after thorough cooking, other guides suggest it's inedible.

Uses of Western elfin saddle

Western elfin saddle is recognized as a mushroom with questionable edibility. Its practical applications are limited due to potential health risks associated with consumption. While it may be found in certain localities, especially during its fruiting season, western elfin saddle is not popularly collected for culinary use. Foragers and consumers should exercise caution and often avoid this species due to the uncertainty surrounding its safety for ingestion.

Scientific Classification of Western elfin saddle

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Similar Species to Western elfin saddle

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False morel

Similar Species

Western elfin saddle

Confusing Aspects of False morel and Western elfin saddle?

Western elfin saddle and False morel may be confused due to their similar convoluted, brain-like cap appearance.

How to Differentiate Between False morel and Western elfin saddle?

Western elfin saddle: Stem is long, slender, ribbed or fluted.

False morel: Stem is often short, thick, irregularly shaped.

Tips for Finding Western elfin saddle

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When is the Best Time to Find Western elfin saddle

Search for western elfin saddle in late summer to early autumn, as cooler evening temperatures and moist conditions after rainfall are favorable for their growth.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Western elfin saddle

Damp, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

What are Some Tips for Finding Western elfin saddle

Seek out western elfin saddle in coniferous woodland areas, focusing on locales with abundant pine and Douglas-fir trees.
Inspect the bases of trees and nearby ground as western elfin saddle typically grow in the vicinity of coniferous tree roots.
Look for them in areas with well-shaded, moist ground as they tend to thrive in damp soil conditions.
Check for western elfin saddle in areas where the ground is rich in decomposed plant material, which often indicates suitable organic content in the soil.
Return to previously successful spots as western elfin saddle may reappear in the same locations due to favorable conditions.

How to Clean and Preserve Western elfin saddle

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How to Clean Western elfin saddle

Clean western elfin saddle by gently brushing off any dirt or debris using a soft brush. If necessary, quickly rinse under cool running water, but limit exposure as western elfin saddle can absorb moisture. Pat dry immediately with a paper towel to prevent water absorption.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Western elfin saddle

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark, dry place in airtight containers with desiccants to prevent moisture.

Dehydrator drying: Best for consistent low-temperature air circulation, ensuring thorough drying.

Oven drying: Set on the lowest temperature, door slightly ajar for ventilation.

Air drying: Ideal in a dry, warm place with good airflow, away from direct sunlight.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Western elfin saddle

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch for 1-2 minutes, cool, dry, freeze on tray, store in airtight containers.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Western elfin saddle

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

3 - 5 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow breathability and reduce moisture buildup, decreasing spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use bags with holes to maintain humidity while permitting air circulation, preventing sogginess.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap them loosely in a damp cloth to maintain adequate humidity without excess moisture accumulation.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Where does western elfin saddle grow?