⚠ If you suspect ingestion of this species, call Poison Control immediately:
1-800-222-1222 (US) · poison.org

Helvella elastica

Helvella elastica

⚠ Mildly Toxic

Monitor symptoms; call Poison Control if they persist: 1-800-222-1222

Cap color: Brown to grey, saddle-shaped
Cap size: 2–5 cm cap width
Gill color: N/A (cup interior)
Gill attachment: N/A
Stem: Pale, smooth (not ribbed), slender
Texture: Thin, brittle, elastic
Habitat: Moist deciduous and mixed woodland, streambanks
Peak season: Spring–Fall

Key Identification Features

Saddle-shaped or two-lobed brown to grey cap on a smooth pale stem (unlike ribbed H. lacunosa)
lobes not attached to stem
fragile structure
grows in moist woodland

Symptoms & Toxicity

Like all Helvella species, contains gyromitrin when raw; thoroughly cooking removes most toxins; raw consumption risks hemolytic anemia; cook thoroughly and discard cooking water; do not eat raw or undercooked

Regions Found

Region data not available

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions. If you believe someone has ingested a toxic mushroom, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.