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Gyromitra infula

Elfin saddle

Description

Unlike other Gyromitra species, its fruiting bodies grow in late summer and autumn rather than in spring. The pileus is broadly set, usually saddle-shaped in two or three lobes. Its colour may vary, most commonly chocolate brown with blackish hue, but even pale yellow to dark brown may occur. The fungus grows on the ground but also on decaying wood buried in the soil and is also known by the common name “elfin saddle”. It is generally considered as a saprophyte. Some mycologists believe that the fungus forms a mycorrhizal association with trees. Like its relative Gyromitra esculenta – the brain mushroom, which grows in spring, the elfin saddle is a poisonous species.

Symptom

The hat is widely distributed, usually divided by a saddle into two to three lobes, chocolate brown in color.

Tree Species: Spruce

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Fungi

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes

Last observations

There are a total of 2 observations of the species in the system

Gyromitra infula Elfin saddle
Marián Fojtík
Number of votes: 0
Published: 16.11.2025

Gyromitra infula Elfin saddle
jana29122
Number of votes: 0
Published: 30.10.2020

Gyromitra infula Elfin saddle
jana29122
Number of votes: 0
Published: 30.10.2020