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

False Morel (SE/MW)

Gyromitra caroliniana / G. esculenta

⚠ Severely Toxic

Seek emergency medical care immediately

Cap color: brown,red
Cap size: medium
Gill color: none
Gill attachment: none
Stem: Pale, ribbed, chambered; grows near buried wood
Texture: smooth
Habitat: forest floor
Fruiting season: spring
Peak season: Spring

Key Identification Features

Brain-like wrinkled and lobed cap (not honeycomb-pitted), cap not fully fused to stem, interior chambered (not fully hollow), reddish-brown to tan

Symptoms & Toxicity

Gyromitrin toxin metabolizes to monomethylhydrazine. Delayed onset 6–12 hours: nausea, vomiting, hemolytic anemia, liver and kidney failure. Can be fatal.

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.