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The Brown Gykomitra (Edible;) 

 Gyrouiitra brunnca Underwood 



The genus Gyro-iiiifra is closely related to the genus MorclicUa and 

 produces its spores in the same way, but instead of having pits on the 

 surface of the cap, as do the morels, it has wrinkles and plaits or folds 

 which make the cap appear more or less brain-like. 



Gyromitra brunnca is a stout, fleshy plant with a distinct stem, and 

 a broad, much-twisted, and folded cap. It grows in the woods in 

 early spring at the same time and under the same conditions as the 

 morels. The whole plant is 7 to 12 cm. (3 to 5 inches) high. The 

 stem is thick, somewhat spongy, hollow but solid at the base, usually 

 with an irregular surface, and clear white in color. 



The cap is 5 to 12 cm. (2 to 4 inches) broad in the widest diameter 

 and somewhat narrower the other way. It is attached closely to the 

 stem in various places, and is rich chocolate-brown above and white 

 beneath. It is tender and fragile and has a good flavor. It should be 

 cooked in the same wav as morels. 



Another species which is occasionally found in the state is Gyromi- 

 tra csculcnta Fries. This is a somewhat larger plant and the brown 

 cap is much more brain-like in appearance. Although this plant has 

 frequently been eaten with no bad results vet it has in some way ac- 

 ciuired a bad reputation, and, therefore, for the present at least, it had 

 better be left alone. 



Collected in Champaign county. 



