EDIBLE MUSHROOMS. 73 



WHITE HELVELLA. 



Helvella crispa. 



(Plate IX. Fio. 1.) 



The Morels and Helvellas differ in 

 structure more than in appearance from 

 the residue of Edible Fungi. In Agarics, 

 and other similar organisms, the spores are 

 naked and exposed on the under surface of 

 the cap, but in the present, and its allies, 

 the spores are enclosed in membranous sacs, 

 which are imbedded in the substance of the 

 pileus. The White Helvella is an autumnal 

 species, and grows on shady banks, and 

 amongst short grass. The stem is two or 

 three inches long, deeply furrowed and 

 wrinkled ; and the cap is thin, lobed, and 

 bent back, contorted and twisted in a singu- 

 lar manner. The whole plant is whitish, 

 rather fragile, with little odour, and sweet 

 and nutty in flavour. On account of its 

 dry substance the whole plant dries readily, 

 and may be preserved for winter use, for 



