Morchella sp.
(Black Morel)

Habitat

They are generally found above 7000ft on years when there is sufficient moisture otherwise near streams where it stays wet. Some morels such as M. snyderi are associated with Douglas Fir and other conifers. Other morels such as M. brunnea with Aspen. Burn morels are typically found a year or two after a wildfire if conditions are right. They can continue for several years but become less prevalent.

Description

Black morels can be rare or even non-existent some years and very abundant others. They can be difficult to spot because they look very much like a pine cone. Generally fruiting from late May into July moving up in elevation although some years they can show all the way into October especially in forest burns.

Colorado Black Morel Species:
Naturals: Morchella brunnea (Aspen), Morchella snyderi (wrinkled stipe, Doug fir), mel-8.

Burn associated: Morchella tomentosa, Morchella eximia (septimelata),
Morchella sextelata, Morchella capitata.

Some of these look identical are can become nearly impossible to identify to species. M. snyderi and M. tomentosa are two of the easiest that can be identified by both habitat and morphological characteristics. Many of the burn morels can only be differentiated by DNA and microscopy.

They taste amazing and are highly sought after however some people can have allergic reactions. Morels can be poisonous raw so always be sure that they are thoroughly cooked.

Be careful not to confuse with the false morels Verpa bohemica or Gyromitra species which can be very poisonous. Gyromitra montana being the exception. True morels are hollow when sliced lengthwise.

Location

Colorado

Spore Print

Cream

Edibility

Choice

Color

Brown

Last Updated

Mar 16 2024 09:59 AM

DISCLAIMER: We intend information on this web site to be accurate. It is possible that some information may contain errors. If you find something that is inaccurate or should be looked at please contact us at comments at coloradomushrooms dot com. You should always be 100% sure on your identification before consuming any wild mushrooms. It is best to consult a local expert or join your local mycological society. This web site takes no responsiblity if you ingest wild mushrooms.