Wrinkled brain cap, stuffed stem. Contains gyromitrin, which becomes monomethylhydrazine.

A reddish-brown, lobed, brain-like cap that is not pitted in a honeycomb. Interior is cottony or chambered, not a clean hollow.

Habitat

Woods in early spring, often the same weeks as true morels.

Season

April–May.

Size

2–5 in

Field marks

Brain folds; not hollow

Do not eat. Toxins can wreck liver and blood. Some old-timers still eat them — that is not a reason to.