The 18 Morel Mushroom Species of the United States – Growers Guide

Morel mushrooms are a popular and highly sought-after edible mushroom that grows in various regions of the United States. There are 18 different species of morels found in the US, each with its unique characteristics and growing habits.

The morel mushroom is typically identified by its distinctive cone-shaped cap, which is covered in a honeycomb-like network of ridges and pits. These mushrooms are found in the wild, usually in forests and woodlands, and tend to grow in the springtime. Morels are also popular with foragers and chefs alike, who use them in a variety of culinary dishes due to their unique flavor profile.

The 18 species of morel mushrooms in the United States are as follows: black morel, common morel, early morel, gray morel, half-free morel, small-spored morel, bigfoot morel, wrinkled thimble-cap, white morel, yellow morel, elm morel, big red morel, fire morel, semi liberty morel, snow morel, white-tipped morel, blonde morel, and Texas or western blonde morel.

While some of these species are found throughout the United States, others are more geographically limited to specific regions. Overall, morel mushrooms are a beloved and important part of the American culinary tradition, as well as a fascinating subject for foragers, mushroom enthusiasts, and scientists.

When Is The Best Time To Morel Species?

Knowing the different morel species is crucial for foraging because some species are highly prized as gourmet mushrooms, while others are toxic or even deadly. For example, the highly sought-after black morel (Morchella elata) has a distinctive, honeycomb-like cap and is prized for its nutty, earthy flavor. Gyromitra esculenta, the false morel, is poisonous and if consumed, can lead to serious illness or even death. Therefore, it is essential for foragers to be able to distinguish between different morel species to ensure they are harvesting safe and edible mushrooms. Additionally, understanding the habitats and growing conditions of different morel species can help foragers locate them more easily in the wild.

How Many Morel Species Are There In North America?

There are several species of morels found in North America, with estimates ranging from 19 to over 60 species. However, the exact number is difficult to determine, as many species have overlapping characteristics and can be difficult to differentiate from one another.

The North American Mycological Association estimates that there are at least 20 different species of morels in North America. These include the common yellow morel (Morchella esculenta), the black morel (Morchella elata), and the half-free morel (Morchella semilibera).

However, some experts believe that there may be as many as 50 or more species of morels in North America, including several that have not yet been formally described or named. Regardless of the exact number, morels are highly prized by mushroom hunters and are considered a delicacy by many.

Morel Anatomy

A species of edible mushroom called a morel grows all over the world. Its distinctive flavor and texture make them very sought-after. The anatomy of a morel mushroom is fairly simple. It consists of a hollow stem and a cap. The cap is shaped like a cone or a bell and is covered in deep, irregular pits and ridges. These pits and ridges give the morel its distinctive appearance and also make it easier to distinguish from other mushrooms.

Morel has a hollow stem that is normally white or light in colour. It frequently has a little bend or curve and is shorter than the cap. Cooking brings out the morels’ delicate flavour and scent, which are well renowned. Cleaning morels carefully is essential before cooking them to get rid of any dirt or debris that might be lodged in the cap’s pits and ridges. Overall, the anatomy of a morel mushroom is fairly simple, but its unique appearance and flavour make it a highly prized ingredient in many dishes.

About Yellow Morels

Yellow Morels, scientifically known as Marchelle esculenta, are a species of edible fungi that are highly prized by mushroom hunters and chefs alike. Their characteristic cone-shaped crown, which is honeycombed with a network of ridges and pits, serves to identify them. Yellow Morels are typically found in hardwood forests during the spring season, from March to May, in North America and Europe. They are known for their earthy and nutty flavour and are often sautéed or used in sauces to accompany meat dishes. Despite their popularity, it is important to properly identify mushrooms before consuming them, as some species can be poisonous.

About Black Morels

Black morels (Morchella elata), also known as the “early morel,” are a type of edible mushroom that typically appear in early spring in North America. They have a distinctive conical shape and a dark, almost black, color. Due to their rich, earthy flavor, black morels are greatly sought after by mushroom hunters and are regarded as a delicacy. They are commonly used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and sauces, and are often sautéed or roasted to bring out their nutty taste. However, it’s important to note that while black morels are generally safe to eat, they should always be cooked thoroughly before consumption to avoid potential gastrointestinal issues.

About White Morels

Chefs and foragers alike highly value white morels, also known as Morchella deliciosa, a species of edible mushroom. Their distinctive cone-shaped crown, which has ridges and pits and gives them a honeycomb-like look, serves as their defining feature. White morels often grow in damp places like riverbanks, orchards, and forest clearings in the spring. They are perfect for use in a range of meals, such as soups, sauces, and pastas because of their delicate, nutty flavour and meaty texture. White morels are a nutritious addition to any diet because they are a rich source of protein, fibre, and minerals. However, it’s important to properly identify and cook them as some morels can be toxic if not prepared correctly.

Black Morels vs. Yellow vs. White Morels

Black, yellow, and white morels are all edible fungi that belong to the Morchella genus. Black morels, also known as common morels, have a distinctive black, cone-shaped cap with deep ridges and a hollow, honeycomb-like interior. In hardwood forests, they are typically the first to emerge in the spring.

Yellow morels, also known as blonde morels, have a pale yellow or tan cap with lighter ridges and a similar hollow interior. They can be found in a range of environments, such as grasslands, woods, and burned regions.

White morels, also known as cream morels, have a light-colored cap with a smooth, rounded top and a hollow, spongy interior. They are found in moist, wooded areas and are often associated with conifers.

All three types of morels are prized for their earthy, nutty flavor and are used in a variety of culinary applications, including sautéing, roasting, and stuffing. It’s important to note, however, that morels should always be cooked thoroughly before eating to avoid any potential digestive issues.

Nationwide Morels

Nationwide Morels is a company that specializes in the distribution of fresh and dried morel mushrooms. These delectable fungi are harvested from various regions across the United States, ensuring that customers receive the highest quality and freshest morels available. Nationwide Morels offers a variety of packaging options, including bulk and retail sizes, making it easy for chefs, food enthusiasts, and retailers to incorporate these sought-after mushrooms into their culinary creations. With a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction, Nationwide Morels has become a trusted source for premium quality morels nationwide.

Morchella Americana

Morchella americana, also known as the American morel, is a species of edible mushroom found in North America. It is a member of the Morchellaceae family and is closely related to other morel species found in Europe and Asia. The fruiting body of M. americana is distinctive, with a honeycomb-like appearance and a conical shape. Both the cap and the stem are hollow, and the base of the stem is where the cap is attached. M. americana is frequently picked in the spring and is typically found in deciduous forests. It is frequently used in gourmet cookery and is regarded by many as a delicacy. However, caution should be exercised when foraging for M. americana, as there are poisonous lookalike species that can be mistaken for it.

Morchella Prava

Morchella prava is a species of edible fungus commonly known as the true morel. It is characterized by its distinctive honeycomb-like cap, which is gray to brown in color and can reach up to 12 centimeters in height. The cap is attached to a hollow stem that is lighter in color and has a ribbed surface. Forests frequently include Morchella prava, particularly in locations where the soil has been burned or disturbed. It is appreciated for its earthy flavour and distinctive texture and is a common element in many gourmet recipes. However, it is important to properly identify and cook morels, as some species can be toxic if consumed raw.

Eastern Morels

Eastern Morels are a type of mushroom that are highly prized for their unique, nutty flavor and meaty texture. These mushrooms typically grow in the eastern United States in the springtime, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and even suburban lawns. Eastern Morels have a distinctive honeycomb-like appearance, with a cap that ranges in color from pale yellow to dark brown. They are frequently dried and used as spice. They can be eaten in a number of foods, including soups, sauces, and sautés. During mushroom-foraging, it’s crucial to use caution because some species can be hazardous.

The Two East Coast Black Morels

Morchella Septentrionalis

Morchella septentrionalis, also known as the gray morel or northern morel, is a species of edible fungus found in the northern regions of North America and Europe. It is distinguished by its characteristic hollow stem and cone-shaped crown with pitted surface. The cap ranges in color from grayish-brown to yellowish-brown and can grow up to 10 cm in height. The fungus typically grows in association with hardwood trees, particularly aspen and ash, in moist soil or on decaying wood. M. septentrionalis is highly valued as a gourmet ingredient and is used in a variety of culinary dishes, including soups, sauces, and risottos. However, caution should be taken when foraging for morels, as some species can be toxic if not properly identified.

Morchella Punctipes

Morchella punctipes, commonly known as the dotted stem morel or the black morel, is a type of edible fungus that belongs to the Morchellaceae family. It stands out for its unusual conical shape and dark brown colouring. The top has pits and ridges all over it, giving it a honeycomb-like appearance. The stem is elongated and has distinct blackish dots or scales, which is where the species name punctipes comes from. Dotted stem morels are found in various habitats, including deciduous and coniferous forests, and are often associated with trees such as oak, elm, ash, and pine. They are highly valued as a gourmet ingredient in many cuisines and are sought after by mushroom hunters during their short growing season in the spring.

The Three East Coast Yellow Morels

Morchella Cryptica

Morchella cryptica is a rare species of morel mushroom that was discovered in 2012 in the mountains of western North America. This species is characterized by its unique genetic makeup and distinct physical features, such as its brownish-grey cap and long, narrow ridges. While morels are a popular delicacy among many cultures, M. cryptica has not been studied extensively for its culinary or medicinal properties due to its rarity and limited distribution. However, researchers are continuing to study this fascinating species to better understand its ecological role and potential benefits to human health. M. cryptica may be able to shed light on the variety and evolution of the morel mushroom genus with more research.

Morchella Diminutiva

Morchella diminutiva, commonly known as the dwarf morel, is a species of edible fungus found in North America. As its name suggests, it is a small-sized morel, measuring only a few centimeters in height. Its cap is conical or bell-shaped, with a honeycomb-like structure on the outer surface. The inner surface is smooth and varies in hue from yellow to brown. The stem is white or yellowish, hollow, and sometimes has a brownish tinge at the base. The dwarf morel is typically found in sandy or gravelly soils, often near coniferous trees. It is a highly prized culinary delicacy, with a nutty and earthy flavor. However, due to the potential toxicity of some species, care should be used when gathering and eating any wild mushrooms.

Morchella Virginiana

Morchella virginiana, commonly known as the Virginia morel, is a species of edible fungus found in North America. It has a distinctive honeycomb-like cap that is yellowish-brown in color, with ridges and pits that resemble a sponge. The Virginia morel is typically found growing in hardwood forests during the spring season. It is highly prized by foragers and chefs alike for its earthy, nutty flavor and meaty texture. However, caution should be taken when foraging for morels, as some species can be toxic if not properly identified. Overall, Morchella virginiana is a delicious and sought-after delicacy among mushroom enthusiasts.

Western Morels

Morchella Brunnea

Morchella brunnea, commonly known as the brown morel, is a species of edible fungus belonging to the genus Morchella. It is typically found in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, growing in disturbed areas, such as burned or recently cleared forests, as well as in urban environments. The fruiting body of Morchella brunnea is highly variable in appearance, but is generally brown in color, with a deeply pitted and ridged cap that is attached to the stalk at the base. The brown morel is highly prized by gourmet chefs for its rich, earthy flavor and meaty texture, and is often used in soups, stews, and sauces. However, it should be noted that some individuals may be allergic to Morchella species, so caution should be exercised when consuming them.

Morchella Importuna

Morchella importuna is a species of edible morel fungus, found mainly in North AmericaIt was discovered in 2012, making it a relatively recent addition to the Morchella genus. The fruiting bodies of this fungus are characterized by a honeycomb-like structure with ridges and pits. The stem and cap are joined at the base, and the cap is a light yellowish-brown tint. The stem is whitish and hollow with a fibrous texture. M. importuna is commonly found in disturbed habitats, such as burned or logged areas, and is associated with hardwood trees. This species is considered rare and is not widely distributed, but it is still an important culinary delicacy for those who can find it.

Morchella Snyderi

Morchella snyderi is a species of edible mushroom that belongs to the Morchellaceae family. It was first described in 1984 by mycologist Harry Delbert Thiers, and it is named after Dr. Nancy Smith Weber Snyder, a colleague of Thiers. The mushroom is characterized by its distinctive honeycomb-like cap that is grayish-brown in color, with pits and ridges that are darker than the rest of the cap. North American hardwood forests, notably those in the Pacific Northwest, are home to Morchella snyderi. It is considered a choice edible mushroom, and is often used in gourmet cooking due to its unique texture and flavor.

Morchella Frustrata

Morchella frustrata, commonly known as the “frustrated morel,” is a species of edible fungi belonging to the family Morchellaceae. It is found in North America, particularly in the eastern United States, and is often found growing in disturbed or degraded habitats such as areas recently affected by forest fires or logging.

The fruiting body of M. frustrata is characterized by a conical cap with a wrinkled surface and elongated pits, giving it a distinctive honeycomb-like appearance. Its color can vary from light yellow to dark brown, and it typically grows to a height of 5 to 10 cm.

While M. frustrata is considered edible, it is not as highly prized as some other morel species due to its relatively bland flavor. Nonetheless, it remains a popular ingredient in various culinary dishes, and its unique appearance makes it a favorite among mushroom hunters and enthusiasts.

Morchella Populiphila

Morchella populiphila, also known as the poplar morel, is a type of edible fungus that is found growing in association with poplar trees. This species of morel was first described in 2012, and is one of the most recently discovered species in the Morchella genus. Poplar morels have a distinctive cap that is cone-shaped with a honeycomb-like texture. They are typically grayish-brown in color and can grow up to 10 cm tall. Foragers prize poplar morels highly, and many different cuisines consider them to be a delicacy. However, caution should be exercised when consuming any wild mushroom, as some species can be toxic if not prepared properly.

West Coast Burn-Site Black Morels

West Coast Burn-Site Black Morels are a type of edible mushroom that can be found in areas that have recently experienced a wildfire or controlled burn. These mushrooms are known for their unique flavor, which is described as earthy, nutty, and smoky. They feature a characteristic cone-shaped top with deep ridges and pits and a distinct black colour. Chefs and food lovers admire West Coast Burn-Site Black Morels for their powerful flavour and scarcity. They can be sautéed, roasted, or grilled to bring out their rich, nuanced flavour. They are normally gathered in the spring. But, it’s crucial to keep in mind that wild mushrooms can be harmful if they are not correctly identified, thus it is imperative to speak with a specialist before consuming them.

Morchella Sextelata and Morchella Septimelata

Morchella sextelata and Morchella septimelata (also known by the name Morchella eximia). Morchella sextelata and Morchella septimelata are two closely related species of edible fungi belonging to the genus Morchella. Both species are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes a honeycomb-like cap and a hollow stemThe quantity of pits on their caps, however, allows for differentiation. Morchella sextelata has six pits while Morchella septimelata has seven.

The distinct flavours of both species, which are employed in a wide range of culinary preparations, are highly regarded by mushroom connoisseurs. In North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, they can be found growing in forests, woodlands, and grassy places.

It is important to properly identify these fungi before consuming them as there are poisonous look-alikes that can cause illness or even death.

Morchella Capitata

Morchella capitata is a type of edible fungus commonly known as the “clustered morel.” It belongs to the genus Morchella, which comprises several species of prized culinary mushrooms known for their distinctive honeycomb-like caps. M. capitata is found in North America, Europe, and Asia and typically grows in clusters in sandy or loamy soil under deciduous trees during the spring season.

The cap of M. capitata is shaped like a cone or a bell and ranges in color from pale gray to dark brown. Its distinctive cap is covered in ridges and pits that give it a honeycomb-like appearance. The mushroom’s stem is hollow and light-colored, with a texture that ranges from smooth to slightly rough.

M. capitata is highly sought after by chefs and mushroom enthusiasts for its unique flavor, which is described as nutty and earthy with a hint of sweetness. It frequently appears in soups, sauces, and risottos and can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or fried. Despite its popularity, M. capitata is not commonly cultivated and is mostly harvested in the wild.

Morchella Tomentosa

Morchella tomentosa, commonly known as the “Hairy Morel,” is a species of edible fungi found in North America. It is part of the Morchellaceae family, which includes other morel species. M. tomentosa produces little fruiting bodies that are greyish to light brown in hue. They have a distinctive, cone-shaped cap with a network of ridges and pits that give them a honeycomb-like appearance. The common name comes from the cap’s surface, which is coated in small hairs or fuzz. This species is found growing in deciduous forests during the spring and early summer. While it is edible, it should be cooked thoroughly before consumption to avoid potential gastrointestinal issues.

The Lone White Morel

Morchella Rufobrunnea

A member of the family Morchellaceae, Morchella rufobrunnea is a type of edible mushroom often known as the blushing morel or the red-brown morel. This morel species is distinguished by its hollow, cone-shaped fruiting body and reddish-brown crown. It can be found throughout North America, especially in the western United States and Canada, where it thrives in coniferous forests, frequently close to rivers and streams.

The blushing morel is highly prized by mushroom hunters and gourmet chefs alike for its unique flavor and texture. There are many ways to prepare it, such as grilling, stuffing, and sautéing. However, it should be noted that some individuals may experience allergic reactions to morels, so caution should be taken when consuming them for the first time.

Morel Mushroom Trivia

Morel mushrooms are a beloved delicacy among mushroom enthusiasts for their unique flavor and texture Here are some interesting details about these tasty fungi:

1. Although morels can be found worldwide, they are most frequently seen in North America, Europe, and Asia.
2. The scientific name for morels is Morchella, which comes from the Latin word for “mushroom”.
3. Morels are often referred to as “sponge mushrooms” because of their honeycomb-like appearance.
4. The flavour of these mushrooms, which has been described as nutty, meaty, and even somewhat smokey, is appreciated for being deep and earthy.
5. Morels are often used in French cuisine and are a key ingredient in dishes like chicken with morels and cream sauce.
6. While morels are delicious, they should always be cooked thoroughly as they contain a toxin that can cause stomach upset if eaten raw.
7. Morels are notoriously difficult to cultivate, which is why they are typically foraged in the wild.
8. The appearance of morels can vary greatly depending on their environment, with some species sporting darker caps and others having a lighter, more yellowish hue.
9. Morels have reportedly been used in traditional medicine to cure a number of diseases, according to some who think they have therapeutic qualities.
10. Morels are often associated with springtime and are considered a harbinger of the season’s arrival.

FAQs About Morel Mushrooms

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Morel mushrooms are a prized delicacy among food enthusiasts and foragers alike. These elusive mushrooms are known for their unique texture and rich, earthy flavor, making them a highly sought-after ingredient in many dishes. When searching for morels, it’s crucial to use caution because some varieties may be harmful. If you’re new to foraging, it’s best to go with an experienced guide or start by purchasing Morels from a trusted source. Whether you’re an experienced forager or simply a fan of gourmet cuisine, Morel mushrooms are sure to de