Half-Free Morel

Morchella punctipes

Family: Morchellaceae

Also called: Half-Free Morel, Peckerhead, Dogpecker Morel

Half-Free Morel (Morchella punctipes) — Photo:This image was created by user Mike Hopping (AvlMike) at Mushroom Observer , a source for mycological images. You can co(CC BY-SA 3.0)View original source →

Overview

Cap is attached to the stem only halfway down — morphologically distinct from true morels. Riparian elm and ash bottoms. April. Edible but thinner-fleshed; some report mild GI upset.

Edibility

Edible

Rarity

uncommon

Trophic mode

saprotrophic

Typical peak

Late Apr

Season

Mid Apr – early May — typical fruiting months: Mar, Apr.

Host trees & substrate

Riparian elm
Ash bottoms
Sycamore

Where it grows

Appalachian Highlands
Northeast
Upper Midwest / Great Lakes
Great Plains
Texas
Rocky Mountains

See live fruiting predictions for Half-Free Morel on the forecast home page, or browse the full field guide.

Always confirm wild-mushroom identification with multiple sources and a knowledgeable local expert before consuming. Read the foraging safety guide.