(helvella-leucomelaena)
The White Footed Elf Cup is pretty rare here on Vancouver Island. It can be found growing in the Pacific Northwest occasionally. If you get to see them fruiting, you are a lucky mushroom hunter. Helvella leucomelaena can be recognized by its cup shape and colour; the inner body is a dull greyish-black to dark greyish-brown, and the exterior is a greyish-black and white colour. The contrasting colours are the basis for the species name.
In North America, this fungus is really quite rare, but it has been seen growing in California, Alaska, British Columbia, and Vancouver Island. It can also be found growing in South America and Europe. It prefers to grow in coniferous forests. The white foot may be hidden or obscured by leaves, or it could be partially buried in the soil.
The consumption of this mushroom is not recommended, as similar species in the Helvellaceae family contain the toxin gyromitrin. It’s a pretty cool-looking fungus, and one should feel lucky to see it, but just enjoy the sight and leave it be.