Helvella atra Black Saddle

Helvella atra, Black Saddle, is an uncommon ascomycetous species which is rarely recorded in West Glamorgan. The fruiting body can be up to 8cm tall with a brown unfurrowed stalk, unlike that of Helvella lacunosa, and a two-lobed, dull black, brown or charcoal coloured cap that has a burnt look about it. It occurs along paths and tracks usually near trees, sometimes in small groups but often singly.