Discina perlata
# Discina perlata

Discina perlata, commonly known as pig's ears is a brown to tannish, wrinkled, cup- or ear-shaped fungus, sometimes with short, stout stalk. The spores of D. perlata are quite similar to those of mushrooms in the genus Gyromitra, so that some mycologists classify it there.

## Description

The cup measures 2–10 cm (3⁄4–3+7⁄8 in) wide; with a disc-like, whitish exterior, and a dark brown to tan interior. The cup is often wrinkled to convoluted, with the edges turned downward. The flesh is brittle. The stipe (when present) is 0.5–1 cm (3⁄16–3⁄8 in) long and thick; it is brownish-tan in color.

It is considered edible by some authors, but not others; it can be confused with other potentially toxic species. It should be cooked before consumption.

### Microscopic characteristics

The spores are 30–35 x 12–14 μm, spindle shaped, minutely warted, with three oil drops and knobs at each end, located in the cup.

### Similar species

Disciotis venosa is more deeply veined, and has smooth spores; it is typically found in deciduous woods. Other similar species of Discina must be differentiated microscopically. Peziza repanda is also similar. In the Pacific Northwest, D. leucoxantha and D. olympiana are similar.

## Habitat and distribution

It is found singularly or in groups, on humus or rotten wood in coniferous areas; near melting snowbanks in western mountains. It is found in temperate areas of North America. It comes into fruiting from May–July.

