Can there be any doubt that spring has sprung? Verpa are popping their pretty little heads above the duff and announcing their presence!
Don't doubt it for a minute! Yesterday, my friend and I were wandering trails not too far from here and were greeted by the heavenly Verpa bohemica. What a lovely surprise, although it shouldn't have been too surprising because they usually make their appearance this time of year and in this rather dampish landscape dotted with cottonwood seeds.
Even though it has been several years since I hunted for Verpa, the sheer joy of these forays is still forefront in my memories. How can I forget the countless baby snakes that seem to litter and slitter thru the grounds that hold the Verpa. Oh, well, even those of us who are ophiophobic, can set aside our fears for the sake of gathering these little Verpa gems.
Caution: Verpa do require special preparation if one is to consume them without side effects. After the thimble-like caps are separated from the stems, parboil the caps before preparing them for further preparation in order to release their Gyromitrin-like toxin which, when ingested, produces monomethylbydrazine (MMH), the leading chemical in rocket fuel, according to the University of Alaska. Even with this step, it is reported that some people may still experience a bit of discomfort, such as gastrointestinal upset and lack of coordination, from ingesting Verpa. I never have. In fact, I value Verpa for their deep earthy notes. Be sure to check out our post, Verpa 101, for additional information.
Welcome back to spring,
welcome back Verpa!