Similar in uses, though differing in appearance, are the species of _Helvella_, of which several are edible. In both these genera, the individuals can be dried so readily that they are the more valuable on that account, as they can be used for flavouring in winter when fresh specimens of any kind of fungus are difficult to procure. The most common English species is _Helvella crispa_, Fr., but _Helvella lacunosa_, Fr., is declared to be equally good, though not so large and somewhat rare. _Helvella infula_, Fr., is also a large species, but is not British, although it extends to North America, as also does _Helvella sulcata_, Afz. Intermediate between the morel and _Helvella_ is the species which was formerly included with the latter, but now known as _Gyromitra esculenta_, Fr.[AE] It is rarely found in Great Britain, but is more common on the continent, where it is held in esteem. A curious stipitate fungus, with a pileus like a hood, called _Verpa digitaliformis_, Pers.,[AF] is uncommon in England, but Vittadini states that it is sold in the Italian markets, although only to be recommended when no other esculent fungus offers, which is sometimes the case in spring.[AG] Two or three species of _Peziza_ have the reputation of being esculent, but they are of very little value; one of these is _Peziza acetabulum_, L., another is _Peziza cochleata_, Huds., and a third is _Peziza venosa_, Pers.[AH] The latter has the most decided nitrous odour, and also fungoid flavour, whilst the former seem to have but little to recommend them; we have seen whole baskets full of _Peziza cochleata_ gathered in Northamptonshire as a substitute for morels. A very interesting genus of edible fungi, growing on evergreen beech trees in South America, has been named _Cyttaria_. One of these, _Cyttaria Darwinii_, B., occurs in Terra del Fuego, where it was found by Mr. C. Darwin[AI] growing in vast numbers, and forming a very essential article of food for the natives. Another is _Cyttaria Berteroi_, B., also seen by Mr. Darwin in Chili, and eaten occasionally, but apparently not so good as the preceding.[AJ] Another species is _Cyttaria Gunnii_, B., which abounds in Tasmania, and is held in repute amongst the settlers for its esculent properties.[AK] [Illustration: FIG. 44.--_Cyttaria Gunnii_, B.]