Featured Foraged Fungi: The Magic of Morel Mushrooms
Ah, morel season—the beloved, mysterious time when forest floors reveal one of nature’s most elusive edible treasures. Morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.) are a highly prized springtime delicacy known for their honeycomb appearance, earthy aroma, and rich, nutty flavor. They're not just gourmet, they're gold for foragers.
There are several types of morels found across the U.S., including:
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Black morels (Morchella elata group) – Found earlier in the season, typically under hardwoods. (Pictured above)
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Yellow or golden morels (Morchella esculentoides group) – Often show up later, near elm, ash, or apple trees. (Pictured below - 2024)
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Half-free morels (Morchella punctipes) – Recognizable by their cap being partially attached to the stem.
In Michigan, morel hunting is both passion and practice. This year, the season started later, likely due to a slow, dry spring. When you live in rhythm with the land—gardening, farming, foraging—you begin to understand that nature doesn’t yield on command.
Just last year, many Michigan black walnut and peach trees didn’t bear fruit. It's a reminder: we don’t control the outcome—we prepare for it. This year, in spite of fewer rains and thorny overgrowths, I’ve managed to find Black Morels in hidden woodland spots. I’ve had to brave brambles, duck under mulberry canopies, and scout before poison ivy claims those paths for the season.
Once the undergrowth thickens, the window closes. One day the path is clear; the next, it’s walled off by green.
Tips for Finding Morels:
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Timing is everything: Look during a string of warm days after rainfall, when ground temps hit 50–60°F.
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Know your trees: Morels often grow near:
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Dying or dead elm trees
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Ash, poplar, apple, and sycamore
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Scan disturbed areas: Burn sites, logged woods, or old orchards often harbor morels.
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Don’t over-pick: Leave some for next year, and always forage responsibly.
MICOPEIA BOTANICA Tea House + Nursery: A Living Dream Unfolds
We are slowly and lovingly building out the MICOPEIA BOTANICA Tea House + Nursery, and every corner now has a story. From vintage lamps and accent pieces to a hanging basket clock that looks like an old produce scale now resting in the front window, the magic is real.
The nursery plants are thriving—peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers are growing strong and ready for transplant into the greenhouse, while others will stay in-house for locals to enjoy when we officially open next month.
One of my favorite new additions? A bold entryway rug featuring four tigers, which I’ve affectionately named “The Four Seasons.” Tigers represent power, protection, clarity, and courage—qualities we embrace in every season of life and growth.
Upcoming Invite-Only Events (May & June)
To celebrate our progress and community, we’re hosting invite & RSVP-only events ahead of our grand public opening:
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May 15: Afternoon Tea with local women changemakers
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Board Game Nights in our cozy new space
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Tea Tastings & After Hours – Bring your laptop, a journal, or just your favorite mug and breathe in healing stillness
Expect limited guests, cozy corners, herbs all around, and a real sense of belonging. Sign-ups will begin next month so make sure you are checking your emails!
Help Us Grow: Gofundme Update
This journey is possible thanks to you. If you’ve donated, shared, or simply cheered us on—thank you. If you haven’t yet, know that even $1 matters. Your support helps fund the final touches: from signage to seating, from tea stock to staff wages.
💚 Click here to support our GoFundMe and help bring the MICOPEIA dream to life.
Closing Thoughts
From mushrooms beneath your feet to tigers at the door, we’re reminded that each season unfolds in its own time. Thank you for walking alongside us.
With love,
R. A. Massey
Founder, MICOPEIA BOTANICA
