Morel mushrooms commonly grow around several types of trees with which they have symbiotic or ecological associations:
- Elm Trees : Often considered the "king" of morel trees, morels frequently grow around dying or dead elm trees, especially those with loose bark. Elms are widespread and a prime indicator for morel hunters, particularly in the Midwest and northern U.S.
- Cottonwood Trees : Morels are commonly found near cottonwoods, especially along riverbanks and floodplains where soil conditions are loamy or sandy but not swampy. Cottonwoods are a staple tree for morel hunting in western regions.
- Sycamore Trees : Morels often grow at the bases of sycamores, particularly in floodplains and riverbanks where spring flooding disturbs the soil, creating ideal conditions for morels.
- Tulip Poplar Trees : Popular in the South and Southeast, tulip poplars are associated with morels, especially later in the morel season. They grow tall and straight, often near creeks or ponds, and morels can be found underneath them.
- Ash Trees : There is evidence that morels grow symbiotically with ash trees in some regions, further south of the Midwest.
- Apple Trees : Occasionally, morels are found near apple trees, though less commonly than the others listed.
In summary, the most reliable trees to check for morels are elm (especially dead or dying), cottonwood, sycamore, tulip poplar, and ash trees. Each of these trees provides the right soil and ecological conditions that encourage morel growth in spring.
