When young this fungus is very pale or even whitish overall and it displays a central, stem like structure (A). Gradually the upper surface darkens to brown and the stem becomes negligible in proportion to the cup (C,D). The brown upper surface is usually somewhat wrinkled near the center. Under the surface it is white and minutely fuzzy. As it ages it attains a flattened irregular shape while it is round and cup-like when young. The mature fungus is 2 ½ to 5 inches wide. The margin is often splitting. It is attached centrally without a stem.
This fungus grows on rotted wood or wood chips. It attaches to wood under the center. It is seen in May and occasionally throughout the summer. Despite the name it is uncommon in Fontenelle Forest (Handsome Hollow).
As indicated by its Latin name, Peziza repanda typically expands broadly in age. This feature and a preference for fruiting on or near rotting wood are important field marks. Similar colored mushrooms of the same genus are unfortunately common. Most require a microscope to identify with certainty.
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