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Reishi

Ganoderma lucidum

A species of Artist's bracket and allies, Also known as Lacquered bracket, Shiny polyporus

The reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a large shelf fungus that grows as a bracket off the sides of trees, or occasionally as a rosette on the tops of stumps. Its surface is smooth and shiny. Growing wild from warm temperate zones to the subtropics, the reishi is also cultivated on grain and sawdust for commercial use. The mushroom has cultural significance in some Chinese cultures.

Cap Diameter:

15 - 30 cm

Odor:

Mildly woody, not strongly aromatic.

General Info About Reishi

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Attributes of Reishi

Cap Diameter

15 - 30 cm

Height

5 - 25 cm

Cap

Cap 25 cm across; hard, grooved, varnish-like

Cap Surfaces

Visible lines or stripes

Stem

Stem 5 - 20 cm long; red-brown

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Brown

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Brown to reddish-brown

Odor

Mildly woody, not strongly aromatic.

Body Color

Brown

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods

You can find Reishi by these plants:

Honey locust, Spruces, Firs

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Not common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Reishi

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Reishi

The reishi grows in woods and wooded areas and it's primarily associated with deciduous trees. It is a parasitic fungus that grows at the bases of living trees or stumps, feeding on dead or decaying woody debris.

Distribution Area of Reishi

North America, Europe, South America, Asia

Uses of Reishi

Reishi is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Asian healing practices. It's highly valued for purported immune system support and potential anti-cancer benefits. While not a common culinary choice due to its tough texture, reishi is popular in supplement form or as a tea. Its collection is sought after for these health applications, though it's crucial to consult healthcare professionals before use due to possible interactions with medications.

Scientific Classification of Reishi

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Shelf fungi

Family

Ganodermataceae

Genus

Artist's bracket and allies

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Tips for Finding Reishi

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When is the Best Time to Find Reishi

Search for reishi in late summer to early autumn when the air is humid and temperatures are mild, usually after periods of rain but not during extreme heat or cold snaps.

What are Some Tips for Finding Reishi

Seek out mature forests or parks with a prevalence of hardwood trees such as oak and maple.
Look at the base of living trees or on stumps of recently fallen hardwood trees for reishi growths.
Investigate areas where trees have been damaged or are decaying, as reishi often colonizes these sites.
Inspect each potential tree base and stump closely, as reishi can sometimes blend in with its woody substrate.

How to Clean and Preserve Reishi

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How to Clean Reishi

Gently tap against a surface to dislodge insects and dirt. Trim overly dirty parts. Use a damp towel to remove remaining dirt and check for insects and larvae. Minimize water exposure to prevent waterlogging.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Reishi

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark place in airtight containers to prevent reabsorption of moisture.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures a controlled, consistent drying environment, removing moisture effectively.

Oven drying: Quick method utilizing low heat that can be regulated for even drying.

Air drying: Utilizes natural airflow and is suited for less humid climates.