Lion's Mane Mushroom
A species of monkey's head, Also known as Mountain-priest Mushroom, Monkey Head Mushroom, Lion's Mane, Unbranched Hericium, Old Man's Beard Scientific name : Hericium erinaceus Genus : monkey's head
Lion's Mane Mushroom, A species of monkey's head
Also known as:
Mountain-priest Mushroom, Monkey Head Mushroom, Lion's Mane, Unbranched Hericium, Old Man's Beard
Scientific name: Hericium erinaceus
Genus: monkey's head
Photo By Richard Sullivan (enchplant) , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Lion's Mane Mushroom(Hericium erinaceus) is easily identifiable by its characteristic appearance, reminiscent of the majestic mane of a lion. It often sprouts along hardwoods, which may be living or dead. Scientists thus debate whether this species is truly parasitic or merely saprophytic in nature.
Colors
Yellow
White
Habitat
The lion's Mane Mushroom grows in woods and it's mostly related to old woodlands. The species grows on damaged or dead deciduous trees, often appearing on logs or growing on the injured living trees.
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People often ask
General Info
Edibility
Lion's Mane Mushrooms are highly sought-after edible fungi that are usually harvested during late summer or early fall. The species is also cultivated in large quantities. This mushroom boasts a strong flavor that is often compared to lobster or other seafood. It can be prepared in a wide variety of ways, too—it may be eaten raw, cooked and incorporated into stir-fries and other savory dishes, or even dried to be used in teas. Lion's Mane Mushrooms have become increasingly popular ingredients in gourmet cooking, so don't be surprised if you see one on the menu at a fancy restaurant!
Habitat
The lion's Mane Mushroom grows in woods and it's mostly related to old woodlands. The species grows on damaged or dead deciduous trees, often appearing on logs or growing on the injured living trees.
Growth Form
Saprobic, parasitic; solitary, gregarious
Sporocarp Height
8 inches
Cap Diameter
12 inches
Endangered Species
No
Habit
Saprophytic
Substrate
On wood
Smell
Not distinctive
Spore Print
White
Species Status
Least Concern
Distribution Area
North America,Europe,northern Asia
How to identify it?
Similar Species
Photo By Richard Sullivan (enchplant) , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Russulales Family
Tooth fungi Genus
monkey's head Species
Lion's Mane Mushroom