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Lion's Mane Mushroom

Hericium erinaceus

A species of monkey's head, Also known as Mountain-priest Mushroom, Monkey Head Mushroom, Lion's Mane, Unbranched Hericium, Old Man's Beard

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.

Cap Diameter:

8 - 16 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Lion's Mane Mushroom

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Attributes of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Cap Diameter

8 - 16 cm

Height

5 - 20 cm

Cap

8 - 16 cm across; spines white, brownish to yellowish in age

Stem

with at most only a rudimentary stem

Flesh

White, unchanging when sliced

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Yellow

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods

You can find Lion's Mane Mushroom by these plants:

European beech

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Lion's Mane Mushroom

Fruiting Body Flesh Habit & Habitat

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Habitat of Lion's Mane Mushroom

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.

Distribution Area of Lion's Mane Mushroom

North America,Europe,northern Asia

Uses of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Lion's Mane Mushroom is a culinary delight, sought after for its unique taste and texture. It's popular in gourmet cooking, often used in soups and sauces. Medicinally, lion's Mane Mushroom is valued for its potential neuroprotective properties and is incorporated into supplements. While it's edible without major precautions, consumers should ensure proper identification before consumption to avoid confusion with look-alikes.

Scientific Classification of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Tooth fungi

Genus

monkey's head

Toxicity and Edibility of Lion's Mane Mushroom

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Edibility of Lion's Mane Mushroom

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!

Similar Species to Lion's Mane Mushroom

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Tips for Finding Lion's Mane Mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find Lion's Mane Mushroom

Seek lion's Mane Mushroom in late summer to fall when temperate forests start to cool. Post-rain weather with daytime temperatures around 60-70°F (15-21°C) enhances chances of finding mature specimens.

What are Some Tips for Finding Lion's Mane Mushroom

Look for lion's Mane Mushroom on hardwoods like oak and beech trees, particularly where there are visible wounds or branch scars.
Search around the base of living trees or on downed wood in hardwood forests.
Inspect fallen logs or stumps, as lion's Mane Mushroom can fruit on these substrates.
Scan for the distinctive spines of lion's Mane Mushroom, which hang in clumps, making them easier to spot against the bark.

How to Clean and Preserve Lion's Mane Mushroom

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How to Clean Lion's Mane Mushroom

To clean lion's Mane Mushroom, gently shake to remove any loose debris and use a soft brush for persistent dirt. Avoid soaking as this may affect their structure. Handle carefully to preserve the delicate spines.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in airtight containers, in cool, dark, dry place, and with desiccants.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures thorough drying while preserving structure and quality.

Oven drying: Settings below 50°C with door slightly open to aid moisture escape.

Air drying: Natural method, efficient in dry, warm environments with good air circulation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Freezing Duration

3 - 6 months

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Lion's Mane Mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Cardboard Box Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

1 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows for airflow, reduces moisture build-up, and prevents spoilage by absorbing excess moisture.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Offers balanced humidity and air exchange, limiting mold growth while retaining moisture.

Cardboard Box Storage: Sturdy structure protects from bruising; breathable material maintains dryness and air circulation.

Cloth Wrapping: Utilizes a clean, dry cloth to cover and protect from moisture while enabling air flow.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Layering bottom and top with paper towels absorbs moisture and keeps mushrooms dry.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Lion's Mane Mushroom

Bear's head tooth

Hericium americanum