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Beech mushroom

Hypsizygus tessulatus

A species of Hypsizygus

The beech mushroom is an edible mushroom widely cultivated in temperate regions. It is very similar to the Elm oyster mushroom (Hypsizygus ulmarius), but the beech mushroom grows in clusters while the Elm oyster mushroom usually grows alone. It is thought to be called the Beech mushroom because it mainly grows on beech trees in the wild.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 8 cm

Odor:

Subtly earthy, not easily identifiable.

General Info About Beech mushroom

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Attributes of Beech mushroom

Cap Diameter

4 - 8 cm

Height

4 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 4 - 8 cm; convex; whitish to buff or very pale tan; dry, bald ; with a slightly inrolled margin

Cap Shape

Convex

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Adnate; close, short-gills frequent; whitish; not bruising

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 3 - 8 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; equal or slightly club-shaped; whitish to very pale tan; dry, bald or very finely silky

Stem Shapes

Club Shaped

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Firm; white; unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White to buff

Odor

Subtly earthy, not easily identifiable.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Bronze

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Clustered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods

You can find Beech mushroom by these plants:

Box elder, Sugar maple, Populus, European mountain-ash

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed in eastern and northern North America

Endangered Species

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Habitat of Beech mushroom

Beech mushroom often emerge in clusters on living or dead wood of hardwood trees, specifically favoring beech and oak.

Uses of Beech mushroom

Beech mushroom is a popular edible mushroom, prized for its delicate texture and mild flavor. It's commonly used in culinary dishes, especially in Asian cuisine. Available year-round, beech mushroom is cultivated for its versatility and nutritional value. While it's safe to eat, consumers should ensure proper identification before consumption to avoid confusion with similar-looking toxic species.

Scientific Classification of Beech mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Lyophyllaceae

Genus

Hypsizygus

Similar Species to Beech mushroom

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Tips for Finding Beech mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find Beech mushroom

The best time to find beech mushroom is during late fall and early winter, as they thrive in cooler temperatures. Search after a period of rain when the weather is not yet freezing.

What are Some Tips for Finding Beech mushroom

Search nearby hardwoods like beech and oak for clusters of beech mushroom.
Inspect areas with fallen branches or deadwood, as beech mushroom may grow on decaying organic matter.
Look for beech mushroom at the base or wounds of living trees, where the wood is exposed.
Gently clear leaf litter or debris, which could be hiding emerging beech mushroom.
Note substrate consistency around potential beech mushroom growths, as it prefers hard, woody surfaces.

How to Clean and Preserve Beech mushroom

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How to Clean Beech mushroom

To clean beech mushroom, remove any substrate remnants gently by hand. If necessary, briefly rinse or wipe the surface with a damp cloth, being careful to preserve their texture and avoid waterlogging, as beech mushroom absorb moisture easily.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Beech mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers; cool, dark, and dry place; maintain low humidity; ensure good air circulation.

Dehydrator drying: Promotes uniform drying, lessens the risk of spoilage, effective for high moisture content.

Oven drying: Consistent low heat can efficiently reduce water content, suitable for controlled drying.

Air drying: Natural method, no energy required, slower process, best in low-humidity environments.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Beech mushroom

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch for 2-3 minutes, then plunge into ice water, drain, and freeze.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Beech mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Cardboard Box Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

1 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Perforated paper bags allow excess moisture to escape, preventing the mushrooms from becoming slimy.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Wrapping mushrooms loosely in plastic with holes keeps them dry, but allows some breathing.

Cardboard Box Storage: Storing in a cardboard box lined with paper towels absorbs moisture and prevents decay.

Cloth Wrapping: Encasing mushrooms in a slightly damp, clean cloth maintains hydration and freshness.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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