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Elm oyster

Hypsizygus ulmarius

A species of Hypsizygus, Also known as Elm mushroom

As its common name suggests, the elm oyster(Hypsizygus ulmarius) is most commonly found fruiting on elm trees. Its scientific name references its tendency to position itself in the higher points of any individual tree. The fruit bodies may grow alone or in small clusters of two or three, and rarely more.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 30 cm

Odor:

Faintly earthy, not particularly distinct.

General Info About Elm oyster

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Attributes of Elm oyster

Cap Diameter

5 - 30 cm

Height

10 - 20 cm

Cap

Cap 6 - 30 cm across; convex to flat; white to yellowish; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Adnate, shortly decurrent; crowded; white to cream to pale ocher

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 6 - 13 cm long, 2 - 3 cm thick; white to yellowish; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

Firm; white

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White to buff

Odor

Faintly earthy, not particularly distinct.

Body Color

Yellow

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods

You can find Elm oyster by these plants:

Elms, Sorbus, Wych elm

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Widespread but rather uncommon

Endangered Species

How to Identify Elm oyster

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Elm oyster

The elm oyster is associated with broadleaf deciduous trees, mostly elm (Ulmus) and boxelder (Acer negundo). It grows on the injured living wood, forming its fruitbody on tree wounds or scar sites in the trunk.

Distribution Area of Elm oyster

North America,Europe,northern Asia

Uses of Elm oyster

Elm oyster is an edible mushroom appreciated for its culinary versatility. Popular in many cuisines, it is sought after for its firm texture and mild flavor, often used in soups, stir-fries, and as a meat substitute. Its availability peaks in the cooler seasons, enhancing its appeal to foragers and cultivators. While elm oyster doesn't require special precautions when cooked properly, consumers should always ensure they have correctly identified this species before consumption to avoid mistaking it for inedible look-alikes.

Scientific Classification of Elm oyster

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Lyophyllaceae

Genus

Hypsizygus

Toxicity and Edibility of Elm oyster

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Edibility of Elm oyster

Elm oysters are edible, although they are unrelated to the more commonly sought-after "oyster mushrooms" of genus Pleurotus. Though sometimes hunted in the wild, they are also a very popular species for home cultivation. They boast a delicious flavor, although their texture can be a bit tough (especially towards the base of the stalk, which is often cut off). Elm oysters should always be cooked before they're eaten, and they can be used in a wide variety of soups, stews, and pasta dishes.

Similar Species to Elm oyster

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Tips for Finding Elm oyster

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When is the Best Time to Find Elm oyster

Seek out elm oyster in the late summer to fall when temperatures start to drop but before the first frost. Ideal conditions are after rainfall in cooler weather.

What are Some Tips for Finding Elm oyster

Examine the bases and wounds of hardwood trees, focusing on elms.
Look for elm oyster at various heights, from ground level to higher tree wounds.
Search for clusters of white to cream-colored mushrooms, a common trait of elm oyster.
Inspect damaged wood areas for growths, as elm oyster commonly appears there.
Visit wooded areas with a prevalence of elms, which are prime habitats for elm oyster.

How to Clean and Preserve Elm oyster

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How to Clean Elm oyster

To clean elm oyster, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush and wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking as it may affect the integrity of the mushroom.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Elm oyster

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 18 months

Store in an airtight container, cool, dark location, with silica gel for moisture control.

Dehydrator drying: Highly effective due to consistent airflow and temperature control.

Oven drying: Good for quick drying at low heat to retain structure.

Air drying: Best in arid climates with ample ventilation; slower process.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Elm oyster

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly immersing in boiling water, then cooling and drying to preserve texture.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Elm oyster

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

3 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow air circulation and reduce moisture buildup.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrapping lightly in a clean, damp cloth helps maintain humidity without waterlogging.

Original Packaging Storage: If sold in a breathable container, keep them in it but ensure it's clean and dry inside.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes in a plastic bag allow excess moisture escape and reduce spoilage.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Place a paper towel or clean cloth in the container to absorb excess moisture.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Elm oyster

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Hypsizygus marmoreus

Veiled oyster

Pleurotus dryinus