Elm oyster
A species of Hypsizygus, Also known as Elm mushroom Scientific name : Hypsizygus ulmarius Genus : Hypsizygus
Elm oyster, A species of Hypsizygus
Also known as:
Elm mushroom
Scientific name: Hypsizygus ulmarius
Genus: Hypsizygus
Photo By Matt Welter (mattfungus) , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
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.
Colors
Yellow
White
Habitat
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.
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People often ask
General Info
Edibility
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.
Habitat
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.
Growth Form
Saprobic, parasitic; solitary
Sporocarp Height
4 inches
Cap Diameter
7 inches
Endangered Species
No
Substrate
On wood
Smell
Odor slightly mealy; taste mild
Spore Print
White to buff
Species Status
Widespread but rather uncommon
Distribution Area
North America,Europe,northern Asia
How to identify it?
Similar Species
Photo By Matt Welter (mattfungus) , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Gilled fungi Family
Lyophyllaceae Genus
Hypsizygus Species
Elm oyster