Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Appearance: White, globe-like clusters of long spines.

Flavor Profile: Sweet, reminiscent of seafood, particularly crab or lobster.

Growth Conditions:
Substrate: Hardwood sawdust, supplemented with wheat bran.
Humidity: 85–95%.
Fresh Air Exchange (FAE): Moderate; requires 1–3 air exchanges per day.
Temperature:
- Colonization: 70–75°F
- Fruiting: 60–70°F

Yield:
5 lb substrate block: 1–2 lbs total.
Flushes: 2–3
Per Flush: 0.5–1 lb for the first flush; subsequent flushes taper off.

Popularity: Increasingly popular for its nutritional benefits and unique texture.

Uses: Culinary (soups, teas), medicinal.

Notes: Prefers cooler temperatures for fruiting; sensitive to overly wet conditions.