Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

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 Scientific Name: Hericium erinaceus

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 Appearance: White, shaggy clusters resembling a lion’s mane.

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 Flavor Profile: Mild and seafood-like, often compared to crab or lobster.

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 Growth Conditions:

• Substrate: Prefers sawdust supplemented with bran, hardwood logs, or Coco Coir mixtures.

• Temperature:

• Colonization: 65–75°F

• Fruiting: 60–68°F (lower temperature enhances fruit size).

• Humidity: 85–95%.

• Fresh Air Exchange (FAE): Moderate; requires 2–3 air exchanges per day.

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 Yield:

• 5 lb substrate block: 1.5–2 lbs total.

• Flushes: 2–3

• Per Flush: 0.8–1 lb for the first flush; subsequent flushes taper off.

• 10 lbs substrate in monotub: 4–5 lbs total.

• Flushes: 3–4

• Per Flush: 1.5–2 lbs for the first flush; subsequent flushes taper off.

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 Popularity: Extremely popular for its health benefits, especially for brain and nerve support.

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 Uses: Culinary (soups, stir-fries), medicinal (extracts, teas).

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 Notes: Grows best when surface moisture is carefully maintained; avoid excessive misting to prevent contamination.