Appearance: Brown, convex to flat caps with a distinctive white edge as they mature.
Flavor Profile: Rich, umami, with a slightly woody taste.
Growth Conditions:
Substrate: Hardwood logs or enriched sawdust.
Humidity: 80–90%.
Fresh Air Exchange (FAE): Moderate; requires 2–3 air exchanges per day.
Temperature:
– Colonization: 70–75°F
– Fruiting: 50–60°F
Yield:
5 lb substrate block: 3–4 lbs total.
Flushes: 3–4
Per Flush: 1–1.5 lbs for the first flush; subsequent flushes diminish.
Popularity: Highly prized in culinary circles for its texture and flavor.
Uses: Culinary (stir-fries, grilled), traditional Asian medicine.
Notes: Requires a cold shock to initiate fruiting; sensitive to direct sunlight.