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Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Lion's Mane is the brain mushroom — a stunning cascading white fungus that looks like a living waterfall. Prized for its lobster-like flavor and remarkable cognitive benefits, it's our flagship species.
DID YOU KNOW?
Buddhist monks have used Lion's Mane for centuries to enhance focus during meditation.
OPTIMAL CONDITIONS
Temperature
65–75°F
Humidity
85–95%
Fresh Air Exchange
High
SUBSTRATE OPTIONS
Hardwood Sawdust
Preferred. Oak or beech supplemented with wheat bran.
Hardwood Logs
Outdoor cultivation on fresh-cut oak logs.
GROWING TIMELINE
Inoculation
1 day
Introduce grain spawn to sterilized substrate.
Colonization
14-21 days
Mycelium spreads through the substrate in warm, dark conditions.
Fruiting initiation
3-5 days
Introduce fresh air and light to trigger pin formation.
Harvest
7-10 days
Cascading spines develop into full fruiting bodies ready for harvest.
HARVEST TIPS
- ✓Harvest when spines are 1-2cm long, before they start to yellow
- ✓Cut at the base with a clean knife
- ✓Best eaten fresh — doesn't store well beyond 3-5 days
IN THE KITCHEN
- 🍳Lobster/crab flavor when seared in butter
- 🍳Excellent meat substitute in stir-fry
- 🍳Brain-shaped slices for gourmet plating
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- 💊Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) stimulation
- 💊Cognitive function and memory support
- 💊Potential neuroprotective properties