Common Name(s)
Shiitake, Black Forest Mushroom
Preferred Substrates
Hardwood logs and stumps, hardwood sawdust blocks
Environmental Conditions
Vegetative Growth (Incubation Stage):
Temperature: 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C)
Humidity: Humidity is controlled by mushroom bag
Pinning Stage:
Temperature: 53°F to 64°F (12°C to 18°C)
Humidity: >90%
Fruiting Stage:
Temperature: 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C) for the best results.
Humidity: 65–85%
Difficulty
Easy
Notes
Lentinula edodes, or shiitake mushroom, is a widely cultivated and popular edible mushroom with a meaty flavor. It is believed to have immune-boosting and anti-cancer effects due to its polysaccharides content. Shiitake mushrooms are grown on logs or sawdust substrates, harvested within 3-5 days, and are low in calories but high in protein and essential minerals like zinc and selenium.