C. W. G. S. H. Ebenezear P. Samuel Exports

Other Details

The oyster mushroom is a common edible found in temperate and subtropical forests throughout the world. One of the first things you should look for when trying to identify this mushroom is the presence of decurrent gills.

De current means that the gills are attached to and run directly down the stem. Take a look at the close-up to the right.

Other identification features:

Cap

    Oyster or fan shaped, usually 2-10 inches across (5-25 cm).

    Often grow in a shelf-like formation with overlapping clusters.

    Smooth, with no warts or scales.

    Usually white to light brown with firm, white flesh.

    The gills are white, and are attached to and running down the cap and stem (decurrent).

Stem

    Stem is non-existent or stubby and off-center

    No ring around the stem, and no sack around the base.

    Flesh is white.