Table of Contents
What is Lion’s Mane mushroom?
Lion’s mane mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, are a fascinating and visually striking fungus. Other common names are bearded tooth fungus, bearded hedgehog, old man’s beard or yamabushitake.
These mushrooms resemble the flowing mane of a lion, with their cascading, white, pom-pom-like appearance. As they mature, the spines on the mushroom become longer and more prominent. When young, the spines are pure white but fade to yellowish and then brown as they age.
These mushrooms are visually impressive and boast a range of potential health benefits. Lion’s mane contains bioactive compounds that have been associated with various medicinal properties. Research suggests that lion’s mane may offer protection against dementia and provide potential benefits for managing symptoms of stomach ulcers, heart disease, and diabetes.
Where does lion’s mane grow?
Lion’s mane mushroom grows primarily on hardwood trees throughout the northern hemisphere. It can be found in temperate forests across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Lion’s mane mushrooms grow predominantly on hardwoods such as oak, maple, beech, birch, black walnut, ash, and cherry. In California specifically, they’ve been found on coast live oak, canyon live oak, interior live oak, California black oak, blue oak, and valley oak.
Lion’s mane mushrooms typically appear on dead or dying trees, decaying logs, and stumps. They may also grow in the wounds of living trees that have suffered some kind of damage.
In North America, lion’s mane typically fruits during late summer and fall. More specifically, they appear from October to February in the western regions, July to October in the Mountain states, and September to February in eastern North America. In Europe, they’re mainly produced from August to November.
Lion’s mane prefers cooler temperatures for fruiting, typically between 55-70°F (16-21°C). They can withstand cold temperatures and frost conditions.
Lion’s mane can be cultivated at home through several methods:
- Indoor Growing: Using hardwood sawdust fruiting blocks is a common method for indoor cultivation.
- Outdoor Growing: Outdoors, lion’s mane can be grown on logs with plug spawn or on pillars, stumps, and in buckets using sawdust spawn.. When growing on logs, it typically takes up to two years before fruiting begins.
- Growing Kits: Pre-made growing kits offer a simple way to cultivate lion’s mane at home without extensive setup.
Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom Easy to Grow?
While growing lion’s mane mushrooms can be a rewarding experience, it is important to note that they may pose some challenges, especially for beginners. Unlike other mushrooms, the mycelium of lion’s mane takes longer to develop, increasing the risk of contamination during the colonization process.
Alternatively, you can use a lion’s mane mushroom growing kit if you prefer a more straightforward option. These kits typically provide everything you need to start your cultivation journey, including pre-inoculated substrates and detailed instructions.
Lion’s mane mushrooms grow at different rates depending on the cultivation method, but they generally develop quite rapidly once they begin fruiting.
How fast does lion’s mane grow?
When growing lion’s mane indoors using substrate bags or containers:
Colonization Phase: after inoculation, the mycelium takes about 14-21 days to fully colonize the substrate.
Pinning to Harvest : once fruiting begins, lion’s mane grows remarkably quickly:
- Pinheads (primordia) typically form 5-7 days after introducing fruiting conditions.
- These pinheads develop into full-sized mushrooms within another 5-10 days.
- The entire process from pinning to harvest can take as little as 7-14 days.
Total Indoor Growing Time: From inoculation to harvest, you can expect approximately 3-4 weeks for a complete growth cycle.
Lion’s mane can mature extremely rapidly during the final fruiting stage – sometimes developing fully within just 12-24 hours once it reaches a certain point.
When growing on logs, lion’s mane has a much longer timeline:
Initial Incubation: Logs need to be incubated for a minimum of six months after inoculation
First Harvest: It typically takes 1-2 years after inoculation before you’ll see your first harvest of lion’s mane mushrooms from logs.
Once established, logs can continue producing lion’s mane mushrooms for up to six years
What is the best substrate for lion’s mane mushrooms?
The best substrate for growing Lion’s Mane mushrooms is Master’s Mix, which is a blend of hardwood pellets and soy hulls. This substrate is highly recommended because it provides an excellent source of nitrogen and protein that Lion’s Mane fungi need, while also creating a structure well-suited for mycelium growth, allowing for fast colonization and greater yields.
Substrate alternatives for lion’s mane mushrooms
For Lion’s Mane cultivation, several substrate options are effective:
- Master’s Mix: The preferred choice combining hardwood pellets with soy hulls
- Hardwood-based substrates: Such as hardwood fuel pellets (HWFP), hardwood chips, or sawdust (preferably oak, beech, or maple)
- Supplemented hardwood: Hardwood sawdust with 5-10% wheat bran additions
- Commercial mixes: Pre-formulated substrates containing oak sawdust, soya hulls, straw, sunflower husks, bran, and calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
Some growers also use a mix of 70% oak and 30% wheat middling, which has shown excellent results.
When preparing Lion’s Mane substrate, several factors are crucial:
- Sterilization is essential for Lion’s Mane as it develops more slowly than other mushrooms, creating a larger window for contamination
- Moisture content shhould be between 50-70% (with some sources recommending closer to 55%)
- pH level – optimal range is 5-6.5, with 6.5 being ideal
- Nutrient content– it should contain calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and phosphorus
- Nitrogen content: Mushrooms typically need at least 0.2% nitrogen, but prefer 1-2%
The substrate must be properly sterilized before use. Common methods include:
- Pressure cooking – is the most recommended for complete sterilization
- Steam sterilization – using a pressure cooker or steam sterilizer
- Chemical sterilization – sing hydrogen peroxide or lime (less common)
- Pasteurization – a milder form of sterilization suitable for some substrates
Lion’s Mane requires particularly careful sterilization compared to other mushroom varieties due to its longer development time, which increases contamination risk
Growing Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Indoors
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cultivating Lion’s Mane mushrooms at home using a substrate-based method:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Lion’s Mane Spawn: Purchase high-quality Lion’s Mane mycelium spawn from a reputable supplier.
Substrate: Hardwood sawdust or pellets mixed with a supplement such as wheat bran is ideal. Lion’s Mane prefers hardwood as its growing medium.
Bags or Containers: Use autoclavable bags with filter patches or suitable containers for your substrate.
Sterilization Equipment: A pressure cooker or large pot for sterilizing the substrate.
Miscellaneous Tools: Measuring cups, a mixing bowl or bucket, and a thermometer.
2. Prepare the substrate for Lion’s Mane mushrooms
Mixing: Combine hardwood sawdust with wheat bran at a ratio of approximately 5:1. For every 5 cups of sawdust, add 1 cup of bran. Adjust the ratio based on the specific requirements of your spawn.
Moisture Content: Add water to achieve a moisture content of about 60-65%. The substrate should be moist but not soggy.
Sterilization: Sterilize the mixture to kill any unwanted bacteria or fungi. Pack the substrate into your bags or containers, then steam or pressure cook at 15 PSI for 90-120 minutes.
3. Cool the substrate
Allow the sterilized substrate to cool to room temperature. Avoid opening the sterilizer or bags until they are cool to prevent contamination.
4. Inoculate the substrate
Clean Environment: Clean your workspace and wash your hands to minimize contamination risk.
Inoculation: Open the bag or container and evenly mix in the Lion’s Mane spawn with the cooled substrate. Seal the bag or container after inoculation.
5. Incubation
Place the inoculated substrate in a dark, clean space with a stable temperature around 21°C (70°F).
Monitor the bags for signs of mycelial growth, which should appear as white, web-like structures spreading throughout the substrate.
This phase can take 2-4 weeks, depending on conditions. The substrate is fully colonized when it’s covered in mycelium.
6. Initiate fruiting
Once fully colonized, introduce the bags or containers to conditions conducive to fruiting. This includes higher humidity (around 90-95%), lower temperature (15-18°C or 60-65°F), and indirect light.
Introduce Fresh Air: Lion’s Mane mushrooms require fresh air to develop properly. Open the growing area a few times a day to exchange air or use a fan for indirect ventilation.
Moisture: Maintain high humidity by misting the air around the mushrooms, not directly onto them, to avoid damaging the delicate mycelium.
7. Harvest your Lion’s Mane mushrooms
Lion’s Mane mushrooms are ready to harvest when the spines have fully elongated and the mushrooms have ceased growing in size. This usually occurs within a week or two of fruiting initiation.
Use a sharp knife to cut the mushrooms at the base. Be careful not to damage the mycelium in the substrate to allow for additional flushes.
After harvesting, you can often get additional flushes of mushrooms. Simply continue to maintain the fruiting conditions, and new mushrooms should begin to form within a couple of weeks.
Growing Lion’s Mane on Logs
If you prefer an outdoor approach to cultivating lion’s mane mushrooms, growing them on logs is an excellent option. This method allows you to harness the natural environment and create a sustainable source of these delicious and nutritious fungi.
1. Select your logs
Choose hardwood logs such as oak, beech, maple, or birch, as Lion’s Mane prefers these. Avoid using softwoods.
Ideal logs are 3 to 8 inches in diameter and about 3 to 4 feet in length.
Use fresh logs, cut during the dormant season (late winter to early spring) for higher sugar content. Ensure they are free from disease and rot.
2. Acquire Lion’s Mane spawn
Purchase Lion’s Mane spawn, preferably in the form of plug spawn for ease of use in logs. The amount of spawn needed depends on the number and size of logs. A standard rule is about 50 plugs for a 4-foot log.
3. Drill holes in the logs
Drill holes about 1 inch deep along the length of the log. Space holes about 6 inches apart in rows, with each row offset from the next to create a diamond pattern. Use a drill bit that matches the size of your plug spawn, typically 5/16 or 3/8 inch.
4. Inoculate the logs
Tap the plug spawn into the holes using a hammer. Ensure they are flush with the log surface or slightly recessed.
Cover the holes with wax (cheese wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax) to protect the spawn from drying out and to prevent contamination. Melt the wax and apply it with a small brush or a dauber.
5. Store the logs for colonization
Stack the inoculated logs in a shaded, moist area. You can use a “lean-to” stack, a “log cabin” stack, or simply lean them against a support.
Keep the logs moist but not saturated. Covering them with a shade cloth can help retain moisture. Avoid letting them dry out, especially during hot or windy conditions.
6. Wait for Colonization
It takes about 6 to 12 months for the mycelium to fully colonize the logs. You can check for colonization by looking for white mycelial growth at the ends of the logs or under the bark.
7. Fruiting
Once fully colonized, the logs may fruit naturally, typically in the fall. For some logs, you might need to shock them into fruiting by soaking them in cold water for 24 hours.
Ideal fruiting conditions for lion’s mane include high humidity, temperatures between 15-24°C (59-75°F), and indirect light.
8. Harvesting
Harvest Lion’s Mane when the spines are long and the mushroom is still white before it starts to yellow. Cut them off close to the log using a knife.
Logs can produce multiple flushes of mushrooms, usually in the spring and fall. After harvesting, the logs can rest until the next fruiting cycle.
9. Maintenance Between Flushes
Keep the logs in a shaded, moist area. Sprinkle water during dry periods to maintain moisture. Avoid letting the logs dry out completely.
Growing Lion’s Mane mushrooms on logs is a sustainable method that can provide you with fresh mushrooms for several years from the same log, with most logs producing for 3 to 6 years. Enjoy the process and the delicious rewards of your efforts!
How to harvest Lion’s Mane mushrooms?
Lion’s mane mushrooms should be harvested when they reach the perfect stage of maturity for optimal flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. Here’s a comprehensive guide on when and how to harvest them properly.
When to harvest Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
The ideal time to harvest lion’s mane mushrooms is when:
- The “teeth” or spines measure approximately ¼ to ½ inch in length
- The mushroom has stopped expanding in diameter and the spines are lengthening
- The texture feels soft yet firm, similar to a slightly damp sponge when gently pressed
- The color is bright white or cream (slight pink tinge is acceptable)
- The mushroom feels more loosely connected to the growing medium when wiggled
This optimal harvest window typically occurs 5-10 days after pinning (when small pinheads first form). The final maturation stage happens quickly – often within just 12-24 hours.
Avoid harvesting too late, as indicated by:
- Yellowing or browning edges
- Teeth becoming too long (over ½ inch)
- Soft or mushy texture
- White spore dust visible underneath the mushroom (though this can be wiped away)
Harvesting Technique
The proper harvesting method helps preserve the substrate for future flushes:
Instead of cutting, grasp the base of the mushroom cluster and gently twist while pulling it away from the substrate.
Ensure you remove the entire mushroom, leaving no remnants that could lead to contamination. Knives can damage the mycelium and inhibit future flushes.
How to store Lion’s mane mushrooms
Lion’s mane mushrooms require proper storage to maintain their freshness, flavor, and nutritional benefits. Here are the best methods for storing these unique fungi:
Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)
For short-term storage of fresh lion’s mane mushrooms:
- Paper Bag Method: Store them in a paper bag in the refrigerator. The paper allows the mushrooms to “breathe” and absorbs excess moisture that could cause spoilage.
- Container Option: Alternatively, place them in a loosely closed container lined with a paper towel.
- Avoid Washing: Don’t wash the mushrooms before storing as moisture accelerates spoilage. Instead, gently wipe them with a dry paper towel to remove any dirt.
- Ideal Temperature: Keep them at 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C) for optimal preservation.
- Placement: Store in the main compartment of your refrigerator rather than the crisper drawer to avoid excess humidity.
- Expected Shelf Life: When properly stored, fresh lion’s mane mushrooms will last 5-7 days in a paper bag or up to a week in the refrigerator.
Freezing (Long-Term Storage)
For longer preservation:
- Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp cloth or briefly rinse and thoroughly pat dry
- Slice into manageable pieces
- Blanch the mushrooms briefly in boiling water (1-2 minutes)
- Transfer to ice water to halt cooking
- Drain and pat dry
- Place on a baking sheet without touching and freeze until solid
- Transfer to airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags
Properly frozen lion’s mane mushrooms can last up to a year when kept at a constant temperature of -18°C (0°F).
Drying Method
Drying extends shelf life and intensifies flavor:
- Slice mushrooms thinly for even drying
- Use a food dehydrator set to a low temperature (43-49°C)
- Once completely dry, store in airtight containers
- Keep in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and moisture
- Dried mushrooms can last several months to a year
Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane mushrooms offer a host of health benefits due to their unique composition. Packed with bioactive compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, these mushrooms possess neuroprotective and antioxidant properties that can promote overall well-being.
| Medicinal Properties | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Neuroregeneration | Promotes the growth and repair of nerve cells |
| Neuroprotective effects | May protect against cognitive decline and improve cognitive function |
| Anti-inflammatory properties | Reduces inflammation and alleviates symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease |
| Immune system support | Stimulates the immune system for better overall health |
| Digestive health | Protects the stomach lining and reduces the risk of gastric ulcers |
Due to its medicinal properties, lion’s mane mushrooms are available in various forms, such as capsules, powders, and tinctures. These lion’s mane mushroom supplements offer a convenient way to incorporate the health benefits of lion’s mane into your daily routine.
Incorporating lion’s mane mushrooms into your diet opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From stir-fries to soups and everything in between, these delectable mushrooms add a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a meat-like texture to your dishes. Experimenting with various recipes allows you to explore their versatility and enjoy the valuable nutrients they provide.
FAQ
What is a Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
A lion’s mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is a white, pom-pom-like fungus that resembles the mane of a lion. It is found on rotting hardwood trees and logs in the northern hemisphere and is native to Asia, Europe, and North America.
Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom Easy to Grow?
Growing lion’s mane mushrooms can present challenges for beginners. The mycelium of lion’s mane takes longer to develop than other mushrooms, increasing the risk of contamination. Determining when the lion’s mane is fully colonized and ready to fruit can be difficult for first-time growers.
How do I Grow Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Indoors?
To grow lion’s mane mushrooms indoors, you will need to create a suitable growing environment. This involves preparing your supplies, cleaning and sterilizing your work area, preparing your mushroom substrate, inoculating it with lion’s mane spawn, and providing specific temperature, humidity, and light conditions for fruiting.
How do I Grow Lion’s Mane on Logs?
To grow lion’s mane mushrooms on logs, you need to select healthy hardwood logs, preferably from dormant trees, and inoculate them with lion’s mane spawn plugs. The logs need to be stored in a shady spot and kept moist for the mycelium to colonize. After a period of time, the logs will start producing lion’s mane mushrooms.
How do I Harvest Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
Lion’s mane mushrooms should be harvested after they have developed tendrils on the bottom but before they start releasing spores. Tendrils that are 3-5 cm long indicate that the mushroom is ready to be harvested. To remove the mushrooms, gently twist and pull the entire cluster off at the base.
What are the Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s mane mushrooms offer various health benefits, including potential protection against dementia, stomach ulcers, heart disease, and symptoms management of diabetes. They also have neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties, which support brain health, improve cognitive function, and promote overall well-being.
Where can I Buy Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
You can buy lion’s mane mushrooms and related products from online retailers. They offer a wide range of options, including fresh mushrooms, dried powder, supplements, and growing kits. Additionally, some specialty food stores and health food stores may carry lion’s mane mushrooms or products derived from them.
What are Some Lion’s Mane Mushroom Recipes?
Lion’s mane mushrooms have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a meat-like texture when cooked. They can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or used in stir-fries, soups, stews, pasta dishes, mushroom-based sauces, sandwiches, and wraps. The versatility of lion’s mane mushrooms makes them a great addition to vegetarian and vegan dishes as a meat substitute.
What are Outdoor Mushroom Cultivation Techniques?
Outdoor mushroom cultivation techniques include log cultivation, wood chip cultivation, and straw bed cultivation. Each method requires specific conditions and procedures to ensure successful growth. Factors such as selecting the right substrate, maintaining proper humidity and temperature levels, and protecting against pests and contaminants are crucial for outdoor mushroom cultivation.
What are the Medicinal Properties of Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s mane mushrooms have medicinal properties that include neuroregeneration, neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory effects, and immune system support. Research suggests that lion’s mane may promote nerve cell growth, improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and support digestive health. Lion’s mane mushroom supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, powders, and tinctures.
Can I Grow Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Indoors Successfully as a Beginner?
While lion’s mane mushrooms can be challenging to grow indoors for beginners, gaining some hands-on experience with mushroom cultivation is recommended before attempting to grow lion’s mane. Starting with oyster mushrooms is a great way to practice. Alternatively, you can use a lion’s mane mushroom growing kit if you prefer a more straightforward option.
