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Oyster mushroom
Fungi
EXPLORE > PLANTS > FUNGI
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Pleurotus Ostreatus

The oyster mushroom is a common species in the Pacific Northwest and is often collected for culinary purposes. The mushroom’s body is shaped like a convex fan and ranges in color from cream to brown. It will only rarely produce a stem and generally grows in overlapping clusters similar to Chicken of the woods mushrooms. The caps measure up to 3 inches (8 cm) across and the underside is covered in deep “gills.” 

This plant is frequently collected as a food and has a mild, fruity flavor.  However, it does have a potentially dangerous lookalike, the angel wings mushroom (Pleurocybella porrigens).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Most forms of mushroom are poisonous! No mushroom should be eaten unless you know exactly what you are doing or have an experienced, knowledgable person to guide you.

Distribution

This species is widely distributed and can be found in North America, Europe and parts of Asia including the islands of Japan. It will grow on trees during the spring and fall in mixed hardwood-conifer forests. It will never grow on the ground.

​Conservation Status

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Common.
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