Oyster Mushroom

Oyster Mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm. (illustrated 60% life size) Cap 6–14cm across, shell-shaped, convex at first, then flattening or slightly depressed, often wavy and lobed at the margin or splitting; variable in colour, flesh-brown or deep blue-grey, later more grey-brown. Stem 20–30×10–20cm, excentric to lateral, or absent; white; woolly base. Flesh white; taste and smell pleasant. Gills decurrent; white at first, then with a yellowish tinge. Spores 7.5–11×3–4¼, subcylindrical. Spore print lilac. Habitat often in large clusters on stumps and fallen or standing trunks, usually of deciduous trees, especially beech; all year. Common. Edible.