Key takeaways
- Pleurotus is a genus of fan-shaped, wood-loving mushrooms.
- The common Oyster mushroom is Pleurotus ostreatus.
- Relatives include king, pink, phoenix and golden oysters.
- Products should name the species, not just “oyster”.
“Oyster mushroom” can mean several related species. This article introduces the Pleurotus genus.
The genus Pleurotus
Pleurotus species typically have fan- or shell-shaped caps, gills that run down onto a short, often off-centre stem, and grow on wood or plant material. Many are widely cultivated.
Common species
- Pleurotus ostreatus: the grey or brown Oyster mushroom, common on dead hardwood.
- Pleurotus pulmonarius: the phoenix or Indian oyster, paler and suited to warmer conditions.
- Pleurotus eryngii: the king oyster, with a thick, meaty stem.
- Pleurotus djamor: the pink oyster, from tropical regions.
- Pleurotus citrinopileatus: the golden oyster, bright yellow.
Why the species matters
Species differ in appearance, growing conditions and composition. A product should name its species, not just “oyster mushroom”.
Our Oyster
Our Oyster tincture uses UK-grown Pleurotus ostreatus. See The Complete Guide to Oyster Mushrooms.