ForestHarvest: non-timber forest products in Scotland

 PRODUCTS

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Description

Soft bracket fungus found in clumps on tree stumps and rotting logs. Grey upper sides darkening with age, and pale gills.

Habitat

Woodlands, particularly on ash and beech.

Uses

A good edible species, although old specimens can be tough. Try slicing them, springling with lemon juice, coating them in flour and beaten egg and then frying them. They are also good in casseroles. On their own the flavour is rather weak, though they are good on a barbecue.

Gathering

Oyster mushrooms can be found all year round, though they are most abundant during the late autumn and winter. This species is also cultivated on logs.

See the mushroom page for general advice on gathering wild fungi.

Image provided by William Milliken/RBGE

Link

Recipe: oyster mushroom and shallot tart