Lingzhi Mushroom – 10/17/10

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/17/10

Observation Time: 10:00 a.m.

Observation Location: 4 Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Lingzhi mushroom

Scientific Name: Ganoderma tsugae

Comments: This mushroom specimen was growing in the tamarack (larch) grove in my back yard. It is probably growing on a root, as it was growing on the ground right next to a big tamarack tree. Since tamaracks are coniferous, this specimen is presumably Ganoderma tsugae, rather than Ganoderma lucidum, which grows on deciduous trees.

Apparently, these mushrooms are valued for their medicinal properties.

More Information: Cornell Mushroom Blog