BASIDIOMYCETES: Agaricales, Tricholomataceae

Oyster Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus

Basidiomycetes, order: Agaricales, family: Tricholomataceae

Width to 3½"

Cap is wavy, convex to flattened, shaped somewhat like an oyster shell, white to brownish or gray, and fleshy. The stalk is minimal or absent and usually off-center. Gills are white to yellowish, descending down to the base. Spore print is white or very pale purple. Oyster Mushrooms grow in clusters, shelflike, from the bark of trees or fallen logs. These mushrooms are found in mixed woodlands throughout North America during most seasons. Edible and very good.