Pleurotus

Pleurotus is a genus of saprotrophic mushrooms in the family Pleurotaceae, order Agaricales. The mushrooms are known for shelf- or fan-shaped fruit bodies with a lateral or eccentric stipe and decurrent gills. Cap colors range from white and cream to gray, brown, or pinkish tones, often with a smooth to velvety surface. The spore print is white.

Pleurotus species are wood-decay fungi, commonly growing on dead or dying hardwoods, and less often on conifers. They form prolific perennial or single-season fruitings in temperate and tropical regions and are widely distributed around the world.

Among the best known are Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom), Pleurotus pulmonarius (phoenix oyster), Pleurotus eryngii (king oyster), Pleurotus djamor (pink oyster), and Pleurotus cornucopiae (golden oyster). While they share a similar growth habit and edible flesh, there are differences in size, color, and substrate preference.

Pleurotus are among the most cultivated edible mushrooms. They are grown on agricultural byproducts such as straw, sawdust, and bran, or on logs. Fruiting temperatures vary by species but generally fall between 10–25°C. They have a mild, savory flavor and a firm texture, making them popular in many cuisines. Nutritionally, oyster mushrooms are low in fat and calories and provide protein, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals.

Wild Pleurotus should be correctly identified and claims of medicinal properties viewed with caution; cultivated varieties are widely sold fresh or dried. As with all wild mushrooms, ingestion may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.