Reishi (European/temperate)
Ganoderma lucidum sensu stricto
Family: Ganodermataceae
Also called: Reishi, Lingzhi, 灵芝, Mannentake
Overview
Not a culinary edible. The true G. lucidum is the European temperate-broadleaf species (on Quercus, Castanea, occasionally Prunus). Most 'lingzhi' in Asian medicine trade is actually G. lingzhi (China) or G. sichuanense, not G. lucidum sensu stricto. Lacquered red kidney-shaped cap with lateral stem. Bitter — prepared as decoction or extract, not eaten.
Season
Jun–Sep — typical fruiting months: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
Host trees & substrate
- Dead Quercus stumps
- Dead Castanea stumps
Where it grows
See live fruiting predictions for Reishi (European/temperate) on the forecast home page, or browse the full field guide.
Always confirm wild-mushroom identification with multiple sources and a knowledgeable local expert before consuming. Read the foraging safety guide.