Hericium erinaceus

Lion's Mane, so named for its resemblance to a shaggy lion's mane, has captivated mushroom cultivators and health practitioners alike, becoming quite a popular variety to cultivate. Native to the temperate forests of North America, Europe, and Asia, it has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is now gaining global attention for its unique texture and neuroprotective properties. This mushroom is not only revered for its appearance but also for its ancient culinary and medicinal uses that stretch across centuries.

Lion's Mane is celebrated both in kitchens and herbal dispensaries. When cooked, its dense, meaty texture resembles that of seafood, particularly crab or lobster, making it a favourite for vegetarian dishes. In herbal medicine, it's known for supporting nerve regeneration and cognitive function, with modern research indicating it may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). It's also believed to support digestive health and the immune system, making it a powerful addition to any wellness routine.

Growing Lion's Mane at home is straightforward with the Livingseeds Mushroom Grow System. Livingseeds gives you the shortest path to success, providing you with everything you need to successfully grow your own Lion's Mane mushrooms at home. 

The Livingseeds Lion's Mane Grow System contains:

Pre-Inoculated Log

Humidity Sleeve

Wooden Sleeve Supports

Sterile Alcohol Swab

Fine Mist Spray Bottle

Handmade Ceramic Grow Plate

Ideal growing temperatures range from 16 to 24°C. The growing mushrooms require high humidity between 85% and 90%, with 12 hours of indirect light daily. Proper air exchange is crucial. Simply cut a small “X” in 1 or 2 places in the top 3rd, on the side of the log; if there are obvious white patches, cut directly above these. Mist it with a fine spray twice a day, and keep it in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sun.
To ensure success, monitor moisture closely; the humidity sleeve will help to maintain ambient humidity. Avoid placing the kit near heat sources or fans. A spray bottle of clean, chlorine-free water is essential; mist gently without overwatering to prevent mould. 

Harvest your Lion’s Mane when it reaches the size of a fist and the spines begin to elongate, but before they turn brown.
To enjoy a series of flushes, allow the kit to rest in a dark place for a few days after each harvest. After the first crop, soak the block in cold, clean water for several hours, then drain and return it to its humid environment. Most kits yield two to three flushes over a six to eight-week period. For a continuous supply, stagger the start of multiple kits by two weeks. This approach ensures fresh mushrooms are always in reach.
Lion's Mane is typically ready for its first harvest two to four weeks after fruiting conditions are initiated. 

The Livingseeds Mushroom Grow Systems are pre-colonised and ready to fruit, and with proper care, flushes can be harvested about every 10–14 days after the first, making this mushroom a generous and rewarding cultivar for indoor growers.