The mushroom that glows in the dark! After working with several species of bioluminescent fungi, we have selected Panellus stipticus for ease of cultivation and reliable glowing effects. The mycelium gives off relatively low levels of greenish light and is only visible in complete darkness after about 5 minutes of allowing your eyes to adjust. The cultures do not glow early in their growth and may take several weeks to begin producing visible amounts of light. The glow is dependant on available oxygen and dramatic and sudden increases in brightness can be achieved when cultures are exposed to the open air. The primordia, pins and mushrooms themselves glow very brightly and can be easily observed in less than complete darkness.

In nature, Pan. stipticus is found growing on logs and is shaped somewhat like a small leathery oyster mushroom.

The cultures are sold as a novelty only and do not produce edible or internally medicinal mushrooms. There is little information regarding the toxicity of this mushroom when eaten but it was reportedly used at one time externally to staunch bleeding.

The mycelium can be grown on a wide variety of wood, plug culture on logs or woodchip/sawdust blocks are recommended for observing normal fruiting.

To inoculate stumps and logs with Panellus mushroom plug spawn freshly cut wood is preferred. Use approximately 25-50 plugs per 3 foot by 4-8 inch diameter log. Spring inoculated logs may yield first crops by fall, best fruitings occur within one or two years. Plug size: 5/16in x 1in spiral grooved dowels.

Prepare inoculation sites by drilling 5/16in x 1 1/2in holes in a 4-6 inch spiraled spacing around presoaked logs or stumps. Hammer in plugs slighly below surface level to allow for capping with melted cheese wax to prevent drying of spawn. Stack or lean logs in shady location and do not allow to excessively dry. Dunk logs in bins of water to rehydrate, or water with traditional sprinklers, misters, or soakers during dry spells. Expect fall spring/fall fruitings for years to come.

For more information on growing from plug spawn check out the following titles from our Mushroom Bookstore: