Species We Grow
Black Pearl Oyster • Pleurotus ostreatus

Black Pearl Oysters are said to be a hybrid of King Trumpet Oyster and Blue Oyster that were originally bred several years ago in Japan. This culture made its way to the states about five years ago and has become a staple of growers and Chefs everywhere. It has the large stems of King Oysters with a slightly more tender texture. They grow in beautiful clusters that can weigh as much as three pounds. This mushroom has a good shelf life due to its density and high moisture content.
Blue Oyster • Pleurotus ostreatus

Blue oyster, also referred to as Grey Oyster, is perhaps the most commonly grown and eaten gourmet mushroom in the world. Native to northern Europe, it is a vigorous and fast grower, making it a reliable cash crop around the world. During and after WWI, Germany relied on cultivated oyster mushrooms grown on straw as a source of protein for a famished population suffering from a destroyed farming infrastructure. This mushroom is a favorite with our vegan and vegetarian chefs due to its tender, meat-like texture. It is exceptional deep fried, and is maybe our most versatile mushroom due to its mild, slightly anise flavor.
Chestnut • Pholiota adiposa

Chestnut has a history as a foraged mushroom in the British Isles, but is relatively new to the American food scene. It was virtually unknown to American chefs before it was domesticated by mushroom growers about 15 years ago. Beloved for its firm yet juicy texture, chestnut is a staple in our Chef’s Mix. It is probably the most visually stunning mushroom we grow and also the most challenging to cultivate. It is a sophisticated alternative to recipes calling for the less flavorful yet crunchy Beech mushroom.
Gold Oyster • Pleurotus citrinopileatus

Gold oyster originated in Asia but has since spread around the world and can be found in forests in the US. It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures which makes it a flexible mushroom to cultivate. Commonly mistaken for chanterelle, it also possesses a strong, rich shroomy flavor and delicate texture. Before it’s harvested, it smells sweet and floral like honeynut cheerios. Due to its delicate texture, it is prone to drying out in refrigeration and should be used quickly.
Lion's Mane • Hericium erinaceus

This mushroom can be found growing on hardwoods in early winter, in many places around the world. We find them in Tallahassee from December to March. They have been in the limelight for years now due to their medicinal properties. Research suggests Lion's Mane contain compounds that encourage the production of Nerve Regrowth Factor in the human brain. As a culinary mushroom it is often misunderstood do to its spongy, almost tofu like texture. It is a fantastic imitation of crab, scallops and even steak and chicken in the right hands. An added bonus is Lion's Mane's very long shelf life due to its density and low surface area.
Phoenix Oyster • Pleurotus pulmonarius

This mushroom is often referred to as Italian or Brown oyster. This mushroom possesses a lower moisture content and a silkier texture than its blue oyster cousins. One of our favorites on the farm. This is the fastest growing mushroom we grow. From inoculation to harvest it takes only around two weeks!
Pioppino AKA Black Poplar • Agrocybe aegerita

In Italian, 'pioppino' translates to “little poplar mushroom.” As its name suggests, it is most commonly found growing on poplar trees in the Mediterranean region. Pioppino has a light almond flavor with a natural umami. The caps are buttery and the stems possess a crunchy texture with a lovely bite. One of our favorite mushrooms here at the farm, it makes a wonderful pizza topping and lends a stand-out texture to pastas and more.
Maitake AKA Hen of The Woods • Grifola Fondosa

Grifola Frondosa is commonly known as Maitake or Hen of the Woods. Maitake grows amongst leaf litter at the base of hard wood trees. The aroma of this mushroom is peppery and earthy. The texture is snappy, crispy but tender with a little bit of bounce. Instead of caps, Maitake grows fronds. Fronds can be tricky for growers to reliably produce due to Maitake's very sensitive, slow-growing nature. This mushroom is a chef favorite and one of the very best gourmet mushrooms, period!
Try it roasted in olive oil then topped with salt & pepper, lemon, parsley and parmesan.
Try it roasted in olive oil then topped with salt & pepper, lemon, parsley and parmesan.
To receive our wholesale pricelist, request a sample, or any other wholesale inquiries, contact us at:
sales@playofsunlight.com
Josh Saul - (850) 570-1445