Live high-quality Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus) culture in  a syringe. 
 
About this mushroom
 
Physical Characteristics:
Fruiting Body: The fruiting bodies of Snow Fungus are unique, with a translucent and gelatinous appearance. They resemble a cluster of delicate, white, frilly, and wavy structures that can look like snowflakes or coral.
Color: Typically, they are pure white or slightly off-white, becoming more transparent when fresh.
Texture: The texture is jelly-like and gelatinous, soft yet resilient.
Size: The fruiting bodies can vary in size, generally growing between 2 to 5 inches in diameter.
Aroma:
The aroma of Snow Fungus is very mild and almost neutral. They do not have a strong scent, making them versatile for various culinary uses without overpowering other ingredients.
Taste:
The taste of Snow Fungus is very mild and somewhat bland, often described as slightly earthy. They are prized more for their texture than their flavor, providing a unique, gelatinous, and slightly crunchy consistency in dishes. Snow Fungus readily absorbs the flavors of the ingredients they are cooked with, making them a popular choice for soups, desserts, and medicinal tonics.
 
Brief History of Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus)
 
Tremella fuciformis, commonly known as Snow Fungus, is renowned for its culinary and medicinal uses, particularly in Asian cultures. Here is a brief history:
Discovery and Classification:
Tremella fuciformis was first scientifically described by Swedish mycologist Elias Magnus Fries in 1822.
It belongs to the genus Tremella, which includes several jelly fungi known for their gelatinous fruiting bodies. The name "fuciformis" refers to its seaweed-like appearance.
Habitat and Distribution:
Snow Fungus is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
It grows on dead or decaying wood, particularly favoring hardwoods. Unlike many fungi, it does not decompose wood directly but instead parasitizes other fungi that do.
Cultural and Medicinal Uses:
Snow Fungus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system, improving skin health, and providing anti-aging properties.
It is often used in traditional Chinese dishes, particularly desserts and soups, for its purported health benefits and unique texture.
Modern Research and Applications:
Modern scientific research has confirmed several health benefits associated with Tremella fuciformis. It is rich in polysaccharides, which have been shown to enhance immune function, reduce inflammation, and act as antioxidants.
Snow Fungus is also being studied for its potential in skincare products due to its hydrating properties and ability to support skin elasticity and hydration.
Its bioactive compounds are being explored for their potential in pharmaceuticals, particularly for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects.
Culinary Aspects:
Snow Fungus is highly valued in Asian cuisine for its unique gelatinous texture and ability to absorb flavors. It is often used in sweet and savory dishes, including desserts, soups, and stews.
In Chinese cuisine, it is commonly prepared in desserts with rock sugar and dried fruits or added to savory soups for its health benefits and texture.
Snow Fungus is also known for its high nutritional value, providing dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Overall, Tremella fuciformis, or Snow Fungus, is celebrated for its culinary versatility, medicinal properties, and cultural significance. It continues to be a subject of interest in scientific research and remains a staple in traditional Asian medicine and cuisine.