Live high-quality Pleurotus Ostreatus (King Grey Oyster) culture in a syringe. 
 
About this mushroom
 
Physical Characteristics:
Cap: The caps of King Blue Oyster mushrooms are distinctive, with a blue-grey color and a fan-shaped, smooth texture. They often have slightly wavy edges and can grow in overlapping clusters.
Gills: The gills are white to light grey and delicate, running down the stem (decurrent). They are closely spaced and give the mushroom its characteristic appearance.
Stem: The stem is usually short and off-center, often white to light grey. It can be nearly absent as the mushrooms grow in a shelf-like formation on wood.
Size: Caps can range from 2 to 8 inches in diameter, depending on the growing conditions.
Aroma:
The aroma of King Blue Oyster mushrooms is mild and pleasant, with a slightly sweet and earthy scent. They have a subtle fragrance that is not overpowering.
Taste:
The taste of King Blue Oyster mushrooms is mild and delicate, with a slight hint of anise or almond. They have a tender, meaty texture, making them a popular choice in a variety of culinary dishes. When cooked, their flavor becomes more pronounced, absorbing the flavors of accompanying ingredients well. They are often used in soups, stir-fries, and as a meat substitute due to their umami-rich profile.
 
Brief History of Pleurotus ostreatus (King Grey Oyster)
 
Pleurotus ostreatus, commonly known as the King Grey Oyster mushroom, is a notable variety of the popular oyster mushroom, recognized for its robust size, flavor, and versatility. Here is a brief history:
Discovery and Classification:
The King Grey Oyster mushroom is a cultivated variety of Pleurotus ostreatus, selectively bred for its larger size and desirable culinary traits.
It belongs to the genus Pleurotus, which includes several other oyster mushroom species. The name "ostreatus" reflects the oyster-like shape of the mushroom caps.
Habitat and Distribution:
As a cultivated variety, King Grey Oyster mushrooms are primarily grown in controlled agricultural environments worldwide.
They can be found in temperate regions, grown on substrates like straw, sawdust, and agricultural waste, which makes them an eco-friendly choice for mushroom cultivation.
Cultural and Medicinal Uses:
While the King Grey Oyster mushroom does not have a long history of traditional use due to its cultivated nature, it inherits the beneficial properties of its parent species.
It is believed to support immune health, provide antioxidants, and offer cardiovascular benefits, much like other Pleurotus species.
Modern Research and Applications:
Modern scientific research is exploring the potential health benefits of King Grey Oyster mushrooms, including their bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, which have been shown to have immune-boosting, anti-tumor, and cholesterol-lowering effects.
Their enzymatic capabilities are also being studied for applications in bioremediation, where they can help break down environmental pollutants and improve soil health.
Culinary Aspects:
King Grey Oyster mushrooms are highly prized for their culinary qualities. They have a rich, savory flavor with a firm, meaty texture, making them an excellent meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
They are versatile in the kitchen and can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stir-fries, grilled preparations, and more. Their large size makes them ideal for grilling or roasting whole.
King Grey Oyster mushrooms are also known for their high nutritional value, providing protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals.
Overall, Pleurotus ostreatus, or King Grey Oyster mushroom, is celebrated for its impressive size, rich flavor, and potential health benefits. It continues to be a favorite in both commercial cultivation and gourmet cooking, maintaining its status as a versatile and nutritious ingredient in a wide range of culinary applications.