Paddy Straw “Horse Straw” – (Volvariella volvacea)

A tropical mushroom that fruits only above 80F and actually prefers 90+F, this protein rich species is widely cultivated in Asia on rice straw, but can be grown on many other slightly composted, dried vegetable wastes. This mushroom fruits quickly, typically in 5-7 days from spawning! The mushrooms form in eggs so they should be grown on a plastic barrier or in containers to avoid confusing with poisonous or deadly amanitas that associate with tree roots. A great tasting edible and prized in Asian markets, dried Paddy Straw can achieve protein contents of 38-42%! This culture will die under refrigeration or if temperatures drop below 50F for over a week, truly a tropical mushroom, but perfect for intense summer heat, it can be grown seasonally if you have a few weeks or months when nothing else will grow! For information on how to grow the Paddy straw mushroom, please click here.