New Zealand Shiitake Lentinula novae-zelandiae

New Zealand Shiitake

Lentinula novae-zelandiae

10 cc/ml liquid fungi mycology culture syringe with a sterile needle.

New Zealand Shiitake Lentinula novae-zelandiae Liquid Culture, rare native hardwood mushroom for gourmet cultivation and forest mushroom projects

Lentinula novae-zelandiae, commonly referred to as the New Zealand Shiitake, is a rare hardwood-loving mushroom species native to New Zealand forests. Closely related to the traditional shiitake mushroom, this species shares a similar rich umami flavor, firm texture, and excellent culinary versatility. It is a prized wild edible that has gained interest for sustainable cultivation in temperate climates, especially in outdoor woodland settings or on native hardwood logs.

This premium liquid culture contains a pure and vigorous strain of Lentinula novae-zelandiae, ideal for inoculating grain spawn and transferring to hardwood sawdust blocks or plug spawn for log cultivation. Suitable for growers, chefs, and mushroom enthusiasts seeking a regional specialty with gourmet potential.

Key features:

• Species: Lentinula novae-zelandiae, also known as New Zealand Shiitake

• Type: Liquid mushroom culture in sterile nutrient solution

• Ideal for: Hardwood log cultivation, plug spawn, sawdust blocks, native forest mushroom gardens

• Growth habit: Brown to reddish convex caps with white gills and thick stems, similar to Lentinula edodes

• Culinary value: Edible gourmet mushroom with a deep umami profile, ideal for grilling, soups, and sauces

Why grow New Zealand Shiitake mushrooms:

• Native species with culinary appeal and regional authenticity

• Thrives on hardwoods such as beech and other native trees

• Great for sustainable cultivation and rewilding projects

• Suitable for plug spawn production and log inoculation

• Excellent for farm-to-table growers, chefs, and mushroom collectors

How to use:
Inoculate sterilized grain with New Zealand Shiitake liquid culture. Once colonized, transfer grain spawn to sterilized sawdust blocks or use to produce plug spawn for inoculating hardwood logs. Keep logs in a shaded outdoor area with consistent moisture. Fruiting typically occurs in seasonal cycles and can continue for several years once established.

Lentinula novae-zelandiae New Zealand Shiitake liquid culture is ideal for cultivators looking to grow a unique regional mushroom with gourmet value and strong adaptability to forest environments. Whether for personal harvest, culinary use, or native reintroduction, this species offers exceptional flavor, cultural connection, and ecological benefit.

*international orders will not include needle.

*instructions are not included, please thoroughly research growing conditions and techniques.