A ‘Fuzzy’ Forest Surprise Spotted at Wesselman Woods in Evansville

A Rare Find at Wesselman Woods: The Lion’s Mane Mushroom

If you have ever walked through the woods, you know the experience can be peaceful, beautiful, and sometimes a little haunting. This past week, Wesselman Woods in Evansville shared one of nature’s strangest little surprises, and it definitely caught people’s attention.

I will give you a few hints:

• It is not endangered in the United States, but spotting one this large is still unusual.
• It is alive but not an animal or a plant.
• It is edible and has well-known medicinal properties.
• It grows both in the wild and through cultivation.
• It feeds on dead vegetation.
• It looks a bit like Cousin It taking a nap on a log.

If you guessed a Lion’s Mane mushroom, you nailed it.

What Wesselman Woods Found on the Trail

Wesselman Woods shared a photo of the discovery along with this caption:

"On the trails, we found a fine specimen of Hericium erinaceus or Lion's Mane mushroom, also known as bearded tooth fungus or bearded hedgehog. 'Erinaceus' means hedgehog in Latin."

Seeing one in the wild is a treat for mushroom lovers and fans of Wesselman Woods. Wesselman's Woods also reminded visitors that, though they are edible, foraging is not permitted. It should remain on the property for others to enjoy.

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Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane

If you are not familiar with Lion’s Mane, many people believe it may support a long list of health concerns, including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, depression and anxiety, nervous system disorders, and inflammation. It is sometimes called a miracle mushroom. Still, it is very important to talk with your doctor before taking any supplement.

What Lion’s Mane Tastes Like

One fun detail is that Lion’s Mane is known for its flavor and texture. People often say it tastes like chicken or shrimp. I personally have never eaten a chunk of it so I can't verify that but it is commonly used as a meat substitute because of its firm, seafood-like texture.

How to Grow Lion’s Mane at Home

Many people grow their own Lion’s Mane because it is one of the easiest mushrooms to cultivate.

According to mycoplanetkc.com, here is a simple overview of the process:

First, soak a hardwood log or a batch of sawdust in water for 24 hours. Then drain the water and mix in a handful of spore inoculant, which can be purchased online. Place the log or sawdust in a shady outdoor spot, and cover it with a tarp or a piece of burlap. Check on it every few days to keep it moist. If it starts to dry out, add more water.

Before long, you may spot your own fuzzy white cluster growing.