Shiitake Fruiting Block
Lentinula edodes
Quantity
What's in the box
5lb Colonized Block
Fruiting-Ready Filter Bag
Instruction Card
Viable culture guaranteed. If it arrives damaged, dead, or visibly contaminated, contact us within 48 hours with photos and we'll arrange a replacement or refund.
Cultivation Specs
Colonization Time
Pre-colonized — ready to cold-shock
Fruiting Temp
55–75°F / 13–24°C
Ideal Substrate
Supplemented hardwood sawdust block (pre-colonized)
Expected Yield
2 flushes per block
Growing Method
Indoor
Key Benefits
FDA Orphan Drug
Lentinan holds FDA Orphan Drug status — administered IV in Japanese hospitals alongside chemotherapy for gastric cancer
Cholesterol Reduction
Eritadenine uniquely inhibits dietary cholesterol conversion — 15–25% reduction in total cholesterol in 7-day clinical trials
Cancer Adjunct (AHCC)
AHCC from Shiitake mycelium significantly improves NK cell activity vs. placebo in published oncology RCTs
Antiviral Compounds
Lentinan and lenthionine demonstrate activity against HIV, hepatitis B, and influenza in controlled laboratory studies
Already colonized on supplemented hardwood sawdust — skip the 8–12 week wait that a from-scratch Shiitake block normally takes. Cold-shock it (50°F water, 12–24 hours) once it arrives to trigger fruiting, and you'll see pins within 1–2 weeks of that soak.
The umami king rewards patience with flavor no Oyster species matches — thick caps, deep smoky aroma, and the texture chefs specifically ask for. Expect 2 solid flushes per block.
Each block: 5lb pre-colonized Shiitake substrate, sealed and ready to cold-shock and fruit. Store in a cool spot out of direct sun until you're ready.