Pleurotus ostreatus var. Florida
The “Florida oyster” is a white to cream-colored variety of oyster mushroom that prefers moderate temperatures. Its flavor is very similar to the grey oyster, but its texture is a bit more contrasted.
History
The Florida oyster is native to North America, where it is often found growing on dead or dying beech and walnut trees. Its preference for mild autumns makes it a perfect candidate for a white oyster variety in summer.
It is also increasingly used in small mushroom farms in African villages.
Like all mushrooms grown at FloydFungi, this species is a primary decomposer, a saprophyte. It initiates the wood decomposition cycle by digesting lignin and cellulose, turning them into organic matter more easily assimilated by other organisms called secondary decomposers. Recent studies have shown that the oyster, to compensate for nitrogen deficiencies in old wood, has developed a predatory technique: it paralyzes, kills, and digests small nematodes (roundworms) it encounters. Don’t worry, our oysters are “vegan”—we supplement our wood with organic wheat bran for nitrogen!
Nutritional Composition
Being a variety of the grey oyster, its nutritional composition is very similar:
- All essential amino acids for humans, especially tryptophan and threonine
- Vitamins : B1, B2, B3, B5, B12, D2 (after one hour of sun exposure)
- Minerals and trace elements: zinc, copper, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, manganese
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Protein: 20–30% (dry weight)
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Polysaccharides: beta-(1,3-1,6)-glucans
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Sterols: ergosterol (provitamin D2), campesterol
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Fibers
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Lectins
Taste Experience
Like its cousin the grey oyster, the white “Florida” oyster has a delicate and refined taste, with a smooth and melting texture. What distinguishes it from the grey oyster is its more fragile cap structure and a firmer stem.
It mixes easily with other oyster mushrooms, and the range of preparations is identical.
I invite you to visit the grey oyster page for recipe ideas.
Functional and Medicinal Aspects
Pleurotus ostreatus var. florida should have functional properties very close to its cousin, the grey oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus).
If you wish to do further research on Pleurotus ostreatus var. florida, here is a direct link to the site listing all known scientific articles to date, PubMed:
pleurotus florida – Search Results – PubMed (nih.gov)
Disclaimer:
It is important to note that studies on the therapeutic properties of these mushrooms are still ongoing.
The information on our website does not replace professional medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease.
Please consult a doctor before using oyster mushrooms for medicinal purposes. Results may vary between individuals.