Aspen Oyster; Poplar Oyster
Though morphologically similar to Pleurotus ostreatus and P. pulmonarius, this Pleurotus is a distinct species incapable of mating with the others. It is found in the mountainous regions of the PNW fruiting in late spring and early summer. Look for it on aspen and cottonwood. The photographs depict it growing on standing black cottonwood killed by a fire. It is sometimes browner than the other species, but not reliably so. The caps are 4-19 cm broad by 4-13 cm wide. Cap color is quite variable, ranging from snowy white to bluish gray, to buff to ochre to brownish. Caps start inrolled but often flatten out in age. Gills are white and decurrent, but may become yellowish in age. They drop buff spores. The flesh is thick, firm, rubbery, and white. They give off a sweetish and pleasant fragrance, with earthy notes. Some detect an anise odor. It is a choice edible that can be used in any recipe suitable for other oyster species.