Milky Mushroom
Calocybe indica
A heat-loving white mushroom developed in India, well suited to hot, humid plains and with a longer shelf life than most.
Growing requirements at a glance
- Scientific name
- Calocybe indica
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Fruiting temp
- 25 to 35°C
- Substrate
- Pasteurised straw with casing
- Best season
- Hot, humid months
- Shelf life
- Longer than most
Overview
Milky mushroom (Calocybe indica) is a tall, white summer mushroom developed in India. It is well suited to the hot, humid climate of the central and southern plains and stands out for its longer shelf life.
Growing conditions
It grows on pasteurised straw and fruits at about 25 to 35°C, which makes it a strong choice when oysters struggle in the heat. It needs a casing layer of moist soil or coir over the colonised substrate to fruit well, and it likes high humidity.
In the kitchen
Milky mushroom has a mild taste and a firm texture that holds up in curries and stir-fries. Its longer shelf life makes it easier to store and market than more delicate species. Cook it fully before eating.
Grower tips
The casing layer is the key step that many first-time growers miss. Keep it moist and give the mushroom warmth and humidity for good flushes.
