Funghi

Ganoderma lingzhi

S tier

Ganoderma lingzhi is the species name many modern mycologists assign to the East Asian cultivated “true” lingzhi formerly lumped under G. lucidum—genetically distinct from European lucidum populations. Caps are still red-varnished and bitter; the rename matters for accuracy more than for a new flavour. Most Chinese farmed reishi aligns with this concept. Use identically to red reishi in decoctions. Labels may still say G. lucidum; specialty growers increasingly print G. lingzhi. Tough texture unchanged—always extract, don’t chew as a steak.