Hypsizygus tessulatus falls under the umbrella concept of the Japanese "Shimeji" mushrooms. Firm textured, this mushroom is considered one of the most "gourmet" of the Oyster-like mushrooms. Recently, this mushroom has been attributed to having anti-cancer properties. Increasingly better known, this obscure mushroom compares favorably to Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus pulmonarius in North American, European and Japanese markets.
Mushroom cultivation is the intentional introduction of spores or live tissue to favorable conditions in which further growth may take place. Many hobby growers cultivate mushrooms inside of their homes or outdoors on their properties. Large commercial growers often use massive grow-houses to optimize yield over costs. Regardless, everything starts with spores and all cultivators, big and small, must follow the same basic process.