Letinula edodes

Letinula edodes

[lə¦tin·yə·lə ē′dō‚dēz] (mycology) The second most widely cultivated mushroom in the world, it is native to Asia and is touted for its medicinal properties (cholesterol reduction and antitumor and immunostimulating activities) and flavorful addition to foods. Also known as the shiitake mushroom.