Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Scientists Solve 245-Year Lingzhi Mushroom Mix-Up in Plants, People, Planet Study

A new study published in Plants, People, Planet by researchers from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and international partners resolves a long-standing confusion between two fungi: Ganoderma lucidum, a European bracket fungus first described in 1781, and Ganoderma lingzhi, the East Asian species known as lingzhi or reishi. For 245 years, the two distinct species were often conflated, largely because the European name G. lucidum was applied to Asian specimens used in traditional medicine. The team clarifies their separate identities, a critical step for accurate labeling, quality control, and research into the medicinal properties of lingzhi, a mushroom widely used in herbal remedies and supplements across Asia and globally. This botanical correction matters for regulators, industry, and consumers seeking authentic lingzhi products. With names now untangled, future studies can build on a solid taxonomic foundation. The findings highlight how precise science underpins the safe and effective use of natural health products worldwide.