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Scarlet Caterpillar Fungus
Cordyceps militaris
Orange medicinal mushroom grown on grain. Contains cordycepin. Requires sterile technique and patience.
Growing Timeline
Total time from inoculation to harvest: approximately 98 days
Growth Phases
1
Inoculation
Typically 1-1 days
Temp: 20-24°C
Humidity: 60-70%
Tasks
- Prepare rice or grain substrate
- Inoculate with liquid culture
- Use sterile containers
Tips
- Sterile technique critical
- Small containers work well
2
Colonization
Typically 21-30 days
Temp: 20-24°C
Humidity: 60-70%
Tasks
- Store in dark
- Wait for full grain colonization
Tips
- Orange mycelium is normal
- Full colonization important
3
Fruiting
Typically 45-60 days
Temp: 16-20°C
Humidity: 85-95%
Tasks
- Expose to 12hr light cycle
- Drop temperature
- High humidity
- Fresh air
Tips
- Light triggers fruiting
- Orange clubs emerge from grain
4
Harvest
Typically 1-7 days
Temp: 16-20°C
Humidity: 85-95%
Tasks
- Harvest when tips round off
- Dry immediately
Tips
- Contains cordycepin compound
- Dry for tea or capsules
Common Issues
- Contamination (strict sterility needed)
- No fruiting (needs light cycle)
Growing Tips
- Adaptogenic energy support
- Strict sterile technique required
- 12hr light cycle triggers fruiting