At a glance
Common names: New Zealand lion’s mane, pekepeke-kiore, coral tooth and fungus icicles
Botanical name: Hericium novae-zealandiae
Kingdom: Fungi
Family: Hericiaceae
Native status: Indigenous to New Zealand
Natural habitat: Forest environments, where it grows on decaying wood
Part used in food and research: Fruiting body, with some research also examining isolated compounds and extracts
Traditional context: Scientific literature records traditional consumption as food by Māori
Modern research: Early investigations into polysaccharides, other fungal compounds, antioxidant activity and biological effects in laboratory models
Important distinction: Research on New Zealand lion’s mane remains limited. Results from laboratory experiments or from Hericium erinaceus do not establish the clinical benefits of H. novae-zealandiae.
Meet New Zealand lion’s mane
New Zealand lion’s mane is a striking fungus that develops soft, pale, cascading spines from a branching fruiting body. Growing on dead or decaying wood, it can look like a cluster of delicate white icicles emerging from a tree trunk or fallen log.
Its scientific name is Hericium novae-zealandiae. It belongs to the genus Hericium, a group of fungi recognised for their tooth-like or spine-bearing fruiting bodies.
The name can cause confusion. The better-known lion’s mane, Hericium erinaceus, usually forms a rounded, shaggy mass with long hanging spines. New Zealand’s native species tends to be more branched and coral-like, which helps explain the common name coral tooth.
Although the mushrooms look related, the two are not interchangeable. They are distinct species with potentially different chemical compositions, growing requirements and biological properties.
New Zealand botanical and fungal databases recognise H. novae-zealandiae as an indigenous species. Some commercial sources describe it as endemic, but the more cautious term native or indigenous is appropriate when discussing the species without making a stronger claim about its global distribution.
Older scientific and popular references may use different names or group it with similar-looking fungi. For that reason, botanical identification is more reliable than relying on the common name “lion’s mane” alone.
An important part of the forest ecosystem
Like other wood-decaying fungi, New Zealand lion’s mane contributes to the natural recycling of organic matter.
As it grows on dead or decaying wood, fungal enzymes help break down complex components of the wood. This returns nutrients to the wider forest ecosystem and supports the processes through which fallen branches and trunks gradually decompose.
The fruiting body is the visible part of a much larger organism. Much of the fungus exists as microscopic, branching filaments known as mycelium within the wood or other growing substrate. The fruiting body develops under suitable environmental conditions and produces the spores through which the fungus reproduces.
In New Zealand, the species has been recorded in lowland podocarp–broadleaf forest habitats. It is associated with hardwood substrates and is generally recorded in autumn in the wild, although cultivated specimens can fruit when growing conditions are suitable.
Its natural environment also explains why moisture, humidity and fresh air are important when cultivating it. The fungus depends on a suitable substrate and a favourable microclimate rather than simply being placed in soil like a garden plant.
Pekepeke-kiore and traditional food use
Scientific literature describes Hericium novae-zealandiae as a native New Zealand mushroom traditionally consumed as food by Māori.
This history is important, but it needs to be described accurately. Traditional consumption as food does not automatically establish that the fungus had the same medicinal role attributed to other species of Hericium in international herbal literature.
Rongoā Māori is a broad system of healing that includes plant-based remedies, physical therapies, spiritual dimensions and relationships with people and the natural environment. Its knowledge has been maintained through generations and can differ among iwi, hapū, whānau and practitioners.
It would be inappropriate to assume that every native organism used traditionally as food was also prescribed as medicine, or to invent a medicinal history simply because modern researchers are interested in its chemical constituents.
For this reason, this guide distinguishes the documented history of food use from contemporary interest in potential health applications. The current scientific literature provides a basis for discussing the fungus’s chemistry and preliminary laboratory research, but it does not justify presenting New Zealand lion’s mane as an established treatment for memory problems, neurological disease or cancer.
People wishing to learn more about traditional Māori relationships with native species should seek reputable cultural resources and, where appropriate, guidance from knowledgeable Māori practitioners.
What does New Zealand lion’s mane contain?
The fruiting bodies of Hericium novae-zealandiae contain a range of naturally occurring compounds. Researchers are investigating these substances to understand how this native fungus differs chemically from other species in the same genus.
Several groups have attracted particular attention.
Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates made from linked sugar units. Fungi contain many different polysaccharides, some of which have been investigated for their biological activity.
Researchers have isolated water-soluble and alkali-soluble polysaccharide fractions from H. novae-zealandiae. In laboratory studies, these isolated fractions showed activity in certain experimental models, including effects on the growth of some prostate cancer cell lines.
However, a polysaccharide fraction extracted and tested in a laboratory is not equivalent to eating the whole mushroom or consuming an ordinary mushroom powder. Its concentration, structure and experimental conditions can differ considerably from those in a food or supplement.
Hericenones
Hericenones are a group of compounds associated with some Hericium species and have attracted attention in research involving nerve growth and other biological processes.
In a study of New Zealand lion’s mane, researchers detected hericenone C in an ethanol extract. They measured it at 0.75 milligrams per gram of dry mushroom material under the study’s analytical conditions.
The same analysis did not detect erinacine A or hericenone D in that extract.
These results demonstrate why it is important to analyse the actual species rather than assuming it contains the same compounds, at the same levels, as a related mushroom.
The absence of a compound in a particular analysis does not necessarily prove that it is absent from every specimen or preparation. Results depend on the sample, extraction procedure and analytical method.
Ergosterol and ergosterol peroxide
Ergosterol is a sterol found in fungi and is related to the role cholesterol plays in animal cell membranes. Researchers have also identified ergosterol peroxide in H. novae-zealandiae.
These compounds have been investigated for various biological effects. In the New Zealand species, ergosterol peroxide has attracted particular attention because of its activity in experiments involving prostate cancer cell lines.
That finding is a starting point for further research, not proof that eating the mushroom prevents or treats cancer.
Other compounds
Investigations of Hericium species have considered numerous other constituents, including nucleosides and additional lipid-soluble compounds.
The overall chemical profile can vary with the species, growing substrate, developmental stage, environmental conditions and preparation method. A fresh fruiting body, dried mushroom powder, water extract and ethanol extract may therefore contain different proportions of the compounds of interest.
For consumers, the important point is that “New Zealand lion’s mane” describes a species, not a standardised chemical formulation. Products bearing the same common name may not be compositionally equivalent.
What does modern research tell us?
Research into New Zealand lion’s mane is still at an early stage. Several studies provide useful information about its chemistry and preliminary biological activity, but there is not yet a strong body of human clinical evidence establishing specific health benefits.
Research into polysaccharides
A 2019 study investigated polysaccharides isolated from H. novae-zealandiae. The researchers tested these fractions against three prostate cancer cell lines in laboratory conditions and also investigated antioxidant activity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme involved in breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Some of the fractions inhibited the growth of particular cell lines, while the extracts showed antioxidant activity and weak acetylcholinesterase inhibition under the study conditions.
These results help identify possible avenues for future research. They do not demonstrate that the mushroom treats prostate cancer, improves memory or produces a clinically meaningful effect in humans.
Experiments involving isolated cells cannot account for all the processes that occur after a person eats a mushroom or takes an oral supplement, including digestion, absorption, metabolism and the concentrations that ultimately reach tissues.
Research into ethanol extracts
A subsequent study investigated an ethanol extract of H. novae-zealandiae and several individual compounds isolated from it.
The researchers reported antiproliferative activity against three prostate cancer cell lines. They also investigated changes in gene expression associated with processes including programmed cell death and inflammatory signalling.
The ethanol extract showed antioxidant activity and weak acetylcholinesterase inhibition in the experimental systems used.
These are laboratory findings. They do not establish that New Zealand lion’s mane can prevent, treat or cure cancer. Results obtained using isolated cells and concentrated extracts cannot be translated directly into an effective or safe human dose.
Identifying compounds unique to Hericium
A further study published in 2022 examined compounds associated with the Hericium genus in H. novae-zealandiae.
The researchers detected hericenone C but did not detect erinacine A or hericenone D in the ethanol extract examined. The study developed an analytical method for measuring hericenone C in the species.
This work is particularly relevant to the popular interest in lion’s mane products. It shows that the chemical profile of the New Zealand species needs to be evaluated on its own merits rather than assumed to be identical to that of H. erinaceus.
It also illustrates the difference between detecting a chemical constituent and demonstrating that the whole mushroom produces a specific health outcome.
What about brain health and nerve growth?
Lion’s mane products are often marketed for memory, concentration, mental clarity and neurological support. Much of the international discussion is based on preclinical research into H. erinaceus, including experiments involving compounds associated with nerve growth.
That research may provide useful hypotheses for scientists studying other Hericium species. It does not automatically demonstrate that H. novae-zealandiae has the same effects.
The species differ, their measured constituents can differ, and the relevant concentrations and biological effects have to be tested directly. Claims that the native New Zealand species improves memory, stimulates nerve regeneration or prevents neurodegenerative disease require evidence specific to that species and the preparation being sold.
Is there clinical evidence in people?
The published studies discussed above are primarily chemical investigations and laboratory experiments. They do not establish a clinically effective dose for New Zealand lion’s mane, and they do not provide strong evidence that it treats a particular medical condition in people.
There is separate human research into H. erinaceus, but that is not a substitute for clinical trials of H. novae-zealandiae.
Well-designed human studies would be needed to establish whether a particular New Zealand lion’s mane preparation has a meaningful health benefit, which people might benefit, what dose is appropriate and what adverse effects or interactions may occur.
The overall picture: New Zealand lion’s mane is an interesting native fungus with several identified constituents and promising preliminary laboratory findings. Its traditional food history and scientific potential are worth exploring, but claims of proven medicinal effects would go beyond the current evidence.
Food, powders, extracts and supplements
New Zealand lion’s mane can be encountered in different forms, from the fresh fruiting body to dried powders and concentrated extracts.
These forms should not be considered interchangeable.
Fresh mushrooms
A correctly identified, food-grade fruiting body can be considered in the context of culinary use. Fresh mushrooms contain their natural mixture of water, fibre, carbohydrates and other constituents.
As with other mushrooms, handling, freshness, storage and thorough preparation matter. Anyone collecting wild mushrooms must be confident in the species identification and suitability of the collection site. Appearance alone is not sufficient for safe identification.
Dried mushroom powders
Drying reduces water content and makes the mushroom easier to store and incorporate into foods or other preparations.
A powder made from the whole fruiting body may have a different composition from one made from mycelium grown on a substrate. Neither format should automatically be considered superior without considering the product’s purpose, composition and supporting evidence.
Consumers should look for the correct scientific name, the part of the fungus used, the amount per serving and clear information about the manufacturer.
Extracts
Extracts are made using a specified process to concentrate or separate particular constituents. Water and alcohol-based extraction methods can produce different chemical profiles.
The laboratory findings described earlier came from particular isolated fractions and extracts. They should not be interpreted as proof that any retail powder or extract will contain the same constituents at equivalent levels.
When evaluating a concentrated preparation, look for information about the extraction method, the concentration or standardisation if relevant, and analytical testing that supports the manufacturer's description of the product.
Choosing a product responsibly
Before selecting a New Zealand lion’s mane supplement, ask:
- Is the scientific name Hericium novae-zealandiae clearly stated?
- Is the product made from fruiting bodies, mycelium or a specified extract?
- Are serving size and ingredients clearly labelled?
- Does the manufacturer provide batch-specific quality information or relevant contamination testing?
- Are claims based on research into the actual species and preparation, or are they extrapolated from another mushroom?
A label that says “lion’s mane” alone is insufficient to confirm the species.
Growing New Zealand lion’s mane
New Zealand lion’s mane is a wood-decaying fungus, so cultivation involves providing a suitable substrate rather than planting it in ordinary garden soil.
Cultivated specimens are commonly grown on prepared substrates, with growers managing moisture, humidity, air exchange and light exposure. The exact requirements depend on the strain, the substrate and the stage of growth.
Because the fruiting body can dry out under unsuitable conditions, humidity management is important. At the same time, stagnant air and excessive moisture can create problems for cultivation, so fresh air and clean growing conditions matter.
For home growing, a reputable local grow kit can be a practical option. Follow the supplier’s instructions rather than assuming that the requirements for this native species are identical to those of H. erinaceus or another mushroom.
Cultivation also creates an opportunity to learn about the fungus’s life cycle, from mycelial growth through the development of the fruiting body and release of spores.
Wild harvesting is a separate matter. A mushroom growing on a log in the forest should not be presumed safe to eat merely because it resembles a cultivated specimen.
Safety considerations
An edible history does not establish that every extract or concentrated supplement is safe for everyone. Safety information specific to New Zealand lion’s mane remains limited.
Correct identification: Never consume a wild mushroom based solely on a photograph, a common name or a superficial resemblance. Seek confirmation from a suitably knowledgeable mycologist or expert before considering wild specimens for food.
Allergy and intolerance: Mushrooms can cause allergic reactions or digestive symptoms in some people. Stop using a product if you experience an adverse reaction, and seek appropriate care for serious symptoms.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Reliable safety data for medicinal or concentrated preparations of H. novae-zealandiae are limited. Avoid assuming that a supplement is suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding without advice from an appropriate health professional.
Medicines and health conditions: The clinical interaction profile of this species is not well established. If you use regular medicines, have a chronic health condition or are considering a concentrated extract, discuss the specific product with a qualified health professional or pharmacist.
Cancer treatment: Laboratory findings involving cancer cell lines are not a reason to use the mushroom as cancer treatment or to replace prescribed care. Anyone undergoing cancer treatment should discuss supplements with their treating team before use.
Product quality: Mushrooms and mushroom products can vary in composition and may be affected by contaminants or unsuitable processing. Choose products with clear identification, transparent manufacturing information and appropriate quality controls.
Unexplained or persistent symptoms: Do not use a supplement as a substitute for investigating ongoing memory problems, neurological symptoms, unexplained weight loss or other concerning changes in health.
The absence of documented adverse effects is not the same as proof of safety. More research is needed to establish the safety of specific preparations, appropriate amounts and possible interactions.
Understanding the potential of a native fungus
New Zealand lion’s mane sits at an interesting intersection of ecology, traditional food use and modern fungal research.
Its native status makes it valuable to understand in its own right, rather than treating it simply as a local substitute for an overseas supplement. Its chemistry may overlap with that of related species, but the similarities and differences need to be demonstrated by careful research.
Good scientific practice involves asking what has actually been tested, which compounds were identified, how a preparation was made and whether results have been demonstrated in humans. Good consumer practice involves asking the same questions before accepting a product’s claims.
There is genuine scientific interest in H. novae-zealandiae, but promising laboratory results are a reason to continue investigating the species, not a basis for promising medical outcomes.
In summary
New Zealand lion’s mane (Hericium novae-zealandiae), also known as pekepeke-kiore or coral tooth, is a distinctive indigenous fungus that grows on decaying wood and has been recorded in traditional Māori food use.
Scientific studies have identified a range of constituents, including polysaccharides, hericenone C, ergosterol and ergosterol peroxide. Some isolated fractions and extracts have demonstrated biological activity in laboratory experiments.
However, these early findings do not prove that New Zealand lion’s mane improves cognition, treats inflammation or prevents or treats cancer. Evidence from the better-known Hericium erinaceus should not be transferred directly to the New Zealand species.
For anyone interested in this native fungus, the most thoughtful approach is to appreciate its ecological and cultural context, choose accurately labelled and quality-controlled products, and remain realistic about what current evidence can establish.
Sources and further reading
1. Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Biota of New Zealand. Hericium novae-zealandiae — taxonomic classification, indigenous status and recorded distribution. https://biotanz.landcareresearch.co.nz/scientific-names/45e63eb1-ddd8-40ce-b18c-046ab83dfc9c 2. New Zealand Fungi. Hericium novae-zealandiae — morphology, habitat, substrate and fungal identification information. https://www.fungi.co.nz/fungi/family/hericiaceae/heric01.htm 3. Chen, Z. et al. (2019). “Assessment of In Vitro Bioactivities of Polysaccharides Isolated from Hericium novae-zealandiae.” Antioxidants, 8(7), 211. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox8070211 4. Chen, Z. et al. (2020). “Characterization of the bioactivities of an ethanol extract and some of its constituents from the New Zealand native mushroom Hericium novae-zealandiae.” Food & Function. https://doi.org/10.1039/C9FO01672D 5. Chen, Z., Buchanan, P. K. & Quek, S. Y. (2022). “Identification and Determination of Compounds Unique to Hericium in an Edible New Zealand Mushroom Hericium novae-zealandiae.” Food Analytical Methods. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12161-021-02098-x 6. Health New Zealand. Rongoā Māori — an introduction to traditional Māori healing and its wider context. https://www.healthnz.govt.nz/health-topics/tests-and-treatments/rongoa-maori 7. National Library of Medicine, PubMed. “Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic review.” This review concerns the separate species H. erinaceus, illustrating why its evidence should not be treated as proof of effects from H. novae-zealandiae. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40959699/ This guide is educational and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, expert mushroom identification or guidance from a qualified rongoā Māori practitioner.