Shiitake Lentinula edodes

The mushroom that China and Japan is renowned for, the edible and deliciously tasting Shiitake (Lentinula edodes).
Named after the tree that provides the dead logs that the mushroom is cultivated on, the Shii tree or Castanopsis cuspidata is a tree native to southern Japan.
Shiitake is not only a delicacy in Japan but also used for medicinal purposes. In China where this fungi is native to it is known as Xianggu which literally means Fragrant Mushroom. In English it is known as Chinese Black Mushroom and Black Forest Mushroom. Fresh and dried shiitake have many uses in the cuisines of Asia.
In China they are sauteed and put in vegetarian dishes such as Buddha's Delight and in Japan are a popular ingredient in Miso Soup.