The Truth About Lion’s Mane vs NZ Lion’s Mane (Pekepeke-Kiore)

In New Zealand, “lion’s mane” can refer to two completely different mushrooms, which is why there’s so much confusion online.

One is Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), the widely researched mushroom used in supplements for focus, clarity, and cognitive support.

The other is a native New Zealand species called Pekepeke-Kiore, sometimes referred to as “NZ Lion’s Mane.”

While they look similar, they are not the same, and understanding the difference is essential if you want to choose the right product.

Quick comparison:

• Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): widely used in supplements and studied for cognitive support.

• NZ Lion’s Mane (Pekepeke-kiore / Hericium novae-zealandiae): a native species with limited research and different use cases.

Key Differences at a Glance

What is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a distinctive white, cascading mushroom that grows naturally on hardwood trees throughout Asia, Europe, and North America. What makes it particularly notable is its rich profile of bioactive compounds, including hericenones and erinacines, which have drawn scientific attention for their potential to support the nervous system.

Lion’s Mane mushrooms have been valued as a food source in traditional East Asian medicine for centuries. However, their rise to prominence as a modern dietary supplement in the West has only occurred in more recent years.

The Proven Benefits of True Lion’s Mane

So, what are the real, science-backed benefits of Lion’s Mane?

Everyone’s experience is different, but its true value lies in its ability to support cognitive health and emotional wellbeing.

Mental Clarity & Focus

Many people describe feeling more clear-headed, focused, and mentally sharp after taking Lion’s Mane regularly, especially during stressful times where concentration tends to fade. Rather than a stimulant-like “boost,” it’s often reported as a clean, steady feeling of being more switched on, organised, and able to stay on task.

Mood and Emotional Wellbeing

Lion’s Mane has also attracted attention for its potential to support emotional balance and wellbeing. Many people say they feel more centred, grounded, or resilient when taking it regularly, especially when life feels hectic. It has become a popular option for those wanting to nurture their overall sense of wellbeing without relying on stimulants or harsh ingredients.

What is NZ Lion’s Mane?

“NZ Lion’s Mane” is a term commonly used to describe Pekepeke-Kiore, a native New Zealand fungus that closely resembles the true Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). Both belong to the Hericium genus and have some visual similarities.

However, they are entirely different species, native to opposite hemispheres, and have distinct genetic makeups and ecological roles. Pekepeke-Kiore grows naturally only here in New Zealand, typically on dead or decaying native woods such as tawa, beech, and other hardwoods.

Despite the similar appearance, Pekepeke-Kiore is not a New Zealand-grown version of Lion’s Mane, but its own unique native species.

Are There Proven Benefits of NZ Lion’s Mane?

Scientific research on Pekepeke-Kiore is still in its early stages. There are currently no published studies showing that it has the same neurological effects that have been documented for Hericium erinaceus.

It’s also important to note that real Lion’s Mane cannot legally be grown in New Zealand, meaning any product claiming to be NZ grown “Lion’s Mane” isn’t the same species that research refers to.

Which one should I choose?

It ultimately comes down to what you’re looking for.

• If your goal is focus, clarity, or cognitive support
  You’re most likely looking for Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), the species used in the majority of scientific research and commonly found in mushroom supplements.
• If you’re interested in native New Zealand fungi
  Pekepeke-kiore may be what you’re looking for, particularly from an ecological, cultural, or local species perspective.
• If you’re comparing mushroom supplements
  Pay close attention to the exact species used, the extraction method, and whether the product has been independently tested for purity and potency.

If your goal is cognitive support, this is where most people begin exploring Lion’s Mane supplements in more detail.

What’s the Source of Confusion?

So, what’s causing the mix-up? It largely comes down to how they’re presented and the assumptions that follow.

Misleading Marketing

Brands often use the term “NZ Lion’s Mane” to create familiarity, which can lead buyers to assume the two are interchangeable.

This means people may expect results supported by Lion’s Mane research that the local species hasn’t yet been shown to match.

The Imported vs Locally Sourced Debate

As interest in functional mushrooms grows, the conversation often turns to where they’re produced.

But locally grown does not necessarily mean higher quality. Mushrooms absorb substances from their environment, so how they’re grown and tested matters far more.

How to Tell Real Lion’s Mane from the Rest

Clear labelling and proper testing are essential.

Check the species name

True Lion’s Mane: Hericium erinaceus
NZ Lion’s Mane: Hericium novae-zealandiae (Pekepeke-kiore)

Avoid mycelium on grain

Many lower-quality products include grain filler. Look for clean, fruiting body extracts where possible.

Check the extraction method

High-quality extracts use dual extraction to capture the full range of beneficial compounds.

Assess supplement quality

Look for products backed by third-party testing to ensure safety and potency.

Beta-glucan levels can vary significantly between products depending on the species used, extraction methods, and whether grain is present in the final extract. Independent beta-glucan testing is one of the most reliable ways to assess the quality and concentration of a mushroom supplement.

Looking Ahead

The future of functional mushrooms in New Zealand depends on transparency, education, and science-led decision making.

At Flow State, we focus on helping people access authentic, research-backed Lion’s Mane in its most effective form.

Find Real Lion’s Mane at Flow State

Flow State is a proud supplier of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), with products tested in New Zealand for purity and potency.

Order Lion’s Mane capsules and experience the difference quality makes.

Disclaimer: It is important to consult a health professional before taking supplements if you have a health condition, are taking medication, are pregnant, or nursing.