| Property | Specification |
| Scientific Name | Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris |
| Common Name | Cordyceps, Caterpillar Fungus, Chinese Caterpillar Fungus |
| Appearance | Thin, orange to yellowish-brown cylindrical shape, resembling a small fungus or caterpillar |
| Size | Length: 4 to 8 cm; Width: 2 to 5 mm (varies with species and growing conditions) |
| Color | Bright orange, reddish-brown, or yellowish-brown (depending on drying process) |
| Texture | Dry, brittle, slightly fibrous when harvested and dried |
| Odor | Earthy, slightly musty, mild fungal smell |
| Taste | Bitter, earthy, slightly woody or mushroom-like |
| Moisture Content | 6–8% (when dried) |
| Weight | 2 to 4 grams (per dried specimen, depending on size and species) |
| Active Compounds | Cordycepin, adenosine, polysaccharides, beta-glucans, ergosterol, and amino acids |
| Shape | Elongated, club-like, tapering at the end, with a slight curve |
| Surface | Smooth, but may appear slightly wrinkled or cracked when dried |
