Michael Davis
Psilocybe cyanescens, commonly known as the wavy cap or potent psilocybe, is a species of psychedelic mushroom first described by Elsie Wakefield in 1946. It is not generally considered physically dangerous to adults, and the psychoactive compounds can be removed through parboiling. However, it is often confused with the highly toxic Galerina marginata, which can cause serious liver and kidney damage. Identifying cyanescens mushrooms can be tricky due to their resemblance to other species, so several key characteristics are essential to distinguish them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Wavy caps, potent Psilocybe, blue meanies, Blkueleg Brownie |
| Scientific Name | Psilocybe cyanescens |
| Species | Potent psychedelic mushroom |
| Compounds | Psilocybin, Psilocin |
| Family | Hymenogastraceae |
| Fruiting Temperature | 10-18 °C (50-65 °F) |
| Cap | Small, 1.5-4 cm in diameter, dry, hemispheric, expands to a convex shape, light brown, fades to off-white or light grey |
| Gills | Dark brown to black, tightly spaced, attached only to the underside of the cap |
| Stem | Slender and tall, 7-12 cm in height, stains bluish or blue-green when damaged |
| Habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions, temperate regions, wood chips, rotting wood, mulch |
| Spore Print | Dark purplish brown |
| Edibility | Not generally regarded as physically dangerous to adults. Can be rendered non-psychoactive through parboiling |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Check the size: Caps are 1.5–5 cm wide, and stems are 7–12 cm tall
- Observe the colour: Caps are light brown to chestnut brown, fading to off-white or light grey when mature
- Examine the gills: They are dark brown to black, tightly spaced, and only attached to the underside of the cap
- Inspect the spores: Elliptical spores are dark purplish brown and leave a black spore print
- Note the habitat: Cyanescens grow in temperate regions, often on wood chips, rotting wood, or mulch
Check the size: Caps are 1.5–5 cm wide, and stems are 7–12 cm tall
When identifying cyanescens mushrooms, one key characteristic to look out for is the size of the mushroom. The caps of cyanescens mushrooms typically range from 1.5 to 5 cm in width, while the stems are generally between 7 and 12 cm tall. This makes them relatively small mushrooms, which can make identification challenging as there are many other small mushroom species, some of which are highly toxic.
The size of the mushroom is an important factor in identification, as there are many mushroom species with similar appearances, and the size can help to narrow down the possibilities. Additionally, the small size of cyanescens mushrooms can also have implications for their culinary use, as they may be considered too small to have significant nutritive value.
It is worth noting that the size of mushroom caps and stems can vary even within the same species, so it is important to consider other characteristics as well when identifying cyanescens mushrooms. Additionally, the environment and growing conditions can also influence the size of mushrooms, so it is essential to take into account the specific context in which the mushrooms are found.
When examining the size of mushroom caps, it is important to consider the shape and colour as well. Cyanescens mushrooms typically have wavy caps that are brown or golden yellow in colour. The caps may also become viscid or glutinous when damp, which can be an additional distinguishing feature.
Overall, while the size of the caps and stems is an important factor in identifying cyanescens mushrooms, it should not be the only factor considered. It is crucial to look at the overall morphology of the mushroom, including the shape, colour, and texture of the cap and stem, as well as other characteristics such as the presence of a ring or partial veil, to confidently identify cyanescens mushrooms.
Szechuan Beef: Mushrooms or Not?
You may want to see also
Observe the colour: Caps are light brown to chestnut brown, fading to off-white or light grey when mature
When identifying cyanescens mushrooms, it is important to observe the colour of the cap. The cap of a cyanescens mushroom is typically light brown to chestnut brown when immature, and it fades to off-white or light grey as it matures. This colour change is a key characteristic that distinguishes cyanescens mushrooms from other similar species.
The scientific name for this mushroom is Psilocybe cyanescens, and it is commonly known as the wavy cap or potent Psilocybe due to its distinctive cap shape and potent psychoactive compounds. The caps of these mushrooms are generally small, ranging from 1.5 to 5 cm in diameter, and they are characterised by their wavy edges.
It is worth noting that the colour of the cap can vary slightly depending on the moisture content. When moist, the cap may appear more caramel or chestnut brown, while it fades to a paler colour when dried. However, regardless of the moisture level, the distinctive light brown to chestnut brown colour of the cap in immature mushrooms is a key identifying feature.
Additionally, the colour of the gills underneath the cap can also provide useful identification clues. The gills of cyanescens mushrooms are light brown to dark purple brown, with lighter gill edges. These gills are tightly spaced and only attached to the underside of the cap, not to the stem. Checking the gills is particularly important when identifying mushrooms, as caps and stems can sometimes be deceptive in terms of colour and shape.
It is crucial to accurately identify cyanescens mushrooms to distinguish them from similar-looking species, such as Galerina marginata, which can be highly toxic and cause serious health issues if consumed. Therefore, paying close attention to the colour of the cap and other key characteristics is essential when identifying cyanescens mushrooms to ensure accurate identification and avoid potential health risks associated with misidentification.
Mushrooms: Highly Addictive or Not?
You may want to see also
Examine the gills: They are dark brown to black, tightly spaced, and only attached to the underside of the cap
When identifying mushrooms, it is important to exercise caution. There are thousands of mushroom species, and distinguishing between psychoactive and harmful varieties requires careful observation. One such variety, Psilocybe cyanescens, can be identified by examining the gills.
The gills of Psilocybe cyanescens are adnate, and light brown to dark purple brown in maturity, with lighter gill edges. They are tightly spaced and only attached to the underside of the cap. They start out as pale tan, developing dark spots over time and eventually turning completely dark purple brown. The gills show through as lines on the outer part of the cap. When wet, they are shiny and slimy. The margin is thick and hangs over the gills.
The colour of the gills can be a vital distinguishing feature. For example, toxic Amanita muscaria and Amanita phalloides mushrooms often have stark white gills and bulbous bases.
It is also important to note that the gills of Psilocybe cyanescens can stain blue when touched or disturbed, likely due to the oxidation of psilocin. This staining can also occur on other parts of the mushroom, including the cap and stem.
Mushroom Anchors: Why You Need a Chain
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Inspect the spores: Elliptical spores are dark purplish brown and leave a black spore print
Inspecting the spores is a crucial step in identifying Psilocybe cyanescens mushrooms, commonly known as wavy caps or potent psilocybe. These mushrooms have elliptical spores that are dark purplish brown and leave a black spore print.
The process of inspecting mushroom spores involves creating a spore print, which is a technique used to identify mushrooms accurately. It involves collecting the spores as they fall from the gills of the mushroom onto a piece of paper or glass. This results in a pattern of spores, known as a spore print.
To create a spore print for identifying Psilocybe cyanescens, you'll need the following materials: a mushroom specimen, a piece of dark-coloured paper or glass, and a container to enclose the mushroom and the paper/glass. Start by cleaning the mushroom with a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the mushroom gill-side down on the paper or glass. Place the container over the mushroom and paper/glass to create a enclosed space. Leave this setup for several hours or overnight.
After the allotted time, carefully lift the mushroom to reveal the spore print. If the spores are elliptical and dark purplish brown, leaving a black spore print, then it is likely that your specimen is Psilocybe cyanescens. This distinctive spore colour is a key characteristic of this mushroom species.
It is important to note that Psilocybe cyanescens is a psychedelic mushroom species that contains the compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds can induce hallucinations and other psychological effects. Therefore, proper identification of this mushroom species is crucial to avoid accidental ingestion with potentially harmful consequences.
Mushroom Keto-Friendly: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Note the habitat: Cyanescens grow in temperate regions, often on wood chips, rotting wood, or mulch
Psilocybe cyanescens, also known as Bklueleg Brownie or wavy caps, are small brown mushrooms that grow in temperate regions. They are a species of potent psychedelic mushroom, primarily found on wood chips, rotting wood, or mulch. They are distinct from other mushrooms due to their unique habitat and appearance.
The mushrooms are known to grow in temperate regions, favouring cooler temperatures between 10-18 °C (50-65 °F). They typically fruit towards the end of the season, often appearing around Halloween with the onset of cold weather. This preference for cooler temperatures and specific timing makes their habitat unique.
Psilocybe cyanescens are commonly found on wood chips, rotting wood, or mulch. They seem to have an affinity for wood-based substrates, which is a key characteristic of their habitat. This habitat preference can help distinguish them from other similar mushroom species.
In addition to their preferred substrates, Psilocybe cyanescens often grow in large groups, either singly or in small clusters. They are known to produce colossal quantities of mushrooms, with reports of over 100,000 individual mushrooms found growing in a single patch. This abundance can make their presence quite noticeable in their preferred habitats.
The mushrooms themselves are small, typically measuring between 1.5-5 cm (1/2-2 inches) across. They have a caramel to chestnut-brown cap when moist, which can fade to a paler colour when dried. The caps are hygrophanous, meaning they change colour depending on moisture levels. The margins of the caps are distinctively wavy, especially as the mushrooms mature, giving them their common name, "wavy caps."
In summary, Psilocybe cyanescens are small psychedelic mushrooms that favour temperate regions and wood-based substrates. Their unique habitat preferences, growth patterns, and physical characteristics make them distinct from other mushroom species. When identifying Psilocybe cyanescens, noting their habitat, timing of fruiting, and physical appearance are crucial factors to consider.
Mushroom Extract: A Natural Remedy for Herpes?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Psilocybe cyanescens, commonly known as the wavy cap or potent psilocybe, is a species of psychedelic mushroom. It has a wavy-edged cap that is caramel to chestnut brown in colour. The cap is small, usually 1.5–4cm in diameter, and dry. The gills are dark brown to black, tightly spaced, and only attached to the underside of the cap. The stem is slender and tall, ranging from 7–12cm in height. The mushroom has elliptical spores that measure 9–12 x 5–8 μm. The spores are dark purplish brown, which is a distinctive feature for identification.
The key characteristics of Psilocybe cyanescens include its wavy-edged cap, small size, and dry texture. The gills are dark brown to black and tightly spaced, and the stem is slender and tall. The spores are elliptical and dark purplish-brown, which is a key identification feature.
It is important to distinguish Psilocybe cyanescens from other similar species, such as Galerina marginata, which can be highly toxic. The two mushrooms have generally similar habits and appearances, but there are some key differences. The spores of Psilocybe cyanescens are dark purplish-brown, while those of Galerina marginata are rusty brown or cinnamon brown. The stem of Galerina marginata turns black with age, while the stem of Psilocybe cyanescens is white when undisturbed but can bruise bluish or blue-green when damaged.
Misidentifying cyanescens mushrooms can have serious health risks. Some similar-looking mushrooms, such as Galerina marginata, contain deadly toxins that can cause severe liver and kidney damage. It is always recommended to go mushroom foraging with someone who has knowledge and experience in mushroom identification to avoid any potential hazards.
Psilocybe cyanescens is a species of psychedelic mushroom, and its main compounds are psilocybin and psilocin. The effects of consuming these mushrooms include visual and auditory hallucinations, dilation of pupils, confusion, loss of control of body movements, psychosis, nausea, and vomiting. Severe reactions may include elevated levels of methaemoglobin, fever, and seizures.
