Magic Mushrooms Classification
To properly discuss the various types of mushrooms, it’s important to have an understanding of certain classification terms.
The majority of psychedelic mushrooms that are commonly used today are part of a category, or genus called Psilocybe. This is why the scientific name for many psychedelic mushroom species will typically start with a “P.” There are other magic mushroom species that originate from the genera Gymnopilus or Copelandia.
Each genus of mushroom contains various species, which are identified by a lowercase letter when written scientifically. For example, P. cubensis. Additionally, within each species, there are different strains that possess unique chemical compounds and produce distinct psychoactive experiences.
There are some exceptions but for the most part, magic mushrooms have three psychoactive compounds:
• Psilocybin
• Psilocin
• Baeocystin
Top 5 Psilocybe Cubensis Mushrooms
- Penis Envy Supreme
As the name suggests, Penis Envy mushrooms are recognized for their phallic appearance. They have a thick, wrinkled stem with a bulbous cap that closely resembles a circumcised human penis, making them significantly larger than other psilocybin mushrooms.
Compared to other P. cubensis strains, penis envy is less resilient to contamination making it a challenging strain to grow. Although, if you take its high potency into account, these difficulties are worth it.
Users often report that the effects from penis envy mushrooms produce significantly “wavy” visuals when compared to other strains with a minimal body load. - Golden Teachers
Golden Teacher mushrooms are notably larger than other strains, with big, yellowish caps. Despite taking longer to mature, these mushrooms are sturdy and can yield significant crops, making them an excellent option for cultivation. They are also considered a great introductory mushroom as the effects are not overwhelming, which makes them suitable both for beginners and experienced users.
The name “teachers” is fitting for this strain due to the clarity and insight that its use can provide. Trips associated with Golden Teacher mushrooms are often more focused on the mental aspects, as opposed to physical or visual effects. - Tidal Wave
Tidal Wave mushrooms are a hybrid strain that results from crossing B+ with Penis Envy mushrooms.
These mushrooms are characterized by their fast growth, much like B+, and their high potency, similar to Penis Envy. Tidal Wave mushrooms possess the highest psilocybin content of all known Cubensis strains, that’s why it’s considered not to be the best choice for beginners.
Some speculate that it got its name due to rapid and powerful effects, akin to a tidal wave. A notable effect that users often experience with this strain is a strong sense of euphoria. - Albino Roller Coaster
Also known as ARC are widely considered to be among the most visually striking mushrooms available. The strain was developed by the Canadian mycology group Magic Myco, who sought to create a new version of the Rollercoaster isolation, resulting in a sister strain to Albino Tidal Wave (the first-ever Psilocybin Cup winner).
This strain of mushroom is leucistic, which means that its cells lack pigment, resulting in a beautiful, snowy white canopy with stunning gills. In addition to their stunning appearance, users often describe the effects of consuming Albino Roller Coaster Magic Mushrooms as visually dominant yet comfortable, making them well-suited for beginners. - Brazilian
It’s a type of magic mushroom that originates from Brazil and other nearby South American countries. This strain of Psilocybe Cubensis is moderately potent, offering a gentle experience that is perfect for beginners as it is not overwhelming or intense. The mushrooms themselves are large and fruitful, featuring larger caps and smaller stems. Psychonauts appreciate Brazilian Cubensis for its long-lasting, powerful high and its insightful psychotropic effects. This unique variant of magic mushrooms offers psychotropic properties that can help users with mood and behavior issues while providing intense visual stimulation and a positive high. Brazilian Cubensis is a versatile mushroom suitable for micro-dosing, recreational, and medicinal use, making it an excellent choice for any occasion or setting.
Other Types Of Magic Mushrooms
P. cubensis may be the most popular and accessible species of magic mushrooms, but it’s definitely not the only one out there. Other mushroom species such as Psilocybe azurescens, Psilocybe semilanceata, Psilocybe cyanescens, and Psilocybe tampanensis are all found growing in the wild all over our planet!
Psilocybe azurescens
P. azurescens, also known as “flying saucer” mushrooms because of their broad, UFO-shaped caps, is a species indigenous to North America. These mushrooms are found growing in the Pacific Northwest region of America, including Oregon, Washington, California, and British Columbia, primarily along coastal dunes close to rivers. They are also considered the strongest mushroom species in the world!
Psilocybe semilanceata
P. semilanceata is a widely distributed magic mushroom species. While it grows most abundantly in Europe, it can also be found in North America, Canada, South Africa, Chile, Northern India, Australia, and New Zealand.
It’s recognized for its long thin stems and distinctive, convex, bell-shaped caps which led to its common name, “liberty caps.” Due to the difficulty of cultivation, most individuals forage P. semilanceata in the wild. Users have described the effect of this mushroom as strong head high with intense visual hallucinations.
Psilocybe cyanescens
P. cyanescens is a magic mushroom species that is native to the West Coast of North America, particularly in Oregon where it is found in abundance. It is a saprophytic mushroom, which means that it decomposes dead matter, and can be found growing on rotting wood in forests, as well as on wood chip mulch and sawdust in urban areas. The species is named after its large, wave-shaped caps which have a caramel color.
Psilocybe tampanensis
P. tampanensis is an uncommon type of mushroom discovered in subtropical climates, particularly in Florida and across the Gulf Coast to Mexico.
These mushrooms look ordinary with small brown caps. However, it’s not the fruiting body that’s significant, but the dense clusters of mycelia created by the fungus, called sclerotia or truffles.
The psychoactive truffle-like sclerotia produced by P. tampanensis are famous and marketed under the name “philosopher’s stones” because of their spiritual and insightful impacts.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many different species of magic mushrooms and they all differ in potency and the effects they produce. Psilocybe cubensis may be the world best know species of magic mushrooms, although they are not the only ones. By considering the information from this article, you will be able to determine and select the strain that suits your needs and preferences. Remember to stay safe and enjoy the trip!
