Magic mushrooms come in a broad variety of potencies, colors, and sizes. Across the globe, there exists a multitude of psychedelic mushrooms, each genus possessing its own unique psychoactive properties. Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound, can be found in over 200 mushroom species worldwide.
Nevertheless, certain varieties of psychedelic mushrooms may not contain psilocybin but are still capable of producing intense experiences. One such species is Amanita Muscaria also known as Fly Agaric. This mushroom, along with its active compounds, muscimol, and ibotenic acid, can induce powerful hallucinogenic effects. However, for the sake of this article, we will explore only the psilocybin-containing ones.
Different Types Of Magic Mushrooms
A wider group of fungi known as the Psilocybe genus is included in the Hymenogastraceae family. When classifying mushrooms according to their kind, the term “genus” is used. Psilocybe cubensis, where “Psilocybe” represents the genus and “cubensis” specifies the species, is a prominent example of this. There are over 200 psychedelic mushroom species and they are usually classified into 7 diferent categories.
- Psilocybe
- Gymnopilus
- Copelandia
- Panaeolus
- Hypholoma
- Galerina
- Mycena
As Psilocybe genus is the most commonly used all over the world we will focus on the mushroom species within this genus.
7 Most Potent Species from Psilocybe Genus
1. Psilocybe Subaeruginosa
Psilocybe subaeruginosa, a highly potent psychedelic mushroom, is predominantly found in Australia. It contains 1.93% psilocybin and 0.17% psilocin, making it three times more potent than Psilocybe cubensis. The cap of this mushroom is caramel-colored, fading to yellow, while the stem varies in thickness and length. Additionally, when any part of the mushroom is bruised, it turns blue. Some people from mycology circles speculate that this might be the most potent magic mushroom specie in the world.
2. Psilocybe Azurescens
Flying Saucer mushrooms, scientifically known as Psilocybe azurescens, have a substantial psilocybin content of up to 1.78% along with 0.38% psilocin. They thrive in the Oceanic Climate of the Pacific Northwest and can be found in coastal grasslands and decaying woodlands spanning from British Columbia to Oregon, as well as in Europe. These mushrooms exhibit a distinctive appearance with a light-brown bell-shaped cap, a long white stem, and when any part of the mushroom is bruised, it turns blue.
3. Psilocybe Serbica
These psychedelic mushrooms are frequently encountered in central Europe. They typically cluster together, growing on decomposed wood, twigs, compost, and even dung. The cap of these mushrooms can vary in color, ranging from brown to deep orange, while the stem appears white to cream-colored. Similar to Psilocybe cubensis, when these mushrooms are harmed, they exhibit a blue bruising reaction. Standing at fascinating 1.35% Psilocybin and 0.11% Psilocin they are the third most potent specie on our list.
4. Psilocybe Semilanceata
Psilocybe semilanceata is commonly known as Liberty Caps, or Blue Legs in some cases, probably due to its blue bruising stems, which alongside its distinct appearance and potent effects raised the popularity of the specie. This bell-shaped mushroom is prevalent in Europe, North America, Australia, and South America and comprises 0.98% psilocybin and 0.02% to 0.1% psilocin in its chemical composition.
5. Psilocybe Baeocystis
Psilocybe Baeocystis, commonly referred to as Bottle Caps, Knobby Tops, or Bluebell psychedelic mushrooms, are a truly unique specie initially discovered in Oregon. Typically, they contain approximately 0.85% psilocybin, 0.59% psilocin, and 0.10% baeocystin. These psychedelic mushrooms are prevalent in the Pacific Northwest region, thriving on decaying mulch, ground bark, and wood chips.
6. Psilocybe Cyanescens
Psilocybe cyanescens, commonly referred to as Wavy Caps, shares a close relation with Psilocybe azurescens and Psilocybe subaeruginosa. These mushrooms are easily distinguished by their unique features, characterized by brown, undulating caps and thick, light-colored stems, which led to their nickname. The species is widespread in the United Kingdom, certain regions of the United States, and Europe. Wavy Caps are primarily found growing through wood mulch and woody debris, showcasing their affinity for wood-rich environments.
7. Psilocybe Cubensis
Psilocybe cubensis, a widely recognized magic mushroom species, typically contains 0.63% psilocybin, 0.60% psilocin, and 0.025% baeocystin. Keep in mind that the exact composition can vary among different P. cubensis strains. This species has gained popularity due to its ease of cultivation. Spore prints, spore syringes, and grow kits for P. cubensis are readily available online.
P. Cubensis is known for its adaptability and versatility, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates in the wild. Ongoing research in mycology labs continues to unveil new strains, making it challenging to determine the exact number of existing varieties. Cultivators often create hybrids by blending multiple strains or isolating specific growth traits using agar plates from well-known strains. As a result, there are numerous popular strains of Psilocybe cubensis accessible and here are some of the most popular ones:
- African Transkie
- Albino Roller Coaster
- B+
- Brazilian
- Cambodian
- Costa Rican
- Daddy Long Legs
- Golden Teachers
- Mazatapec
- Melmac
- Penis Envy
- Yeti
The Final Word
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with valuable insights into some of the best-known magic mushroom species. From the highly potent Psilocybe subaeruginosa to the unique Psilocybe Baeocystis and the versatile Psilocybe cubensis, each species offers its own distinct characteristics and effects. Remember that having a great knowledge of the magic mushroom you are planning on consuming can help you determine the dosage more precisely and predict the effects to some extent. May your journey be enlightening and profound, happy tripping!
