Common Magic Mushroom Strains in North America
Magic mushrooms have been used for centuries for their psychedelic properties, and there are many different strains found throughout the world. In North America, several strains of magic mushrooms are prevalent due to their ease of cultivation and potent effects. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the most common magic mushroom strains found in North America, including their appearance, potency, and effects. Whether you’re interested in cultivating your own mushrooms or simply want to learn more about the different strains available, our guide will provide you with the information you need to explore the world of magic mushrooms.
Magic mushrooms are a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States and their possession, sale, and use is illegal under federal law. It is important to note that the consumption of magic mushrooms can be dangerous and potentially harmful to one’s physical and mental health.
That being said, here are some of the most common magic mushroom strains found in North America:
Psilocybe cubensis:
Psilocybe cubensis is one of the most common and widely cultivated species of magic mushrooms. Typically found in warm and humid regions and can grow in a variety of habitats, including fields, pastures, and cow dung. They have a distinctive appearance, with a golden-brown or tan cap that ranges from 2-8 centimeters in diameter, and a stalk that can be up to 15 centimeters tall. Psilocybe cubensis is a moderately potent strain, with effects that typically last for 4-6 hours. Users often report feelings of euphoria, altered perception, and increased sensory awareness. Higher doses can lead to more intense experiences, including hallucinations and profound spiritual insights. Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms are popular among both recreational and therapeutic users, and their ease of cultivation has made them a favorite among beginner mushroom growers.
Psilocybe semilanceata:
Psilocybe semilanceata, also known as the “Liberty Cap,” is a small and slender magic mushroom species that grows wild in grassy areas throughout Europe and North America. It has a distinctive conical cap, ranging in color from pale yellow to dark brown, with a diameter of 0.5-2 centimeters. Psilocybe semilanceata is considered to be a highly potent mushroom, with effects that can last for up to 8 hours. Users often report intense feelings of euphoria, visual and auditory hallucinations, and altered perception of time and space. Due to its high potency, users are advised to approach Psilocybe semilanceata with caution and to start with a low dose. Despite its small size, this species of magic mushroom is highly sought after by recreational users and experienced psychonauts alike.
Psilocybe cyanescens:
Psilocybe cyanescens, also known as the “Wavy Caps,” is a species of magic mushroom that grows wild in coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest. It has a distinctive wavy cap with a caramel-brown color and a diameter of up to 5 centimeters. Psilocybe cyanescens is considered to be one of the most potent species of magic mushrooms, with effects that can last for up to 8 hours. Users often report intense feelings of euphoria, visual and auditory hallucinations, and altered perception of time and space. Due to its high potency, users are advised to approach Psilocybe cyanescens with caution and to start with a low dose. This species of magic mushroom is highly sought after by experienced psychonauts, but due to its limited distribution, it is not as commonly used as other species of magic mushrooms.
Psilocybe baeocystis:
Psilocybe baeocystis, also known as the “Knobby Tops,” is a species of magic mushroom that grows wild in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It has a distinctive knobbed cap with a dark brown color and a diameter of up to 5 centimeters. Psilocybe baeocystis is considered to be a moderately potent species of magic mushroom, with effects that typically last for 4-6 hours. Users often report feelings of euphoria, altered perception, and increased sensory awareness. Higher doses can lead to more intense experiences, including hallucinations and profound spiritual insights. This species of magic mushroom is highly sought after by recreational and therapeutic users, and its ease of cultivation has made it a favorite among beginner mushroom growers.
Psilocybe ovoideocystidiata:
Psilocybe ovoideocystidiata, also known as the “Eastern Flat Top,” is a species of magic mushroom that grows wild in the eastern United States. It has a distinctive flat or slightly concave cap with a yellow-brown color and a diameter of up to 5 centimeters. Psilocybe ovoideocystidiata is considered to be a moderately potent species of magic mushroom, with effects that typically last for 4-6 hours. Users often report feelings of euphoria, altered perception, and increased sensory awareness. Higher doses can lead to more intense experiences, including hallucinations and profound spiritual insights. This species of magic mushroom is highly sought after by recreational and therapeutic users, but due to its limited distribution, it is not as commonly used as other species of magic mushrooms.
Again, it is important to note that the possession, sale, and use of magic mushrooms is illegal in many parts of the world and can be dangerous to one’s physical and mental health.
References:
- Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybin mushrooms of the world: an identification guide. Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press.
- Guzmán, G. (1983). The genus Psilocybe: A systematic revision of the known species, including the history, distribution, and chemistry of the hallucinogenic species. Beihefte zur Nova Hedwigia, 74, 1-437.
- Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybe cyanescens. In Psilocybin mushrooms of the world: an identification guide (pp. 197-202). Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press.
- Erowid. (2021). Psilocybe baeocystis. Retrieved from https://erowid.org/plants/psilocybe/psilocybe_baeocystis.shtml
- Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybe ovoideocystidiata. In Psilocybin mushrooms of the world: an identification guide (pp. 256-259). Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press.
