Panaeolus Cyanescens

Panaeolus cyanescens, often referred to as "blue meanies" or "Copelandia cyanescens," is a potent psilocybin-containing mushroom species that is well-regarded for its intense psychoactive effects. Among the most powerful mushrooms of its kind, Panaeolus cyanescens is especially prized by experienced users seeking a profound and immersive experience. Given its strength, accurate identification and careful dosage are essential. *This particular variety is from Australia and thus named: "Down Under"

Identification and Characteristics:

• Cap: The caps of Panaeolus cyanescens are conical to bell-shaped, ranging from 1.5 to 4 cm across. Initially light brown, they fade to off-white or light gray as they mature. In dry conditions, the caps may develop cracks and exhibit slight hygrophanous properties, turning bluish or greenish when bruised.
• Gills: The gills are broadly adnate to adnexed, starting out gray and turning black as the spores mature. They have a mottled appearance, with white edges that stand out against the darker gill faces.
• Stem: The stem is slender, measuring 7 to 12 cm in length and 2 to 3 mm in thickness. It is pruinose, with a color similar to the cap, and stains blue when bruised, indicating the presence of psilocybin.
• Spores: Panaeolus cyanescens spores are jet black, elliptical in shape, and measure 12-15 x 7-11 μm. These spores are smooth and opaque, with a distinct germ pore, and are best observed under a microscope.

Comparison with Psilocybe cyanescens: While both Panaeolus cyanescens and Psilocybe cyanescens (known as "wavy caps") contain psilocybin, they differ significantly in appearance and potency. Psilocybe cyanescens has wavy-edged caps that are caramel to chestnut brown and grows in large clusters with shorter stems. In contrast, Panaeolus cyanescens has more conical or bell-shaped caps, is taller, and has a whitish coloration. Due to its higher potency, consuming a dose of Panaeolus cyanescens similar to Psilocybe cyanescens can lead to an overwhelming experience if not properly prepared.

Habitat and Substrates: Panaeolus cyanescens is a coprophilous species, thriving in tropical and subtropical regions where it is commonly found in dung-enriched soil. It also performs well on a variety of substrates, including a combination of grain and manure, and can be cultivated on straw. This flexibility in growth conditions, combined with its potent effects, makes it a popular choice among cultivators and mycologists alike.