With over 190 species of psilocybin mushrooms roaming around the world, many of you have probably wondered which one is the strongest of them all. The magic mushroom that takes the throne for the strongest species is without a doubt the Psilocybe Azuerecens. This species was originally discovered by Boy Scouts in the USA, and it wasn’t until Paul Stamets identified them in 1996 that they became listed as an official species.
Habitat & Distribution
These powerful mushrooms are native to the West Coast of the USA, from California to Washington state, however they can also grow naturally in other countries under the right conditions. They grow gregariously, meaning that they grow individually and sporadically, or they can grow in tight and small clusters.
The optimal environment for this species is in grassy coastal dune areas, where there is a large presence of sandy soils, as well as deciduous (decaying) wood-chip containing high lignin content. The ideal temperature for the cultivation of these mushrooms is 16-24°C, however they can withstand much lower temperatures. The cultivation period for this species in its native habitat can take up to 6 months, with the fruiting/blooming happening between September and early January (Paul Stamets). However, if you wish to grow these in other areas of the world, you must take into account that this cultivation period will differ.
Disclaimer: This cultivation period is based on its native habitat, so if you wish to grow these in Europe, you must take into account that this cultivation period can differ.
Characteristics
This beautiful species is characterized by the following:
- UFO-shaped mushroom cap, which has a range in diameter of 3 – 10cm.
- The mushrooms’ color ranges from light brown to dark brown, with blue marks forming as they age.
- A stem, also known as the stipe, ranges from 9-20 cm in length
- Ability to withstand cold temperature ranges from -4 – 20°C
- Outdoor cultivation
- Bitter taste
- High levels of psychoactive components
Potency, Effects, and Dosage
As this is the strongest species in the world, one can expect it to pack a serious punch. According to Stamets and Gartz, the species can contain up to 1.78% psilocybin, 0.38% psilocin and 0.35% baeocystin. To put this into relative terms, it is about four times the strength of the Psilocybin Cubensis species that consumers are used to consuming.
The effects of the mushroom can vary per person, but as little as one gram of dried shrooms can certainly cause heavy hallucinogenic visuals and dimensional traveling. The only potential, but very rare, side effect of consuming any dose of this mushroom species is that it can cause what is known as Wood Lovers Paralysis. This can result in a temporary loss of muscle strength for a short period of time, subsequently leading to some anxious effects.
The dosage of this species differs per person, but as a rule of thumb these are the estimated dosing levels for this species (shroomery.org):
- Level 1 (Mild)
- Level 2 (Light Colours and Visuals)
- Level 3 (Obvious Visuals)
- Level 4 (Strong Hallucinations)
- Level 5 (Loss of reality)
Legal status
The legality of this species varies per country, therefore if you wish to cultivate them it is important to know the legal status of your location.
Did you enjoy this article? Visit our other blogs. We regularly post interesting articles related to everything surrounding Mushrooms
The information provided by Mondo Grow Kits on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not advocate the use of any illicit products, nor does it constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Always consult your doctor before making any decisions about healthcare.