About Azurescens Mushrooms
Psilocybe azurescens stands as a pinnacle among psychedelic mushrooms, boasting an impressive array of active compounds, including psilocybin and psilocin. With up to 1.8% psilocybin, 0.5% psilocin, and 0.4% baeocystin by dry weight, it ranks among the most potent members of the tryptamine-bearing mushroom family. Typically, it averages around 1.1% psilocybin and 0.15% psilocin. Belonging to the family Hymenogastraceae in the order Agaricales, this species captivates both researchers and enthusiasts with its potent psychedelic properties.
Pileas
The cap (pileus) of Psilocybe azurescens presents itself in a range of 3–10 cm (1.2–3.9 in) in diameter, initially conic to convex before expanding to broadly convex and eventually flattening with age. It features a pronounced, persistent broad umbo and a smooth surface covered by a separable gelatinous pellicle. Colors range from chestnut to ochraceous brown to caramel, often developing dark blue or bluish-black zones. This hygrophanous nature leads to a fading of color to a light straw hue upon drying, with strong bruising observed when damaged.
Azurescens Mushroom Photos
Gills
The lamellae of Psilocybe azurescens are ascending, sinuate to adnate, typically brown but often stained black when injured. They are close, with two tiers of lamellulae, mottled, and edged with whitish margins.
Stipe
Measuring 9–20 cm (3.5–7.9 in) in length and 3–6 mm (0.1–0.2 in) in thickness, the stipe of Psilocybe azurescens is silky white, potentially dingy brown from the base or with age, and hollow at maturity. It's composed of twisted, cartilaginous tissue, with the base thickening downwards and often curved. Dense rhizomorphic mycelium surrounds the stipe base, holding wood chips together tenaciously.
Taste and Odor
The taste of Psilocybe azurescens is described as extremely bitter, while its odor ranges from odorless to farinaceous.
Habitat and Distribution
This species occurs naturally along a limited area of the West Coast of the United States, including parts of Oregon and California. It has been sighted as far south as Depoe Bay, Oregon, and as far north as Grays Harbor County, Washington. P. azurescens primarily thrives around the Columbia River Delta, with significant populations found in Hammond, Oregon, and Long Beach to Westport, Washington. Feral specimens have also been reported in Stuttgart, Germany. This mushroom favors decaying wood and sandy soils rich in woody debris, often appearing in clusters on coastal dune grasses. Fruitings typically begin in late September and extend into late December or early January, providing a narrow window for observation and harvest.
What effects can I expect from Azurescens Mushrooms?