Panaeolus cinctulus

Panaeolus cinctulus, commonly known as the Banded Mottlegill, Weed Panaeolus, or Subbs, is a species of fungus in the family Bolbitiaceae. This mushroom is widely distributed and is often found in lawns, meadows, and pastures across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, typically growing in rich, grassy areas following rain. Panaeolus cinctulus is known for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin, compounds that have hallucinogenic effects.

Description

Panaeolus cinctulus features a cap that is 1.5 to 4 cm in diameter, initially bell-shaped before flattening out with age, often with a slight umbo. The cap surface is smooth, gray-brown to blackish, and can appear mottled. The gills are adnate to adnexed, close, and range in color from gray to nearly black. The stem is 4 to 10 cm long and 2 to 3 mm thick, cylindrical, and bears a whitish color, sometimes with a slight ring or ring zone. Spores are black in print, smooth, and lemon-shaped.

Habitat and Distribution

Panaeolus cinctulus is saprobic, thriving on decomposing organic matter, and is commonly found in fertilized lawns and grassy areas, as well as in dung-rich pastures, from late spring to fall. Its widespread distribution includes various regions across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The mushroom's ability to grow in a variety of conditions contributes to its common occurrence.

Psychoactivity

The psychoactive effects of Panaeolus cinctulus are attributed to its content of psilocybin and psilocin, two psychoactive alkaloids. These compounds can induce visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, and changes in thought processes. The potency of Panaeolus cinctulus can vary significantly depending on factors such as habitat, age, and weather conditions.

Legal Status

The legal status of Panaeolus cinctulus varies by country and region, largely due to its psychoactive properties. In many areas, the possession, sale, or cultivation of mushrooms containing psilocybin and psilocin is regulated or prohibited.

See Also

• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychoactive substances
• Hallucinogens

References

	gills on hymenium
	or flat
	stipe is bare
	spore print is black
	ecology is saprotrophic
	edibility: psychoactive