Psilocybe pelliculosa

Psilocybe pelliculosa Washington

Psilocybe pelliculosa is a species of fungus in the family Hymenogastraceae. It is known for its psychoactive properties, primarily due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. This species is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.

Description

Psilocybe pelliculosa has a distinctive appearance. The cap is typically conical to bell-shaped, measuring 1–2 cm in diameter. It is hygrophanous, meaning it changes color depending on its moisture content, ranging from a dark brown when wet to a lighter tan as it dries. The surface of the cap is smooth and often has a gelatinous pellicle that can be peeled off.

The gills are adnate to adnexed, close, and initially pale brown, becoming darker with age as the spores mature. The stipe is slender, measuring 4–8 cm in length and 1–2 mm in thickness, with a whitish to brownish coloration. It is often slightly curved and has a fibrous texture.

The spore print of Psilocybe pelliculosa is dark purplish-brown. Microscopically, the spores are ellipsoid, smooth, and measure 10–13 by 6–7 µm.

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe pelliculosa is typically found in coniferous forests, particularly in areas with abundant decaying wood and forest litter. It is most commonly encountered in the fall, from September to November. This species is widely distributed in the Pacific Northwest, including regions of Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.

Psychoactive Properties

Psilocybe pelliculosa contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which are known to produce hallucinogenic effects. The potency of this species is considered to be relatively low compared to other psilocybin mushrooms, such as Psilocybe cubensis and Psilocybe semilanceata.

Legal Status

The legal status of Psilocybe pelliculosa varies by country and region. In many places, the possession, sale, and use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms are regulated or prohibited. It is important to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding these substances.

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychedelic drug
• Mycology