In Canada, the diversity of magic mushrooms is both interesting and significant. Various species are found in areas such as the Pacific Northwest, often growing on conifer mulch. The psychoactive compounds found in these magic mushrooms, primarily psilocybin and psilocin, are responsible for their hallucinogenic effects.
If you want to know more about these shrooms found in Canada, then this article is for you. We'll discuss the various types, as well as help you gain insights on how to properly identify ones that can be spotted in the wild.
What are the Different Types of Magic Mushrooms Found in Canada?
Among the list of magic mushrooms you provided, the following are known to be found or are native to various regions in Canada:
Psilocybe Azurescens
Known for its high potency, this species typically grows in sandy soils like those found in dunes and beaches.
Regional Distribution
Native to the West Coast of the USA, it has been introduced into the Lower Mainland of BC.
Potency
Considered very potent, with strong blue staining indicative of high psilocybin content.
Psilocybe Baeocystis
Commonly found in residential and institutional landscaping, especially associated with conifer bark chips.
Regional Distribution
Abundant in the 1980s around Vancouver, it still occurs in suburban developments adjacent to forested or agricultural lands.
Potency
Very potent, known for darkly staining blue.
Psilocybe Cyanescens
Known as "Wavy Caps," these mushrooms often grow in landscaped areas with woodchips, particularly fond of alder chips.
Regional Distribution
Found in recently landscaped areas and disused clearings in the Pacific Northwest, including parts of Canada.
Potency
High psilocybin levels, providing a potent psychedelic experience.
Psilocybe Cyanofibrillosa
Rarely found growing in tangled roots along flood zones of wild mountain rivers and in landscaped areas with woodchip mulches.
Regional Distribution
Occurs in wild mountain areas and landscaped settings in the Pacific Northwest.
Potency
Not explicitly mentioned, but as a Psilocybe species, it likely contains psychoactive compounds.
Psilocybe Fimetaria
Resembles Psilocybe stuntzii but has a membranous ring on its stem.
Regional Distribution
This European mushroom has appeared in grassy fields and pastures in the Lower Mainland.
Potency
Not specified, but possibly moderate given its resemblance to Psilocybe stuntzii.
Psilocybe Pelliculosa
Small brown mushrooms growing in conifer debris and litter.
Regional Distribution
Found along trails, logging roads in second growth forest lands, and landscaped areas in conifer mulch.
Potency
Low potency species, resembling other non-psychoactive forest mushrooms.
Psilocybe Semilanceata (Liberty Cap)
Grows from dead grass roots, especially common in wet pastures.
Regional Distribution
Widely distributed across British Columbia, thriving in wet coastal areas.
Potency
Highly regarded by enthusiasts for its "user-friendly" nature.
Psilocybe Stuntzii
Common weed species in urban and suburban landscapes, very low in potency.
Regional Distribution
Found in lawns and plantings in woodchip mulch or soils containing woody materials.
Potency
Very low, and closely resembles some deadly Galerina species.
Psilocybe Subfimetaria
Resembles the Liberty Cap but lacks the exaggerated pointy nipple and has a heavy zone of veil fibrils around the stem.
Regional Distribution
Discovered in Vancouver and also found in Washington and Oregon.
Potency
Not specifically mentioned, but likely similar to Psilocybe semilanceata.
Conocybe Cyanopus
Delicate and tiny mushrooms growing in wet mossy lawns.
Regional Distribution
Found during wet summers and warm early fall across various parts of Canada.
Potency
Eating not recommended due to potential toxicity concerns.
Gymnopilus Aeruginosus
Large, brightly colored, and bitter-tasting mushrooms that grow on wood.
Regional Distribution
Found in various parts of Canada.
Potency
Not specified, but likely lower than Psilocybe species.
Panaeolus Subbalteatus (Panaeolus Cinctulus)
Grows in very rich manured soils, newly laid lawns, and landscaping.
Regional Distribution
Found in old leached horse manure and rotting straw around stables across Canada.
Potency
Not explicitly mentioned, but known to contain psychoactive compounds.
How to Identify Magic Mushrooms in the Wild
Identifying magic mushrooms in the wild requires careful observation and knowledge of their key features. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you accurately identify these fungi:
Step 1: Understanding Habitat
Magic mushrooms typically thrive in specific environments. Look for them in areas with high humidity and moderate temperatures.
Common habitats include cattle pastures, decomposing grass, rotting wood, and forest edges. Remember, magic mushrooms don’t usually grow in arid or semi-arid environments.
Step 2: Identifying Mushroom Species in Your Area
Familiarize yourself with the species common to your location. Each region has specific types of magic mushrooms.
For example, in British Columbia, Canada, species like Psilocybe cyanescens and Psilocybe semilanceata are common. Utilize resources like Shroomery.org for a comprehensive list of species found in various regions.
Step 3: Key Identification Features
Study the distinguishing features of magic mushrooms. Important characteristics to note include cap color and shape, stem length and color, spore print color, and gill configuration.
Step 4: Optimal Foraging Time
Know the best season for foraging in your area. Magic mushrooms usually appear in specific seasons, depending on the climate and region.
For instance, in temperate areas, they're more commonly found during the fall.
Step 5: Accurate Identification
Verify your findings. After foraging, compare your mushrooms with pictures and descriptions from reliable sources.
When in doubt, consult local mycology experts or online identification forums like the Shroomery.org forums. Avoid consuming any mushrooms if you're not 100% certain of their identification.
Step 6: Making Spore Prints
Use spore prints for precise identification. Place the mushroom cap on a piece of white paper or glass, cover it, and leave it for several hours.
A spore print can confirm the mushroom type based on its color. Psilocybe mushrooms typically leave a purple-black print.
Additional Tips
Learn About Common Look-alikes
Some non-psychedelic mushrooms closely resemble Psilocybe species and can be toxic.
Prioritize Safety
Never consume wild mushrooms unless you're absolutely sure of their identity. When in doubt, consult with experienced foragers or mycologists.
Respect Local Laws and Regulations
regarding the foraging and consumption of wild mushrooms.
Conclusion
If you're considering consuming them, it's better to contact a reliable online weed store where you can access their magic mushroom delivery service.
So, to conclude, there are various magic mushrooms found in Canada. From one type to another, you'll surely understand and find what you're truly looking for.
We hope you learned something new today, and check out more of our content for similar topics!
