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Blue meanies

Panaeolus cyanescens

A species of Panaeolus, Also known as Pan cyan

The blue meanies (Panaeolus cyanescens) grows abundantly from composted dung in fields across the globe. They are small in size, with short, bell-shaped caps iridescent pale blue in color. The underside of the cap displays gills that are widely spread apart. This mushroom is a toxic poisoning risk. Consumption is not recommended.

Cap Diameter:

1 - 4 cm

Odor:

Mildly earthy with a nondescript mushroom scent.

General Info About Blue meanies

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Attributes of Blue meanies

Cap Diameter

1 - 4 cm

Height

2 - 9 cm

Cap

Cap 1.5 - 4 cm across; hemispheric, campanulate to convex; light brown, off-white, light gray, yellowish, brownish; incurved margin; turning greenish or blue where damaged

Cap Shape

Bell-shaped, Convex

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Adnate to adnexed attachment; close; gray, black

Gill Attachment

Free to Attached

Stem

Stem 7 - 12 cm long, 2 - 3 mm thick; slightly enlarged at the base; light brown, light gray, yellowish; staining blue where bruised

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin, bruising blue or bluish-green

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Black

Odor

Mildly earthy with a nondescript mushroom scent.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to blue

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

You can find Blue meanies by these plants:

Spruces

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Blue meanies

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Blue meanies

The Panaeolus cyanescens is mostly found in disturbed areas, particularly those rich in woody debris. It is often found near Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga taxifolia) or cedar (Thuja) and around well-mulched rhododendron plants. It grows in humus, on wood chips, leaf litter, or decayed coniferous wood.

Uses of Blue meanies

Blue meanies is recognized for its psychoactive properties, primarily due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. It's sought after by those interested in its hallucinogenic effects, which can alter perception and mood. However, it's important to note that blue meanies is not legally permitted in many regions and poses significant health risks if misused. Caution is advised when dealing with this species, as improper use can lead to adverse reactions.

Scientific Classification of Blue meanies

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Genus

Panaeolus

Toxicity and Edibility of Blue meanies

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Is Blue meanies Toxic to Dogs?

All parts of blue meanies contain psilocybin, which has significant but not life-threatening effects on dogs. Symptoms can occur between thirty minutes and four hours after ingestion and may include anxiety, disorientation, ataxia, tachycardia, and barking. If symptoms persist, contact a vet. These mushrooms are common in the wild but have an unpleasantly bitter taste which generally makes them unappealing to dogs.

Similar Species to Blue meanies

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Mower's mushroom

Similar Species

Blue meanies

How to Differentiate Between Mower's mushroom and Blue meanies?

Blue meanies: Cap is smooth and somewhat sticky when wet.

Mower's mushroom: Features a dry, not sticky even when wet cap.

Blue meanies: Stem bruises blue when handled.

Mower's mushroom: Stem does not exhibit significant color change when bruised.

Panaeolus antillarum

Similar Species

Blue meanies

How to Differentiate Between Panaeolus antillarum and Blue meanies?

Blue meanies: Smaller cap and closer gills.

Panaeolus antillarum: Larger cap and more distant gills.

Blue meanies: Bruises blue when handled or damaged.

Panaeolus antillarum: Lacks a bluing reaction upon bruising.

Petticoat mottlegill

Similar Species

Blue meanies

How to Differentiate Between Petticoat mottlegill and Blue meanies?

Blue meanies: Exhibits blue or blue-green bruising where damaged.

Petticoat mottlegill: Does not display any blue bruising.

Tips for Finding Blue meanies

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When is the Best Time to Find Blue meanies

Seek blue meanies during warm, humid periods following a rain, typically late spring through fall. Morning searches after a night of rain can yield the best results.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Blue meanies

Enriched, manured soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Blue meanies

Seek out open fields or pastures with a history of manure application, as blue meanies thrives in such environments.
Wear appropriate footwear for potentially uneven and damp terrain while searching for blue meanies.
Look for small groups or clusters of blue meanies, as they are more commonly found in this arrangement.
Inspect areas where the grass appears particularly lush, as this can indicate the presence of the nutrients that blue meanies prefers.
Always obtain permission to explore private lands and be respectful of property boundaries while foraging for blue meanies.

How to Clean and Preserve Blue meanies

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How to Clean Blue meanies

To clean blue meanies, carefully brush off any soil or debris, avoiding water to maintain their integrity. If necessary, use a damp paper towel to gently wipe each mushroom. Handle blue meanies gently to prevent damage during the cleaning process.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Blue meanies

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in dark, cool place with desiccants to control moisture and ensure airtight sealing.

Dehydrator drying: Removes moisture effectively, preventing mold and retaining quality for a longer duration.

Oven drying: Set at a lower temperature, provides consistent warmth to ensure thorough dryness without burning.

Air drying: Utilize natural airflow and low humidity; may be slower, suited for dry environments