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Wavy caps

Psilocybe cyanescens

A species of Psilocybe, Also known as Blue meanies

This fungus grows wild along the western coastline of Canada and the US, and has spread to other areas through woodchip mulch. Ingestion of wavy caps mushrooms can cause psychosis, nausea, vomiting, or seizures. Further, similar-looking mushrooms that are extremely toxic to the liver and kidneys also grow on woodchips in the same areas.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 5 cm

Odor:

Mild, faintly flour-like aroma.

General Info About Wavy caps

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Attributes of Wavy caps

Cap Diameter

2 - 5 cm

Height

4 - 8 cm

Cap

Cap 1.5 - 5 cm across;distinctly wavy; slightly yellowish; stain blue when touched or otherwise disturbed

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky, Visible lines or stripes

Gills

Adnate; close, subdistant; brown; stain blue when touched or otherwise disturbed

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

3 - 6 cm tall, 3 - 6 mm thick; equal; white; smooth to silky; turn blueish or blue-green when bruised

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

Thin; brittle in age; bruising blue

Volva

None

Ring

No distinct annulus

Ring

With Ring Zone

Spore Print Color

Blackish-brown to very dark purple-brown

Odor

Mild, faintly flour-like aroma.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Bronze

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to blue

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods, Wood Chips or Mulch, Leaf or Needle Litter

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Mainly in the Pacific Northwest

Endangered Species

How to Identify Wavy caps

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Wavy caps

The wavy caps is found in urban environments, rarely in wooded areas. It grows in humus and rich soil, so it's often found around decaying wood, particularly wood chips, sawdust, and mulch.

Uses of Wavy caps

Wavy caps is renowned for its potent hallucinogenic properties due to the presence of psychoactive compounds. It's sought after for spiritual and recreational purposes, albeit within legal constraints. Its availability peaks in the fall. Wavy caps is not a common edible mushroom; it requires caution and awareness of legalities and health risks before use.

Scientific Classification of Wavy caps

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Hymenogastraceae

Genus

Psilocybe

Toxicity and Edibility of Wavy caps

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Is Wavy caps Toxic to Dogs?

Wavy caps is toxic to dogs due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. Symptoms appear around half an hour to four hours after consumption and include dizziness, barking, confusion, and anxiety. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.

Similar Species to Wavy caps

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Funeral bell

Similar Species

Wavy caps

How to Differentiate Between Funeral bell and Wavy caps?

Wavy caps: Shows blue bruising when damaged.

Funeral bell: Lacks noticeable blue bruising.

Mower's mushroom

Similar Species

Wavy caps

How to Differentiate Between Mower's mushroom and Wavy caps?

Wavy caps: Exhibits a distinct blue staining when damaged.

Mower's mushroom: Shows no noticeable color change when bruised.

Wavy caps: Has dark purple-brown to black gills.

Mower's mushroom: Features light brown to mottled gills.

Tips for Finding Wavy caps

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When is the Best Time to Find Wavy caps

Search for wavy caps in late fall when temperatures range from 50-60°F (10-15°C) after a period of rain. Mild, wet conditions are usually best.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Wavy caps

Rich in lignin-rich debris, moist but not waterlogged.

What are Some Tips for Finding Wavy caps

Look for wavy caps in locations where wood chips and mulch are prevalent, such as landscaped gardens and parks.
Search around woody debris and piles of leaf litter, where wavy caps may be emerging.
Focus on areas that are routinely watered or have natural moisture retention.
Pay attention to mulched flowerbeds and other cultivated areas where wood chips have been used.
Check under dense plant growth or shrubs where the ground is shaded and moist.

How to Clean and Preserve Wavy caps

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How to Clean Wavy caps

To clean wavy caps, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush. If necessary, lightly rinse the surface, avoiding soaking, then pat dry with a paper towel. Handle wavy caps with care to maintain their structural integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Wavy caps

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

3 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers, cool, dark, dry environment, away from direct sunlight.

Dehydrator drying: Removes moisture efficiently while preserving quality.

Oven drying: Set oven at lowest possible temperature, door slightly open.

Air drying: Natural method, requires warm, dry, well-ventilated space.