A Species Description and Reference Guide for Psilocybe cubensis
Psilocybe cubensis. illustration by IzWoz
Click here to download "A Species Description and Reference Guide for Psilocybe cubensis”
Psilocybe cubensis season in Australia typically spans October to March in the tropical and subtropical climates of northern Australia. Being able to identify Psilocybe mushrooms in their natural habitats is an important skill for foragers, researchers, and enthusiasts.
To help spread the spores of awareness about this iconic species of ‘magic mushroom,’ we have developed a new reference guide tailored to the Australian context.
Due to growing public interest in psilocybin-containing mushrooms and their potential therapeutic applications, Psilocybe cubensis, Australia’s dung-loving tropical fungus, is receiving significant attention.
Resident EGA mycologist, fungi educator, and psychedelic mushroom expert Caine Barlow has once again collaborated with the EGA team to create this unique resource. The guide provides an in-depth exploration of P. cubensis, covering:
Detailed species and habitat descriptions
Its history, taxonomy, and cultural significance
Insights into its pharmacology and psychoactive compounds
An examination of its distribution and ecology
Guidance on identifying common poisonous lookalikes
Critical safety tips, legal considerations, and harm reduction strategies
Important features to aid in the identification of P. cubensis.
The guide is visually enriched with stunning imagery from members of the EGA community, including Caine Barlow, Enjaytee, Sianna-Rose Miller, Des Tramacchi, IzWoz, Adele Wilkes, Jonathan Carmichael and Dr. Alistair McTaggart.
For anyone attempting to identify Psilocybe cubensis in the wild, this resource offers an essential foundation for safe and informed exploration. The combination of expert-reviewed content and visual aids makes it an invaluable tool for beginners and seasoned foragers alike.
Click here to download "A Species Description and Reference Guide for Psilocybe cubensis”
In a related EGA webcast titled ‘Psilocybe cubensis: Identification, history, and diversity’, mycologist Caine Barlow delves into the mushroom's history, taxonomy, and evolving cultural significance. Barlow leaves no historical stone unturned in this engrossing talk charting the mind-altering fungi’s fantastic voyage.
Additionally, Caine has created an engaging presentation that provides a broader overview of Australian Psilocybe species and their lookalikes. This presentation deepens our understanding of these fungi, their habitats, and the precautions needed to interact with them responsibly. Caine also has a very useful video on How to Identify Fungi—A Beginners Guide.
EGA would like to thank Dr Alistair McTaggart, Grace Boxshall, Martin Williams, Symon Beck, Billy Lawrence, Darklight, and others for helping review the document and providing invaluable feedback. Thank you also to our supporters.
If you find this resource valuable, please consider supporting EGA so we can continue to create and share more resources like this!
