Damon Mcknight
Psilocybe cubensis, also known as cubes or gold tops, are one of the most widespread and common magic mushrooms across the Tropical and Sub-tropical regions of the world. They are often found in paddocks that have not been intensively farmed and fertilized. While there are at least 30 types of psilocybin mushrooms in Australia, it is important to note that their cultivation, possession, and ingestion is strictly prohibited and can result in a fine or jail time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality | Possession of Psilocybe cubensis is illegal in Australia |
| Common Names | Cubes, Gold Tops |
| Appearance | Gills start out creamy white, then become grey before turning dark grey or black |
| Seasonality | Fruit in the warmer months after rain |
| Habitat | Paddocks that have not been intensively farmed or fertilized |
| Lookalikes | Agaricus ‘gold umbo’, agrocybe preacox, and other mushrooms found in dung |
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What You'll Learn
Illegal to possess in Australia
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as "magic mushrooms", are illegal to possess in Australia. Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin, a hallucinogenic compound that is a natural psychedelic. Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule 9 substance, which is prohibited according to the Commonwealth Poisons Standard. Possession of psilocybin can carry penalties of up to 2 years imprisonment or fines ranging from $2,000 to $5,500. In Western Australia, psilocybin is considered a 'prohibited drug' under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1981 (WA), with similar penalties for possession or use.
While magic mushrooms themselves are illegal to possess, it is important to note that magic mushroom spores and grow kits are legal in Australia because they do not contain psilocybin. However, cultivating magic mushrooms from spores is illegal and can result in significant penalties, including up to 25 years in prison in some states. Additionally, selling or supplying psilocybin is also illegal and can result in a maximum penalty of 4 years imprisonment and/or a $181,000 fine.
The Australian government has recently shown interest in the medicinal use of psychedelics, investing $15 million in research. This has led to the legalization of psilocybin for medical use in the treatment of PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. However, recreational use of psilocybin remains illegal in Australia, and fines for possession start at $2,000.
It is worth noting that magic mushrooms can often resemble poisonous varieties, making it dangerous to consume them without proper identification. The most common magic mushrooms in Australia include golden tops, blue meanies, and liberty caps. Golden tops, also known as cubes or gold tops, are more commonly found in paddocks that have not been intensively farmed and fertilized. They are known to fruit in the warmer months after rain.
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Folkloric status in NSW
Psilocybe cubensis, also known as "gold tops", are one of the most widespread and common magic mushrooms across the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are found in paddocks that have not been intensively farmed and fertilised. The gills of the mushroom start out creamy white, then become grey before turning dark grey or black. They fruit in the warmer months after rain.
In NSW, gold tops have been part of the 'folk lore' of the north coast region. Growing up in this region, a writer on Kingfisher Mushrooms recounts how hunting for these mushrooms was almost a rite of passage during their childhood.
However, it is important to note that the cultivation, manufacture, possession, use, and supply of psilocybin is illegal throughout Australia. This has prevented the study of their biodiversity, chemistry, ethnobotany, and clinical applications.
While some sources mention that psilocybin-containing mushrooms can be encountered when looking for edible species, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of the legal implications associated with the possession and consumption of these mushrooms.
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Found in unfertilized paddocks
Unfertilized paddocks can be an ideal habitat for psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. These fungi thrive in nutrient-rich environments, and unfertilized fields often provide an abundance of organic matter for them to feed on. To find psilocybe cubensis in unfertilized paddocks, there are a few key things to look out for.
The first is the presence of manure. Psilocybe cubensis is known to favour areas where cattle or other livestock have been grazing. The manure provides an excellent food source for the mushrooms, and it is not uncommon to find them growing directly from the dung of these animals. Look for areas where manure has been deposited and spread across the paddock. This can often indicate that the field is unfertilized, as the manure provides a natural source of nutrients for the grass.
Another indicator is the presence of other fungi. Psilocybe cubensis often grows alongside other mushroom species, so if you spot a variety of mushrooms in an unfertilized paddock, it may be worth inspecting the area further. Examine the base of the mushrooms to check for signs of psilocybe cubensis. The mushrooms often have a distinctive appearance, with a slimy, pale cap and a slender stem.
The weather conditions are also important. Psilocybe cubensis typically fruits in warm, humid weather, so look out for them during late spring and throughout summer. They require moisture to grow, so check the paddock after rainfall or in the early morning when there's likely more moisture in the air.
When searching, take your time and thoroughly examine the paddock. Psilocybe cubensis can sometimes grow in clusters, but they can also be solitary. They may be found at any stage of development, from tiny "pins" emerging from the ground to mature mushrooms with fully opened caps. Always be respectful of private property and only collect where permitted.
Additionally, it's crucial to accurately identify mushrooms before consumption, as misidentification can lead to serious health risks. Ensure you're confident in your ability to distinguish psilocybe cubensis from similar-looking mushrooms, some of which may be poisonous. Consulting a reliable field guide or seeking advice from an expert mycologist can help ensure accurate identification.
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Similar species include Blue Meanies
Blue Meanies are characterised by their bluish-purple bruising on the stems and caps when handled or damaged. This is where their name originates. This bruising is caused by the presence of psilocin and psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compounds found in these mushrooms.
They typically have caramel to dark brown caps with a convex shape that flattens out as the mushroom matures. The caps can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The gills under the caps are initially a pale purple colour, turning darker as the spores mature. The spores themselves are a deep purple-brown colour when viewed under a microscope.
The stems of Blue Meanies are long and slender, usually lighter in colour than the caps, and may have a slight bluish tint. They can grow up to 15 cm in length and are quite fragile, often bending or breaking easily. The mycelium, or root-like structure of the mushroom, is white and thread-like, spreading through the substrate to form new mushrooms.
Blue Meanies are often sought after for their intense psychedelic effects, which can include visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time, and spiritual or philosophical insights. However, it is important to note that consuming wild mushrooms, especially without proper identification, can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
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Consumption carries health risks
Psilocybe cubensis, also known as magic mushrooms, are naturally occurring and are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. They are psychedelic drugs, which means they can affect all the senses, altering a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions. The key ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocybin, which is converted in the body to psilocin, the chemical with psychoactive properties.
Magic mushrooms can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be prepared with food items to mask their bitter taste, or covered in chocolate. The effects usually begin within 30 minutes when eaten, or within 5–10 minutes when taken as a soup or tea, and can last approximately four to six hours.
Factors such as mental health, setting, quantity, and expectations may affect the experience someone has after consuming psilocybin. People with pre-existing mental health conditions may be at an elevated risk of experiencing side effects such as extreme anxiety or short-term psychosis. Additionally, individuals with cardiac diseases may experience short-term effects such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, which could be harmful.
There is also a risk of accidental poisoning from mistaking poisonous mushrooms for psilocybin mushrooms. Poisonous mushrooms can cause severe gastrointestinal illness and, in some cases, even death. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning may include muscle spasms, confusion, delirium, nausea, and vomiting. In the case of these symptoms, it is advised to seek immediate medical attention.
It is important to note that the production, sale, and possession of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in many places, including Australia and Canada. While there is ongoing research into the potential therapeutic uses of psilocybin, particularly in treating mental health disorders, there are currently no approved therapeutic products containing psilocybin in Canada or elsewhere.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybe cubensis, or "magic mushrooms", are found in Tropical and Sub-tropical regions of Australia. They fruit in the warmer months after rain and are more commonly found in paddocks that have not been intensively farmed and fertilized. However, it is important to note that their cultivation, possession, and ingestion are illegal in Australia and can result in a fine or jail time.
Psilocybe cubensis, also known as "cubes" or "gold tops", have gills that start out creamy white, then turn grey, and finally become dark grey or black.
Yes, there are a few lookalikes to be aware of, including Agaricus ‘gold umbo’, agrocybe preacox, and Panaeolus cyanescens (the "blue meanie"). These mushrooms have similar characteristics but are generally more slender and lack a ring on the stem.
