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Golden Teacher is a popular strain of Psilocybe cubensis, a species of psychedelic mushroom. Known for its ease of cultivation and reliable effects, it's a favorite among both novice and experienced mycologists and psychonauts. The name 'Golden Teacher' refers to the mushroom's golden-colored caps and its reputation for providing insightful and profound experiences.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 2-8 cm in diameter, starting convex and flattening with age. It is golden brown in color, sometimes with a lighter margin. The surface is smooth and may be slightly sticky when moist.
- Gills
- The gills are adnate to adnexed, starting grayish and turning dark purple-brown as the spores mature.
- Stem
- The stem is 5-15 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm thick, whitish to yellowish, and hollow. It bruises blue where handled and has a ring that may disappear with age.
- Flesh
- Whitish and bruises blue when handled.
- Fruiting body
- Medium to large in size, with a distinctive golden cap.
- Habitat
- Found in subtropical climates, growing on dung and enriched soils.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, may be slightly sticky when moist
- Growth Form: Solitary to clustered
- Spore Print: Dark purple-brown
- Body color: Golden brown cap, whitish stem
- Odor: Farinaceous (like flour)
- Flesh bruises: Blue
- Height: 5-15 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-8 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
Moderate ToxicityWhile Psilocybe cubensis is not lethal, it contains psilocybin and psilocin, which are Schedule I controlled substances. Ingestion can cause altered perception, hallucinations, and anxiety. Overconsumption can lead to panic attacks and psychosis in susceptible individuals.
Quick Check
- Odor: Farinaceous
- Fruiting: Subtropical regions, dung, grassy areas
- Substrate: Dung, enriched soils
Where to Find
Manure
Grows on dung and in grassy areas.
Subtropical Regions
Prefers subtropical climates.
Finding Tips
Check Humid Areas
Look for areas with high humidity and decaying organic matter.
Search Livestock Areas
Search in pastures and fields where livestock graze.
Similar Species
Psilocybe mexicana
Psilocybe
Also known as: None
Psilocybe caerulescens
Psilocybe
Also known as: None
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Strophariaceae
- Genus
- Psilocybe
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: -20°C
- Freezing duration: Up to 12 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: Up to 1 week
How to Clean
Gently brush off any substrate. A soft, damp cloth can be used to wipe the caps and stems. Ensure they are thoroughly dried before storage to prevent mold.
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