Strain Highlight: Psilocybe cubensis 'Blue Meanie'
While the name 'Blue Meanie' is shared by a Panaeolus cyanescens species, this guide will focus on the Psilocybe cubensis strain often called by the same name in the cultivation community. Known for its relatively high potency, distinct blue bruising, and prolific fruiting, Blue Meanie has become a favorite amongst mycologists and psychonauts alike.
History and Origins
Like many other Psilocybe cubensis strains, the precise origins of Blue Meanie are a bit murky. It's assumed to have derived from a robust cubensis variety, as it displays similar physical characteristics and growth patterns. However, the strain has made a name for itself in the mycological and psychedelic communities for its unique traits.
Physical Characteristics
Blue Meanie stands out with its relatively large fruiting bodies. The caps can span anywhere from 25 mm to over 50 mm in diameter, often broader than many other cubensis varieties. Initially, these caps are a deep caramel or chestnut-brown color, becoming paler or even golden as the mushroom matures, often maintaining a darker center.
The stems are thick, sturdy, and often elongated, possessing a whitish to yellowish color. A characteristic feature of the Blue Meanie strain is its dramatic blue bruising, which appears when the mushroom tissue is damaged or handled.
Underneath the cap, the densely spaced gills start as a light grey and turn to a dark purple or nearly black as the mushroom matures and the spores develop. This strain produces a dark purple spore print, common in the Psilocybe cubensis species.
Cultivation
One of the reasons for the Blue Meanie's popularity among cultivators is its aggressive mycelium that colonizes substrate quickly and resists many contaminants. This makes it an excellent choice for novice cultivators or those looking to experiment with different substrates. Blue Meanie thrives in standard grain, manure, straw, or coir-based substrates.
This cubensis strain is also known for its prolific fruiting, often producing large flushes of mushrooms. Additionally, it is relatively adaptable to varying environmental conditions, making it a hardy and resilient choice for home cultivation.
Effects
The Blue Meanie cubensis strain is often touted for its higher-than-average potency. This potency makes it a preferred choice for those seeking a more intense or profound psychedelic experience. As with other Psilocybe cubensis strains, the Blue Meanie induces a range of effects that can include intense visual distortions, enhanced sensory experiences, and a distorted sense of time.
Users often report introspective insights and heightened emotional states, alongside a sense of euphoria and wellbeing. As with all psychedelic experiences, these effects can vary greatly depending on the individual, their mindset, and the setting in which the mushrooms are consumed.
Dosage
While dosage can vary based on individual tolerance and the specific potency of the mushrooms, a general guideline for dried Blue Meanie mushrooms is 1-2.5 grams for beginners, 2.5-5 grams for intermediate users, and 5 grams and above for experienced users. Because of their higher potency, new users should approach this strain with caution, starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it over subsequent experiences.
Final Thoughts
Psilocybe cubensis 'Blue Meanie' holds a special place in the world of mushroom cultivation and exploration due to its distinct characteristics and high potency. It's a favorite among seasoned cultivators and those seeking a profound psychedelic experience alike.
However, please remember that cultivation and possession of Psilocybe cubensis, including the Blue Meanie strain, may be illegal in some jurisdictions
. Make sure to understand your local laws before cultivating or consuming these mushrooms. Safety should always be your utmost priority, and respect for the power of these substances is crucial. Always consider the set (mindset) and setting (environment) when using these powerful tools for self-exploration.