Clearing Up the Confusion: Blue Meanies Mushroom Strain

When it comes to Blue Meanies, there’s a lot of confusion surrounding the name, as it refers to two different types of mushrooms—Psilocybe cubensis and Panaeolus cyanescens. However, in this article, we’ll focus on the Psilocybe cubensis version, a strain renowned for its distinctive blue bruising and potent effects.

Understanding Blue Meanies (Psilocybe cubensis)

The Psilocybe cubensis Blue Meanies are a unique strain of magic mushrooms that gain their name due to their tendency to turn blue upon handling. This color change is the result of oxidation of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound within the mushrooms. The bruising, which is easily noticeable, occurs because of the high concentration of psilocybin present in the mushrooms. While this oxidation is a characteristic of all psilocybin mushrooms, the Blue Meanies stand out due to their light pigmentation and the resulting vivid blue stains.

Origin and Cultivation of Blue Meanies (Psilocybe cubensis)

Believed to have originated in Australia, the Blue Meanies strain was initially collected and isolated by spore vendors to create the independent strain we know today. It is a strain of Psilocybe cubensis, which is one of the most well-known species of magic mushrooms. Over time, this strain has become popular for its resilience, reliable potency, and ease of cultivation.

• Cultivation: Blue Meanies mushrooms are considered relatively beginner-friendly. They grow well on substrates such as rye grain or brown rice flour, and have a fast colonization rate, making them an excellent choice for those new to mushroom cultivation. Despite their robust growing properties, the strain still requires attention to detail, such as proper humidity and temperature control, for optimal growth.

• Size and Appearance: Blue Meanies are generally larger and denser than other Psilocybe cubensis varieties, contributing to their higher psilocybin content. The mushrooms are typically a golden or light brown color with a distinct blue hue at the base, which becomes more pronounced with handling.

The Name Confusion: Blue Meanies or Panaeolus cyanescens?

The name “Blue Meanies” can also refer to Panaeolus cyanescens, an entirely different species of magic mushroom. This has led to much confusion in the mushroom community, as both species are commonly referred to by the same name.

• Psilocybe cubensis Blue Meanies: As previously mentioned, this version is larger, denser, and more potent, with higher psilocybin concentrations.
• Panaeolus cyanescens: This species, often called “Blue Meanies” as well, has a taller, thinner stem and smaller caps compared to the Psilocybe variety. It is also potent but not as much as the Psilocybe cubensis variant.

The origin of this naming confusion likely stems from a mix-up by a spore vendor, who mistakenly marketed Psilocybe cubensis spores as “Blue Meanies” when they were intended to be Panaeolus cyanescens spores. Additionally, some believe that the name was inspired by the Blue Meanies from the 1968 animated Beatles movie Yellow Submarine, reflecting the era’s psychedelic culture.

Psilocybin Content and Potency of Blue Meanies

The potency of Blue Meanies mushrooms is moderate to strong, with an average psilocybin content ranging between 0.75% and 1% by weight. This is relatively average compared to other Psilocybe cubensis strains. However, trip reports from users suggest that the experience with Blue Meanies is slightly above average, confirming their strong and intense effects.

For a more precise analysis, Psilocybin Cup results indicate that Blue Meanie mushrooms average 0.67% psilocybin and 0.05% psilocin content. The total tryptamine content of the mushrooms comes in at about 0.75%, with the strongest samples measuring up to 0.87%.

Genetic Relatives of Blue Meanies

While the exact genetic lineage of Blue Meanies is not entirely clear, it is believed to be related to other strains from the Australian and Tasmanian regions. These strains share similar growth characteristics but differ in their visual appearance and potency.

• Australian Strain: Often referred to as “Aussies” or “gold tops”, these mushrooms are darker and have a more golden hue compared to Blue Meanies.
• Tasmanian Strain: Known for producing larger fruiting bodies, the Tasmanian strain has similar potency to Blue Meanies but tends to be less dense.

Where to Buy Blue Meanies Mushroom Spores

Due to the strain’s popularity, Blue Meanies spores are widely available from reputable vendors. Below are some recommended suppliers based on region:

• United States: MYYCO and Spores 101 are well-known retailers of Blue Meanies spores, with High Desert Spores sometimes offering them as well.
• Canada: 28 Grams Lab is one of the top choices for Blue Meanies spores, but Spores 101 and Mushroom Prints are also solid options.
• Europe: The Magic Mushrooms Shop and Shiny Spores are excellent places to purchase Blue Meanies spores in Europe.

How to Grow Blue Meanies Mushrooms

Growing Blue Meanies is relatively simple, even for novice cultivators. The strain is known for its quick colonization and ability to produce large, potent fruits. Though resistant to mold and disease, Blue Meanies thrive best when properly cared for. A few key tips for cultivation include:

• Substrates: Rye grain and brown rice flour are recommended substrates for growing Blue Meanies.
• Colonization: The strain has a fast colonization rate, and while it’s resistant to some common cultivation issues, providing optimal conditions will ensure better yields.
• Post-Harvest Care: If your mycelium becomes stagnant or fails to fruit properly, techniques like ice baths can help stimulate growth by shocking the mycelium.

For more information on how to grow Blue Meanies and other magic mushrooms, refer to in-depth guides available from trusted cultivation sources.

Conclusion: The Unique Appeal of Blue Meanies Mushrooms

The Blue Meanies strain, whether you're talking about the Psilocybe cubensis or Panaeolus cyanescens version, is an iconic part of the magic mushroom world. Its high potency, distinctive bruising, and easy cultivation make it a popular choice for those looking to experience a psychedelic journey or cultivate their own mushrooms.

When purchasing or growing Blue Meanies, it’s crucial to know exactly which strain you’re dealing with to ensure you're prepared for the experience it offers. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable strain or an experienced user seeking an intense trip, Blue Meanies offer something for everyone in the world of psychedelics.