Introduction

When it comes to magic mushrooms, Psilocybe cubensis often takes the spotlight. However, there are numerous species in the Psilocybe genus and other lesser-known genera that contain the psychedelic compound psilocybin.

Pluteus americanus is one such species, and this article will delve into its characteristics, history, potency, habitat, identification, and potential risks.

Pluteus americanus 

Pluteus Americanus is a small parasol mushroom with hallucinogenic properties, although it is rarely used and not extensively studied.

It was previously classified under the name P. salicinis, a similar European species, and the old name can still be found in books and field guides.

Given its peculiar distribution in eastern North America and eastern Russia, there may be a need for further taxonomic division due to potential biochemical and genetic variations that make it psychoactive only at times.

Pluteus Americanus Discovery and Taxonomic Clarification

American mycologist Alexander Smith initially discovered Pluteus americanus in Michigan in 1957. Initially, it was thought to be a distinct variety of the willow shield mushroom (Pluteus salicinius) and was named Pluteus salicinius var. americanus.

However, genetic studies conducted in 2014 by Alfredo Justo and colleagues revealed that it is, in fact, a separate species. As a result, its Latin name was updated to Pluteus americanus, which honors the original varietal name and reflects its prevalence in North America.

Pluteus americanus Effects

Pluteus Americanus is psychoactive due to the presence of psilocybin, the same compound responsible for the psychoactivity of Psilocybe cubensis, the well-known shroom.

In general, the effects are similar to eating any other Psilocybe type mushrooms. 

The human body converts psilocybin into psilocin, which is responsible for the a psychedelic trip which other magic mushrooms produce.

Potency of Pluteus Americanus:

The chemical composition of Pluteus americanus has been studied to a limited extent. The most reliable estimates of alkaloid concentrations come from a 2022 study by Klára Gotvaldová and colleagues, which reported approximately 0.12-0.24% psilocybin content in Pluteus americanus.

The study also revealed the presence of other compounds such as psilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin. Pluteus americanus is estimated to be about one-half to a third as potent as Psilocybe cubensis.

Psilocybe Subaeruginosa Experiences

You can read about peoples personal experiences online. Here are a couple of extracts from Erowid:  

Dosage

The potency of Pluteus Americanus compared to Psilocybe cubensis is not well-established. Since it is not commonly consumed, it is advisable to approach it cautiously, starting with small doses.

It is better to err on the side of micro-dosing rather than taking excessive amounts. It's important to note that the psilocybin content can vary within a species, and individual sensitivity to psilocybin also differs.

If you are interested in finding a dosage that works for you, you can refer to our general magic mushroom dosage guide. Additionally, you may try our magic mushroom dosage calculator, which offers various dosage levels, including microdosing and heroic doses.

Popular methods of consuming Pluteus Americanus include Lemon Tek and Shroom Tea.

Geographical Distribution and Seasonality:

As the name suggests, Pluteus americanus is primarily found in North America and eastern Canada. It is commonly observed in regions around the Appalachian Mountains, north toward the Great Lakes, and has also been spotted in Arizona and California.

Recent genetic studies even suggest its presence in eastern Russia. Pluteus americanus is a wood-loving species and is typically found growing on hardwood trees such as ash, cottonwood, birch, and maple.

The best time to find these mushrooms is between July and October.

Identification and Description

Pluteus americanus has distinct physical characteristics that aid in its identification.

Cap: The cap is small to medium-sized, gray-brown with a moist surface. The center is scaly, while the rest of the surface is smooth. As it ages or dries, the cap becomes paler and ends up pale gray with a dark center. The interior flesh is white and remains unchanged when cut.

Gills: The gills are either not attached or barely attached to the stem. They are white when young, turning pink and then brown-pink. When bruised, they exhibit a bluish discoloration. 

Stem: The stem is very thin, slightly enlarged at the base, and may or may not have fine hairs. It is white when young and becomes brownish, bruising bluish slowly.  Unlike some species, Pluteus americanus does not have a ring around the stem. 

Smell: Some claim that this mushroom has a distinct psilocybin scent, different from related species that lack psychoactive properties.

Taste: There is nothing distinctive in terms of taste for identification purposes.

Spores: The spores are ellipsoid and smooth.

Spore color: The spore color is brownish pink.

Edibility: The mushroom is hallucinogenic.

Habitat: It grows on decaying hardwood and usually fruits in groups.

The mushroom may emit a fragrance reminiscent of the leaves of plants from the Pelargonium genus.

The spore print of Pluteus americanus is pink to pinkish-brown.

Similar Species

Pluteus Americanus belongs to a large group of similar mushrooms, including the edible Deer Mushroom. Its distinguishing characteristic is that it stains blue when bruised, which sets it apart from most others. However, microscopic examination is necessary for precise differentiation from its closest look-alikes.

The closest look-alikes to Pluteus Americanus, besides European P. salicinis, are several other members of the same genus that also exhibit a bluish bruising reaction (though it may take a long time).

These species include P. cyanopus, P. phaeocyanopus, and P. saupei. They all appear identical to the naked eye but can be differentiated under a microscope.

Other species within the genus, such as the American P. exilis and the European P. cervinus (both commonly known as deer mushroom), closely resemble Pluteus Americanus but do not exhibit a bluish bruising reaction.

Pluteus Americanus is also categorized as a Little Brown Mushroom (LBM), a large group of vaguely similar species that includes hallucinogenic, edible, and even potentially lethal mushrooms. So use extreme caution when experimenting with LBMs

Toxicity, Safety, & Side Effects

Psilocybin itself is relatively safe when used with caution. However, it is essential to understand that there are risks associated with its use.

As with all magic mushroom varieties, the experience may be accompanied by nausea, anxiety and discomfort—things that are exacerbated by unpleasant surroundings / poor set and setting.

Common side effects include mild nausea and excessive yawning. Occasionally, more severe issues like severe anxiety can occur or a bad trip.  Rarely, individuals may experience severe reactions.

The hallucinations and altered thought patterns induced by psilocybin, which are the intended effects, can be problematic if someone consumes Pluteus Americanus by mistake, intending to consume one of the deer mushrooms.

Responsible psilocybin users adhere to safety guidelines, such as avoiding rapid dose escalation and never tripping without a sober companion. However, since Pluteus Americanus is not widely used, it is challenging to determine if there are additional substances in the mushrooms that may cause adverse effects. Caution should always be exercised.

Another concern is the possibility of misidentification. While most look-alike mushrooms are either edible or psychoactive, mistakes can still occur, especially for novices or those in a hurry.

It is crucial to meticulously and accurately identify each specimen to avoid confusion with dangerous species like the deadly galerina or toxic amanitas. Taking the time for careful identification is key.

While Pluteus americanus is not associated with wood lover's paralysis, caution should always be exercised when consuming any wild mushrooms. 

Please remember to prioritize your safety and well-being when considering the consumption of any mushroom species, including Pluteus Americanus.

Final Thoughts

As with other magic mushrooms, be cautious and respectful - do your research and prepare accordingly. 

As always, the recommendation is to start with a low dose and make sure you have a proper set and setting.

If you're interested in reading more about other types of magic mushroom, we built this strain library in partnership with some of the top grey market suppliers and mycologists in the country. It’s the result of hundreds of hours of labor, years of experience and the generosity of many many experts in the field. Continuously evolving and 100% free to use.

If you're planning a trip and want some guidance on what the ideal dose is, check out our shroom dosage calculator and this handy guide.