Wild Species Bluing ✓ Potency: ★★★★★

Psilocybe semilanceata

Common name: Liberty Cap

Field Identification

CapConical to bell-shaped; 5–25mm wide; olive-brown to tan, drying paler; prominent pointed umbo (nipple) at center; strongly hygrophanous
GillsAdnate to adnexed; initially pale, darkening to purple-brown with spore maturity
StemLong and slender (4–10cm); wavy; pale, often with blue-green tinting at base
Spore PrintDark purple-brown
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, pastures; often with fescue grass; cool, wet climates
DistributionNorthern Europe (UK, Ireland, Scandinavia), Pacific Northwest (US/Canada), New Zealand
SeasonAutumn (September–November in Northern Europe)

Key Identification Feature

The pointed umbo (nipple) on an otherwise bell-shaped cap is the most reliable field identifier. The cap surface is sticky/gelatinous when moist — the pellicle peels easily.

⚠ Dangerous Lookalikes

Psilocybe strictipes (less common, lacks umbo), Conocybe spp. (brown gills, no blue staining), Galerina marginata (DEADLY — rusty-brown spore print, often has ring; grows on wood)

Notes

One of the most potent Psilocybe species by weight. Analysis shows 0.98% psilocybin, 0.02% psilocin by dry weight — substantially higher than cubensis. Historically used in witchcraft trials; subject of widespread foraging in UK.

Legal Status Warning Psilocybin-containing mushrooms are controlled substances in most jurisdictions. This guide is for educational purposes only. Wild foraging for psilocybin mushrooms may be illegal in your location. Never consume wild mushrooms without positive identification from an expert mycologist — misidentification can be fatal.

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