Oklahoma's Native Magic Mushroom Strain "Oklahoma Wild"
The Original “Oklahoma Wild” Psilocybe cubensis photo taken on 06/09/2022 by Oklahoma Fungi
The thrill of foraging mushrooms lies in the adventure, the learning, and the unexpected surprises nature offers. My most memorable experience in mushroom foraging happened on June 9th, 2022, in Choctaw County, Oklahoma. This discovery led to the identification of a unique variety of Psilocybe cubensis, which I named “Oklahoma Wild.” Here's the full story of how it unfolded, what it meant to me personally and scientifically, and why it’s an exciting addition to Oklahoma’s mycological landscape.
Setting the Scene
On that sunny, moderately warm, and slightly humid day, I drove three hours from Oklahoma City to meet a family on their homestead in Choctaw County. Recent rains had drenched the area, creating perfect conditions for mushrooms to flourish. The homestead was teeming with life—not just from the livestock but from the numerous mushroom species sprouting across the property. Among these were Agrocybe, Conocybe, Coprinopsis, Panaeolus, and, notably, Psilocybe.
The two main locations where mushrooms were growing were inside a horse stable under a massive oak tree and within two large porcelain planters filled with manure compost from the farm animals. The stable’s muddy ground, softened by rain and layered with grass hay, was a hotspot for various fungi. The hay was crucial in retaining moisture and providing a conducive environment for mushroom fruiting bodies to emerge.
The Discovery
I wasn’t on a casual mushroom hunt that day. A concerned landowner had posted on Facebook about unidentified mushrooms growing on her property. Her primary concern was her grandchildren’s safety, fearing they might accidentally consume a poisonous species. After receiving detailed photos and information about the mushrooms, I knew I had to investigate further.
Upon arriving at the homestead, it didn’t take long for my attention to be captured by a group of stunning mushrooms with golden caps. These mushrooms exhibited blue bruising on the mycelium and at the base of their stipes. Two large, mature specimens were already releasing spores, leaving purple deposits that confirmed their identity as Psilocybe cubensis. Another specimen, growing in a sunnier spot, had faded to white, making it more challenging to identify visually. However, spore analysis under a microscope later confirmed it was also a Psilocybe cubensis mushroom.
The most pristine specimen I found measured approximately 8 cm from the bottom of the stipe to the top of the cap. Its cap, about 3.8 cm wide, displayed an orange-brown hue that faded to tan-yellow as it matured. The white stem featured a ring (annulus), and the purple spore print was unmistakable. The discovery was thrilling and surreal, as it marked my first time encountering this species in the wild.
Young Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms just starting to develop in the manure-based substrate
Reaction and Documentation
My initial reaction was a mix of disbelief and excitement. The sight of the blue bruising and purple spore deposits was a surreal moment that I couldn’t wait to document. Armed with my iPhone, I took numerous photos and videos to capture the mushrooms in their natural habitat. Given the legalities surrounding this species, I refrained from harvesting the mushrooms. Instead, I used sterile Q-tips to collect spore samples, which I later studied under a microscope to confirm the identification.
The Context
Growing up in Oklahoma City, I had heard whispers of “magic mushrooms” in cow pastures but had never encountered anyone with actual foraging experience. Online, I’d seen Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms from Gulf Coast states like Texas and Florida, but Oklahoma was absent from such narratives. This discovery not only filled that gap but also sparked new excitement about the potential for finding similar species within the state.
A sun-bleached Psilocybe cubensis mushroom growing between two pieces of manure
Naming and Sharing the Genetics
Naming the variety “Oklahoma Wild” felt fitting, as it tied the mushroom’s unique genetics to its place of discovery. Naming new varieties with geographic indicators is common in mycology and helps highlight the diversity of a species. This find also allowed me to collaborate with “Inoculate The World,” a reputable supplier of mushroom genetics. Together, we distributed the “Oklahoma Wild” genetics to researchers across the globe, amplifying the importance of this discovery.
Scientific and Personal Impact
From a scientific standpoint, documenting “Oklahoma Wild” expanded the known distribution of Psilocybe cubensis and underscored the importance of including such species in local mushroom guides. These guides help beginner foragers differentiate between edible, psychoactive, and poisonous mushrooms, ensuring safety and education.
On a personal level, this discovery solidified my passion for mycology and my mission to promote Oklahoma as a viable destination for mushroom enthusiasts. It also elevated Oklahoma Fungi’s reputation as a trusted source for mushroom education and cultivation supplies.
Two large, mature Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms with blue bruising visible towards the bottom
Challenges and Reflections
Despite the excitement, there were challenges. My YouTube video documenting the discovery garnered 30,000 views before being removed for “violating community guidelines.” However, the photos shared on my Instagram page, @OklahomaFungi, received positive feedback and sparked conversations within the mushroom community.
This discovery also inspired me to research other species found in neighboring states, hoping to uncover more undocumented fungi in Oklahoma. While I haven’t found another psychoactive species since, my foraging adventures have led to many other edible discoveries, further enriching my understanding of Oklahoma’s biodiversity.
Encouraging Exploration
One of my main takeaways from this experience is the importance of outdoor exploration and citizen science. Platforms like iNaturalist.org are invaluable for making public observations and contributing to the collective knowledge of local ecosystems. For those inspired by this story, I encourage you to get outside, explore, and document your findings.
You can purchase Oklahoma Wild Psilocybe cubensis genetics directly from our website
Final Thoughts
The discovery of “Oklahoma Wild” was a pivotal moment in my mycological journey. It reinforced the importance of education, conservation, and collaboration within the mushroom community. For researchers and enthusiasts interested in exploring this unique variety, “Oklahoma Wild” genetics are available for purchase on our website, ready to be shipped directly to your door.
Whether you’re a seasoned forager or a curious beginner, remember that every discovery contributes to our understanding of the natural world. So grab your foraging bag, stay curious, and keep exploring. Who knows? The next groundbreaking find might just be waiting in your backyard…
