Conocybe
Conocybe Fayod
Conocybe is a large genus of small, fragile mushrooms commonly found in lawns, gardens, and disturbed soils worldwide. The name comes from the Greek "konos" (cone) and "kube" (head), describing the characteristic conical cap shape.
Overview
Conocybe is a large genus of small, fragile mushrooms commonly found in lawns, gardens, and disturbed soils worldwide. The name comes from the Greek "konos" (cone) and "kube" (head), describing the characteristic conical cap shape.
Only a handful of the approximately 200 Conocybe species contain psilocybin, and these are generally low in potency compared to Psilocybe or Panaeolus. However, Conocybe siligineoides has been used traditionally in Mexico alongside Psilocybe species in ceremonial contexts.
Important Warning: The Conocybe genus includes several dangerously toxic species, including Conocybe filaris, which contains the same deadly amatoxins found in death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides). This makes Conocybe one of the riskiest genera for foragers—the potential reward (low-potency psilocybin) is far outweighed by the risk of fatal poisoning from misidentification.
For this reason, Conocybe species are rarely sought by experienced foragers and are never recommended for beginners. The genus is included here for completeness and educational purposes, not as an endorsement of foraging these mushrooms.
Potency Distribution
Potency varies significantly between species within this genus and even between individual specimens. Environmental factors, growing conditions, and genetics all influence psilocybin content. The range shown represents typical values reported in scientific literature.
Where It Grows
North America
Various species found in lawns and gardens throughout temperate regions. C. cyanopus occasionally reported.
Europe
C. kuehneriana and other psilocybin species found in disturbed soils and lawns.
Mexico
C. siligineoides has traditional use among indigenous peoples, though less common than Psilocybe species.
Habitat: Lawns, gardens, wood debris
Identification Guide
Key Identifying Features
- Very small, fragile mushrooms (caps typically under 2cm)
- Conical to bell-shaped caps
- Rust-brown to cinnamon spore print
- Extremely thin, fragile stems
Cap
Caps are small (0.5-2cm), conical to bell-shaped, and typically rust-brown to ochre in color. Surface is smooth and often slightly sticky. Caps are hygrophanous, fading as they dry.
Gills
Gills are attached to the stem and colored cinnamon-brown to rust, matching the spore color. Gills are relatively sparse and fragile.
Stem
Stems are extremely thin (1-3mm) and fragile, often breaking at the slightest touch. Color is similar to cap or slightly paler. Some species have a slight ring zone.
Spore Print
Rust-brown to cinnamon—this distinguishes Conocybe from both Psilocybe (purple-black) and Panaeolus (jet black).
Bruising Reaction
Psilocybin-containing species may show slight blue-green staining, particularly at the stem base (hence 'cyanopus' = blue foot). However, bruising is often subtle or absent.
Potential Lookalikes
- Conocybe filaris (DEADLY) - contains amatoxins, looks very similar to psilocybin species
- Galerina species (DEADLY) - similar size and habitat, contains amatoxins
- Pholiotina species - very similar, some toxic
- Agrocybe species - similar habitat, different spore color
Misidentification Warning
EXTREME CAUTION REQUIRED: Conocybe filaris and related species contain deadly amatoxins that cause liver failure. These toxic species are virtually indistinguishable from psilocybin-containing Conocybe without microscopic examination. Even experts struggle with identification in this genus. We strongly advise against foraging Conocybe species under any circumstances. The risk of fatal poisoning far outweighs any potential benefit.
Legal Context
Psilocybin-containing Conocybe species are subject to the same legal restrictions as other psilocybin mushrooms. However, given the extreme danger of misidentification and the low potency of active species, there is essentially no legitimate reason to seek out Conocybe for psilocybin. Legal psilocybin access through Oregon's program or international retreats uses well-characterized Psilocybe cubensis, not obscure and dangerous genera like Conocybe.
View Full Legal Status GuideQuick Facts
- Latin Name
- Conocybe Fayod
- Species Count
- 8+ species
- Potency Range
- 0.1% – 0.5%
- Habitat
- Lawns, gardens, wood debris
- Common Strains
- CyanopusKuehnerianaSiligineoides
Foraging Safety Disclaimer
Wild mushroom foraging carries significant risks, including the possibility of misidentification leading to serious illness or death. Many psilocybin-containing species have toxic lookalikes. Never consume any wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification, verified by an expert mycologist. This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute advice to forage, cultivate, or consume any mushrooms. Always check local laws regarding psilocybin mushrooms in your jurisdiction.