General information:Common names: Laughing GymClass: Agaricomycetes Familly: Hymenogastraceae Genus: Gymnopilus Order: Agaricales Phylum: Basidiomycota Usable: Not edible, Hallucinogenic |
Gymnopilus junonius physical characteristics
Gymnopilus junonius, commonly known as the Laughing Gym or Laughing Cap, is a species of mushroom belonging to the family Hymenogastraceae.
Cap: The cap of Gymnopilus junonius is initially convex or bell-shaped, but with age, it flattens out and often develops a broad central bump. The cap diameter can range from 2 to 8 centimeters (0.8 to 3.1 inches). It has a smooth or slightly wrinkled surface and a color that can vary from reddish-brown to orange-brown.
Gills: The gills of this mushroom are closely spaced and adnate, which means they are attached to and run down the stem. When young, the gills have a pale yellow color, which later turns rusty brown with maturity.
Stem: The stem is typically cylindrical or slightly tapering towards the base. It can grow up to 12 centimeters (4.7 inches) tall and 0.4 centimeters (0.16 inches) thick. The color of the stem is similar to or slightly lighter than the cap, often with a fibrous texture.
Spore Print: The spore print of Gymnopilus junonius is rusty brown.
Flesh: The flesh of this mushroom is pale yellowish to orange and can sometimes show a bluish reaction when damaged.
Other characteristics: Gymnopilus junonius is known for its bitter taste and a distinctive smell, often described as reminiscent of radish or oil. It typically grows in clusters on decaying wood, such as logs or stumps, especially of hardwood trees.
Habitat: Gymnopilus junonius is commonly found in North America and Europe. It is known to grow on decaying hardwoods, especially oak, beech, and maple trees. Look for it in forested areas, often near stumps, logs, or fallen branches.
Season: This mushroom species typically fruits during the late summer and fall, although it can be found at other times of the year depending on the region and climate.
Spore Characteristics: The spores of Gymnopilus junonius are ellipsoid or spindle-shaped, measuring around 8-11 by 4-5 micrometers. They have a rusty brown color.
Chemical Compounds: Gymnopilus junonius contains various bioactive compounds, including psilocybin and psilocin, which are known for their hallucinogenic properties. However, the concentrations of these compounds can vary, and it is important to note that possession and consumption of mushrooms containing psilocybin or psilocin may be illegal in many countries.
Effects: If ingested, Gymnopilus junonius can cause psychoactive effects due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. These effects can include hallucinations, altered perception, euphoria, and changes in mood and cognition. It is important to exercise caution and consider the legal and health implications before consuming any wild mushrooms.
Gymnopilus junonius edibility
Gymnopilus junonius, also known as the Laughing Gym, is generally considered to be inedible or of unknown edibility. While it is not considered to be toxic or poisonous, it is known to have a very bitter taste and is not commonly consumed for culinary purposes.
Additionally, Gymnopilus junonius contains psychoactive compounds such as psilocybin and psilocin, which can cause hallucinogenic effects when ingested. It is important to note that the consumption of wild mushrooms containing these compounds may be illegal in many countries.
Due to its bitter taste and potential for psychoactive effects, it is recommended to avoid consuming Gymnopilus junonius unless you have expert knowledge and experience in mushroom identification and mycology. It is always best to err on the side of caution and seek advice from a qualified mycologist or mushroom expert before considering the edibility or consumption of any wild mushroom.
Gymnopilus junonius indentification
Cap: The cap of Gymnopilus junonius is initially convex or bell-shaped, but with age, it flattens out and often develops a broad central bump. It can have a diameter ranging from 2 to 8 centimeters (0.8 to 3.1 inches). The cap’s color can vary from reddish-brown to orange-brown. The surface is typically smooth or slightly wrinkled.
Gills: The gills are closely spaced and adnate, which means they are attached to and run down the stem. When young, the gills have a pale yellow color, but they mature to a rusty brown color.
Stem: The stem is usually cylindrical or slightly tapering towards the base. It can grow up to 12 centimeters (4.7 inches) tall and 0.4 centimeters (0.16 inches) thick. The color of the stem is similar to or slightly lighter than the cap. The texture can be fibrous.
Spore Print: The spore print of Gymnopilus junonius is rusty brown.
Flesh: The flesh of this mushroom is pale yellowish to orange and may exhibit a bluish reaction when damaged.
Smell and Taste: Gymnopilus junonius is known for its distinctive smell, often described as resembling radish or oil. The taste is typically bitter.
Habitat and Distribution: Gymnopilus junonius can be found growing in clusters on decaying hardwoods, particularly oak, beech, and maple trees. It is known to occur in North America and Europe.
Gymnopilus junonius habitat and frequency
Gymnopilus junonius, commonly known as the Laughing Gym or Laughing Cap, has a specific habitat and frequency of occurrence.
Habitat: Gymnopilus junonius is typically found growing on decaying hardwoods, particularly oak, beech, and maple trees. It has a preference for forested areas and can often be found on stumps, logs, or fallen branches. It thrives in areas with decaying organic matter.
Frequency: Gymnopilus junonius is considered to be a moderately common species. It is widespread in North America and Europe, and can be found in various regions within these continents. It typically fruits during the late summer and fall, although its occurrence can vary depending on specific geographic locations and climatic conditions.
It’s important to note that the frequency of occurrence can vary from year to year and from region to region. The availability of suitable habitat and environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and nutrient availability can influence the presence and abundance of Gymnopilus junonius in a given area.
Gymnopilus junonius psychoactive effects
Gymnopilus junonius, commonly known as the Laughing Gym or Laughing Cap, is known to contain psychoactive compounds, including psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds are classified as hallucinogens and can produce altered perception, mood changes, and hallucinations when ingested.
The psychoactive effects of Gymnopilus junonius are similar to those of other mushrooms containing psilocybin. They can include:
- Visual and sensory distortions: Users may experience enhanced colors, patterns, and visual hallucinations. Sensory perceptions may be heightened or altered.
- Altered perception of time and space: Time can feel distorted, and a sense of connection to the environment or others may be heightened. Users may experience a distorted sense of reality.
- Euphoria and mood changes: Gymnopilus junonius can induce feelings of happiness, euphoria, and increased sociability. Users may feel more open and connected to others.
- Spiritual and introspective experiences: Some individuals report having profound or introspective experiences while under the influence of Gymnopilus junonius. They may gain new insights or have a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
It’s important to note that the effects can vary depending on the individual, dosage, set (mindset) and setting (environment), as well as the specific concentration of psychoactive compounds in the mushrooms. The intensity and duration of the effects can also vary.
It is crucial to approach the consumption of any psychoactive substances, including Gymnopilus junonius, with caution and respect. Psychedelic experiences can be intense and unpredictable, and they may not be suitable for everyone. Moreover, the possession, cultivation, and consumption of mushrooms containing psilocybin may be illegal in many countries.
Gymnopilus junonius other names
Gymnopilus junonius, commonly known as the Laughing Gym or Laughing Cap, does not have widely recognized alternative names. However, sometimes it may be referred to simply as a Gymnopilus species or by its scientific name. It’s worth noting that regional or local names for mushrooms can vary, so there may be regional variations or colloquial names used for Gymnopilus junonius in certain areas.
Names in other languages
In other languages:
Spanish: Gímnopilo de Juno or Gorro Riente
French: Gymnopile de Junon or Gymnopile riant
Italian: Gymnopilus di Juno or Cappello Ridente
German: Juno-Nacktstiel or Lachender Gymnopilus
Portuguese: Gymnopilus de Juno or Chapéu Ridente
Dutch: Gymnopilus van Juno or Lachende Gymnopilus