Shiny Mottlegill (Panaeolus semiovatus var. semiovatus)

Shiny Mottlegill

Panaeolus semiovatus var. semiovatus

Its glossy caps hold psychoactive secrets, a small but potent saprobe. Saprobic fungus; common name: shiny mottlegill.

Low light
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires complete shade; grows in dark, nutrient-rich organic substrates with no direct sunlight exposure
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Watering Maintain consistently moist substrate; avoid waterlogging to prevent mycelium rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid temperate conditions; avoid temperatures below 10°C or above 30°C to prevent mycelium die-off
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Characteristics

  • Cap: Smooth, convex to bell-shaped, pale tan to whitish, glossy when moist
  • Gills: Dark gray to black, developing a mottled appearance as spores mature
  • Stipe: Slender, hollow, pale with a transient white ring that often fades with age
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep substrate evenly moist; mist daily to maintain humidity

Fertilization

No additional fertilization needed; feeds on decaying organic matter. Ensure substrate is fully decomposed to provide necessary nutrients for fruiting body development

Composted manure tea:Dilute fully composted manure tea 1:20 with water to moisten substrate; avoid raw manure to prevent pathogen growth
Pruning
  • Remove spent fruiting bodies to control spore spread and reduce pest attraction
  • Clear surrounding non-decomposing debris to maintain a clean growing environment
  • Avoid disturbing the underlying mycelium network during active fruiting periods
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Not explicitly listed, but ingestion may cause tremors, disorientation, and vomiting

Humans: Contains psilocybin, a psychoactive compound; ingestion causes hallucinations, anxiety, and physical distress

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Reported historical use in psychoactive rituals (limited verified documentation)