Penis Envy Spore Swab

The Penis Envy strain stands out in the world of Psilocybe cubensis for its unique morphology and heightened potency. Characterized by a thick stem and a bulbous cap, it closely resembles its namesake, making it a subject of intrigue among mycology researchers. ​

Product Highlights:

Premium Quality Spore Swab: Each swab is meticulously prepared using sterile medical-grade equipment, ensuring the integrity and purity of the spores. ​

Distinctive Strain Characteristics: Penis Envy mushrooms are renowned for their robust structure and dense composition, offering unique features for detailed microscopic examination. ​

Microscopy Research Focus: This product is strictly for microscopy and research purposes, providing an excellent specimen for both amateur and professional mycologists to observe spore structures and patterns.​

History and Origins:

The origins of the Penis Envy (PE) strain of Psilocybe cubensis are shrouded in mystery, controversy, and legendary figures in the mycology world. Rich Gee is credited as the first person to isolate and publicly distribute PE in the late 1970s. His work, along with that of Jule Stevens, appeared in the 1977 book How to Grow & Identify Psilocybin Mushrooms, which referenced a strain labeled “#1 Mutation – Strongest.” Gee also wrote Cubensis Aquarium Garden, a nearly impossible-to-find book, the cover of which appears to feature an early PE grow. During this time, Gee competed with Homestead Book Company (HBC), another vendor selling spore grow kits in the Pacific Northwest. In the late 1980s, Gee and HBC collaborated to refine cultivation techniques, leading to the development of filter patch grain bags—still widely used today. HBC’s genetic stock, including PE, was later acquired during their 2016/2017 liquidation, revealing documentation that linked PE’s origins to the Colombian Amazon, aligning with Terence McKenna’s famous 1972 expedition.

The strain’s development and spread remain debated, with some attributing its isolation to Dr. Steven Pollock, a pioneering mycologist who may have derived it from spores labeled “Amazon” received from McKenna. Pollock was murdered in mysterious circumstances, fueling speculation about the strain’s true origins. The name "Penis Envy" was likely coined due to its phallic appearance, with its thick stem and bulbous cap. Over the years, PE was thought lost until mycologist John Allen rediscovered viable samples sold by Gee. Vendors such as Sporeworks later reintroduced the strain to the public, where it gained immense popularity despite being a poor spore producer. PE is now widely recognized for its unique morphology, slow but dense growth, and notably high potency. While its full history may never be known, the strain remains one of the most sought-after and distinctive varieties of Psilocybe cubensis.

Genus: Psilocybe
Species: Cubensis
Variety: Penis Envy
Spores: Dark purplish brown, subellipsoid, 11 by 7 micrometres on 4-spored basidia
Habitat: Bovine, Equine Dung and Enriched Soils
Climate: Subtropical
Cap: 125-275mm in diameter, campanulate, white often with bluish tones bruising bluish green. The caps do not develop normally and suffer diminished spore production.
Stem: 100-200+mm in length, contorted often bulbous near the middle, pure white. Flesh bruising bluish where injured. No persistent annulus but an annular zone can often be distinguished on the stem's surface.

Important Considerations:

While the Penis Envy strain is celebrated for its potency, it's crucial to emphasize that these spore swabs are not intended for cultivation or consumption. They are provided solely for research and educational purposes. Users are expected to adhere to local laws and regulations regarding the possession and use of Psilocybe cubensis spores.​

Why Choose Our Penis Envy Spore Swab?

Sterile Preparation: Utilizing medical-grade swabs, each sample is collected and sealed under stringent sterile conditions to prevent contamination. ​

Expertise and Reliability: Backed by years of experience in mycology, we ensure that our products meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity.​

Educational Value: Ideal for educational institutions, research labs, or individual enthusiasts aiming to expand their understanding of fungal spore morphology.​