Strain Review: Lizard King

The Lizard King strain is distinguished by its remarkable and somewhat unconventional origin, setting it apart from other strains within this species. What makes it particularly unique is its growth pattern, as it emerges from a substrate that deviates from the norm observed in most psilocybe cubensis strains. Unlike the majority of its counterparts, which predominantly flourish in environments enriched with dung or decomposing leaf matter, the Lizard King strain exhibits a distinctive preference for a substrate that is somewhat unexpected within the context of Psilocybe cubensis growth.

Strain Specifications:

• Potency: Moderate
• Cultivation: Intermediate
• Species: Psilocybe cubensis
• Recommended Substrates: Rye Grain, Manure, BRF (Brown Rice Flour)
• Cost: $$
• Available from: Ralphster’s, Planet Spores

Cultivating Lizard King

Within the realm of mushroom cultivation, the substrate—the material upon which mushrooms grow—is of paramount importance. For most psilocybe cubensis strains, this substrate primarily consists of nutrient-rich materials like dung or decaying leaves. This association is deeply ingrained in the natural habitat and lifecycle of these mushrooms.

However, the Lizard King shroom strain defies this convention by displaying a strong inclination to grow on wood, a substrate that is considerably less typical for this species. While not entirely unheard of in the fungal kingdom, wood-based substrates are notably less common for psilocybe cubensis, making the Lizard King’s choice of growth medium an anomaly that captures the interest of cultivators and enthusiasts alike.

This deviation from the expected substrate preference in psilocybe cubensis strains underscores the intricate and adaptable nature of fungi. It serves as a reminder that even within a closely related species, variations can emerge, leading to novel growth behaviours and patterns. The Lizard King strain’s penchant for wood as a substrate adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the world of psilocybin mushroom cultivation and underscores the diverse and sometimes unpredictable ways in which fungi interact with their environment.

Characteristics of Lizard King

The Lizard King cubensis strain showcases an impressive adaptability when it comes to its growth, displaying a unique versatility in thriving on a range of substrates. Unlike some mushroom strains that may exhibit a more restricted range of preferred growth mediums, the Lizard King strain demonstrates a remarkable ability to colonize and fruit from various substrates. This adaptability is a testament to the genetic diversity within the strain and its capacity to harness nutrients and resources from different sources for its growth.

However, this adaptability comes with a trade-off. It has been observed that the Lizard King strain, despite its versatile nature, appears to be more susceptible to contamination compared to other strains of psilocybe cubensis. Contamination refers to the unwanted presence and growth of competing microorganisms that can compromise the health and growth of the intended mushroom mycelium. This heightened vulnerability to contamination can pose challenges for cultivators seeking to maintain a sterile and controlled environment during the cultivation process.

Despite its susceptibility to contamination, the Lizard King shroom strain offers an enticing reward for those who manage successful cultivation. It has the potential to yield abundant clusters of mushrooms per growth cycle, creating visually impressive flushes that are a sight to behold. The clusters that emerge from this strain can be densely populated with mushrooms, contributing to a visually striking and bountiful harvest.

However, it’s noteworthy that while the Lizard King mushroom strain produces these visually impressive flushes, the individual mushrooms themselves often exhibit lower potency compared to the majority of psilocybe cubensis strains. This discrepancy in potency can make the strain less appealing to mushroom cultivators who prioritize maximizing the concentration of psychoactive compounds in their harvests. In environments where yield efficiency and potency are key factors, other psilocybe cubensis strains may be more favoured due to their higher concentrations of psychoactive compounds in individual mushrooms.

In the realm of mushroom cultivation, various strains cater to different preferences and goals. The Lizard King shroom strain, with its versatile growth and unique characteristics, may find its niche among cultivators who value diversity and are willing to invest extra effort to mitigate contamination risks. However, its relatively lower potency and increased susceptibility to contamination might deter those who prioritize efficiency and high potency in their mushroom cultivation endeavours.

Dosage and Effects

When considering the dosage and effects of the Lizard King strain, it’s noteworthy that a dosage of roughly 2 grams of this particular strain is estimated to elicit a psychoactive experience that is comparable in intensity to consuming approximately 2.5 grams of another strain like Golden Teacher. This equivalence in effects, despite the slight difference in dosage, underscores the unique potency profile of the Lizard King shroom strain. Dosage plays a pivotal role in determining the extent of the psychedelic experience induced by consuming magic mushrooms.

This relationship between dosage and effects provides insight into the potency and psychoactive characteristics of the Lizard King strain. While it may require a slightly higher quantity to achieve effects comparable to another strain, the Lizard King strain still offers a meaningful and engaging psychedelic experience within a manageable dosage range. This information can be particularly useful for individuals who are familiar with the effects of well-known strains like Golden Teacher and are looking to explore the nuances of the Lizard King strain.

Furthermore, this dosage equivalence underscores the complexity of mushroom strains and their individual chemical compositions. Even though the Lizard King strain and the Golden Teacher strain belong to the same species, the specific balance of psychoactive compounds within each strain can result in varying potency levels. The Lizard King strain’s unique response to dosing highlights the intricate interplay of these compounds and their influence on the overall psychedelic experience.

As always, it’s essential to approach mushroom consumption with caution and responsibility, taking into consideration personal experience, mindset, and setting. While dosage equivalences can provide a general guideline, individual reactions can differ, and factors beyond dosage, such as tolerance and the presence of other substances, can impact the intensity and nature of the experience.

Why is it called Lizard King?

The name “Lizard King” for the strain comes from an anonymous mycologist known by that nickname. This mycological explorer ventured into the depths of rural Northern Mexico, a region steeped in natural beauty and biodiversity, where the Lizard King strain would eventually come to light. This strain and several other distinct Mexicana species were unveiled during these journeys of botanical exploration.

The discovery of the Lizard King strain was nothing short of remarkable, as it unveiled a growth pattern that diverged from the expected norms of psilocybe cubensis strains. The distinguishing factor was the substrate upon which it thrived—a substrate that deviated from the traditional habitats of most psilocybe cubensis strains. This strain emerged from the depths of decomposing wood, a substrate that is markedly unconventional in the realm of psilocybe cubensis growth patterns.

In the typical habitats inhabited by psilocybe cubensis strains, such as grasslands, manure-enriched grounds, or damp wetlands, the presence of this particular strain was a surprising revelation. Its choice to flourish amidst decomposing wood adds a layer of intrigue and novelty to its story. Among the myriad of cubensis strains that have been observed, the Lizard King strain’s preference for this uncommon substrate marks it as an exception, inviting speculation about the ecological and genetic factors that might have led to this distinct growth behaviour.

The journey of discovery undertaken by the enigmatic Lizard King further amplifies the allure of this strain. It underscores the exploration of uncharted territories, both in the literal sense of geographic landscapes and in the metaphorical realm of mycological knowledge. This strain serves as a testament to the continuous revelations that the natural world holds, even within the confines of well-studied and documented species. It encourages a broader understanding of the adaptability and potential surprises that nature can bestow upon those who delve into its mysteries with a curious and open perspective.

How potent is Lizard King?

In terms of its potency, the Lizard King strain of psilocybe cubensis distinguishes itself by falling below the average range when compared to its counterparts. Rigorous quantitative testing has revealed that the Lizard King strain contains approximately 0.3–0.5% psilocybin and psilocin, which positions it at the lower end of the spectrum in terms of psychoactive compound content. This contrasts with the typical Psilocybe cubensis strains, which tend to boast concentrations of total tryptamines ranging from 0.5% to 0.9%.

Despite its relatively diminished potency, it’s important to note that the Lizard King strain still yields potent and profound hallucinogenic effects when consumed. While it may necessitate slightly higher doses to achieve comparable outcomes to more potent strains, the Lizard King strain’s unique characteristics provide a distinctive journey for those who explore its effects. Its allure lies not in overwhelming intensity, but rather in the nuanced and intricate aspects of its psychedelic experience.

A defining trait of the Lizard King strain’s effects is its departure from inducing a significant body high, a sensation often associated with other psilocybe cubensis strains. Instead of the heaviness or physical sensations that some strains may evoke, the Lizard King’s effects manifest as waves of energy and euphoria. This results in an experience that is notably cleaner and calmer, devoid of the pronounced body load that can accompany certain other strains. This clean and euphoric quality contributes to an overall trip that feels more lucid and mentally focused, allowing for a heightened awareness of one’s surroundings and inner thoughts.

The specific nature of the Lizard King strain’s effects also renders it well-suited for particular dosing strategies. Its comparatively gentle and uplifting characteristics make it an ideal candidate for microdosing and light dosing regimens. When consumed in these smaller quantities, users can expect to maintain a heightened sense of mental clarity and a degree of functional normality, making it conducive for outdoor activities and interactions. This characteristic has endeared the Lizard King strain to those who seek a more controlled and less disruptive psychedelic experience while engaging with nature or social environments.

In essence, the Lizard King strain’s potency, or lack thereof, does not diminish the significance of its effects. Rather, it offers an alternative avenue for exploring the psychedelic landscape, characterized by its distinct energy, euphoria, and lucidity. This uniqueness positions the Lizard King strain as a choice that caters to those who value subtlety and control in their psychedelic encounters, aligning well with microdosing intentions and the desire for harmonious experiences amidst natural surroundings.

Where to find spores and cultivation

For those interested in obtaining Lizard King spores, they can be purchased from various reputable online vendors. Ralphster’s Spores and Planet Spores offer Lizard King spores in the form of spore syringes or prints. These vendors cater to customers in different regions such as the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Cultivating Lizard King mushrooms unveils a process that strikes a balance between relative simplicity and the necessity for meticulous control and sterility. While it may not be the ideal starting point for novice growers due to the specific demands it places, individuals with some prior experience in mushroom cultivation can navigate the nuances and intricacies to successfully bring forth this strain’s unique qualities. The endeavour requires a blend of knowledge, patience, and attention to detail, making it a suitable undertaking for those seeking to expand their cultivation repertoire.

Drawing parallels with other strains of psilocybe cubensis, the Lizard King follows a well-trodden path in terms of cultivation methodology. One prominent approach in growing this strain is the PF-Tek method. This technique involves a sequence of steps: beginning with the inoculation of sterile substrate jars with mushroom spores or mycelium, allowing these jars to incubate as the mycelium colonizes the substrate, and subsequently transferring the colonized mycelium cakes to a specialized environment known as a fruiting chamber. It is within this chamber that the mycelium undergoes a transformation, developing into mature and harvestable mushrooms.

The key to successful Lizard King cultivation lies in the precision and rigor applied to the environmental conditions. The mantra of control and sterility rings true throughout the cultivation process. From the early stages of spore inoculation to the later phases of fruiting, maintaining a consistently sterile environment is paramount. Any introduction of contaminants can disrupt the delicate balance required for healthy mycelial growth and mushroom formation.

Lizard King mushrooms display an adaptability when it comes to substrate choice. This strain can flourish on diverse substrates, including Rye Grain, BRF (Brown Rice Flour) cakes, and pasteurized manure. Each substrate option requires careful preparation and adherence to specific protocols to ensure optimal mycelial colonization and fruiting.

An aspect that cannot be underestimated in Lizard King cultivation is temperature control. Both during the incubation stage, when mycelium colonization takes place, and the subsequent fruiting stage, maintaining precise temperature ranges is essential for healthy growth and consistent harvests. Deviations from the recommended temperature parameters can lead to uneven or stunted growth, affecting the quality and yield of the final harvest.

Lizard King is here to stay

The Lizard King strain of psilocybe cubensis, while exhibiting a potency that places it on the milder end of the spectrum compared to certain other strains, boasts a compelling and distinctive characteristic that sets it apart in the realm of mushroom cultivation. This distinctiveness stems from its remarkable affinity for growing on wood, a substrate that deviates significantly from the conventional preferences exhibited by its psilocybe cubensis counterparts. This unique growth pattern is an undeniable hallmark of the Lizard King strain, contributing to its allure and intrigue for cultivators seeking both a novel growing experience and a distinctive array of hallucinogenic effects.

The distinction of the Lizard King strain’s wood-based growth goes beyond being a mere curiosity. It embodies the adaptive flexibility of the fungal kingdom, emphasizing the remarkable variety within even closely related species. This growth pattern serves as a testament to the intricacies of nature’s processes, whereby genetic variation can give rise to unexpected behaviours that defy established norms. This remarkable trait, rarely observed within the psilocybe cubensis family, adds layers of interest and curiosity to the strain’s cultivation journey.

For experienced cultivators who have honed their skills and are well-versed in the art of mushroom cultivation, the Lizard King strain presents an alluring challenge. Its unique growth requirements, notably its preference for wood substrates, provide an opportunity to delve into a distinct facet of mushroom cultivation that goes beyond the usual choices of substrates. This challenge is not just a test of skill, but an invitation to explore the intricacies of the strain’s interactions with its environment and the subtleties of its growth habits.

Furthermore, the Lizard King strain’s nuanced potency, while milder compared to certain counterparts, should not diminish its value. This strain offers a different type of psychedelic experience, characterized by its distinctive effects and the absence of a pronounced body high. Its waves of energy, euphoria, and clarity provide a unique canvas for introspection, creativity, or simply enjoying a harmonious trip outdoors.

In essence, the Lizard King strain encapsulates a fascinating journey for those who seek more than just high potency in their cultivation endeavours. It embodies the essence of exploration, adaptation, and individuality within the world of mushrooms. While it may not stand as the strain of choice for those prioritizing raw potency, its allure lies in its ability to beckon cultivators toward a realm of novelty, challenge, and discovery. For those willing to venture into the world of the Lizard King strain, the rewards extend beyond just the harvest; they encompass a deeper understanding of the diversity and intricacies inherent in the fascinating world of psilocybin-containing mushrooms.