Cambodian psilocybe cubensis spore print

The Cambodian strain is one of the most celebrated wild-collected Psilocybe cubensis varieties in the world. Discovered in the shadow of the legendary Angkor Wat temple, this Southeast Asian strain combines a captivating origin story with a reputation for exceptionally fast, vigorous growth. Its warm-toned caps and energetic character have earned it a loyal following among collectors and mycology enthusiasts for over two decades.

Discovered at the Gates of Angkor Wat

The Cambodian strain was collected around the year 2000 by ethnomycologist John W. Allen — widely known in the mycology community as "Mushroom John." Allen found the mushrooms growing in cattle dung near the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap, the largest religious monument in the world. The region's tropical climate — hot, humid and rich in natural substrates — provided ideal conditions for Psilocybe cubensis to thrive. Allen brought the spores back to the West, where the strain quickly gained a reputation for its remarkable speed and reliability. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable and historically significant wild-type cubensis lines available.

Visual Characteristics of Cambodian

• Cap: Medium-sized, caramel to cinnamon-brown, convex when young and flattening at maturity. Often develops a subtle central bump and lighter tones towards the edges.
• Stem: Sturdy and dense, white to pale tan, displaying the typical bluing reaction when handled.
• Overall appearance: Classic, well-proportioned tropical cubensis with warm earthy tones — compact and solid rather than tall and slender.

Renowned for Speed and Vigour

Among all Psilocybe cubensis strains, the Cambodian is consistently cited as one of the fastest colonisers. Its aggressive, rhizomorphic mycelium spreads rapidly across substrates, and the strain thrives in warm conditions that would slow down many other varieties. This vigour, combined with its stable genetics and consistent fruiting, has made the Cambodian a favourite reference strain for collectors who want to see what a truly high-energy cubensis lineage looks like. It is also valued for its dense, purplish-brown spore deposits, which produce clear, well-defined prints.

How to Use a Spore Print

Not sure where to start once your spore print arrives? We have put together a detailed guide that walks you through the entire process, from scraping spores off the print to preparing them for microscopy or long-term storage. Read our step-by-step instructions here: How to Use a Spore Print.

Why Add Cambodian to Your Collection

If you are building a diverse Psilocybe cubensis collection, the Cambodian fills the role of the tropical wild classic. Its combination of genuine provenance — collected at one of the most iconic archaeological sites on Earth — fast and aggressive growth characteristics, and warm, earthy appearance make it a standout variety. Whether you are drawn to its connection to Angkor Wat and John Allen's expeditions or simply appreciate a vigorous, beautifully coloured cubensis strain, the Cambodian is a must-have in any serious spore library.