Melmak

Melmak – 10ML Syringe
Psilocybe cubensis | Penis Envy Variant | EXTREME Potency Class

Potency: EXTREME
Tanasi Potency Scale:
Mild: 0.1%–1.1%
High: 1.2%–2.0%
Extreme: 2.1%–3.0%

Origin & Genetic Lineage
Melmak is a rare and powerful mutation of the legendary Penis Envy lineage of Psilocybe cubensis. While the original PE is credited to Terrence McKenna and later refined by Richard Guitierrez, the Melmak variant first appeared in the 1980s through a company called Homestead. They selectively bred and released this alien-like phenotype under limited distribution. The strain gets its name from “Melmac,” the fictional planet from the 80s sitcom ALF, in reference to its bizarre and extraterrestrial morphology. Though genetically tied to Penis Envy, Melmak differs by producing thicker fruits, twisted stems, and often greater biomass per flush.

History & Community Spread
After the fall of Homestead, Melmak became nearly lost to time—until underground genetics circles and advanced cultivators resurrected it from spore samples and isolates. Its resurgence in popularity stems from its unmistakable visual traits and one of the highest psilocybin concentrations among cubensis. Melmak’s performance and appearance make it a sought-after strain in advanced cultivation circles and ceremonial healing spaces. Its extreme effects have earned it a reputation as both a test-lab favorite and a rite of passage for seasoned psychonauts.

Appearance & Morphology
Melmak fruits are distinctly alien in appearance. Caps are thick, tan to golden, and often irregular or underdeveloped compared to normal cubensis. They may appear wavy, bulbous, or lopsided, contributing to the mutant look. Stems are dense, contorted, and often twisted or curved. They display heavy blue bruising upon handling, a clear indicator of high psilocin content. Due to its Penis Envy lineage, Melmak frequently produces minimal spore prints or is entirely sporeless—making it more suitable for cloning and tissue cultures than traditional spore work.

Potency & Effects
Melmak is ranked EXTREME on the Tanasi Potency Scale and is confirmed to be one of the most potent strains in the Tanasi Gardens collection. The effects are intense, long-lasting, and multidimensional, combining visual, emotional, and spiritual phenomena. Common experiences include immersive closed- and open-eye visuals, heightened sensory awareness, emotional catharsis, ego dissolution, and a deepening of spiritual perspective. The trip duration may exceed standard cubensis timelines, and the onset can be gradual but overwhelming. This strain is recommended strictly for experienced users, ceremonial guides, or microdosing professionals who are comfortable navigating highly altered states.

Cultivation Notes
Melmak has a slower colonization time than most cubensis strains, a trait it inherits from its PE background. It performs best on enriched substrates such as CVG with manure or soy hull blends. The mycelium is dense and can be sensitive to moisture levels, requiring properly hydrated grain and stable humidity during fruiting. Fruiting tends to produce fewer but much denser mushrooms, with long consolidation and pinning phases. High fresh air exchange and indirect lighting help reduce mutants and improve morphology. Due to its poor sporulation, cultivators are encouraged to clone high-performing fruits to preserve genetics.

Special Traits
Melmak is often called the “champion strain” for its extreme alkaloid profile and iconic look. It excels in potency testing labs and has become a collector’s staple for those looking to grow something unique, intense, and visually striking. Its fruiting behavior requires more patience and skill, but the payoff is a yield of some of the strongest cubensis fruits in the modern catalog.

Genetics & Materials
Genetics preserved by: Tanasi Gardens
Grain & substrate support by: Sacred Three Mushrooms
Testing (if applicable): Altitude Consulting