Willy Wonka $80/oz (Sativa)
Willy Wonka is a sativa-dominant strain with a smooth yet energetic high that’s great for cannabis novices. This hybrid is a cross between the Thai-descended Chocolate Trip and famed Cinderella 99. With a robust flavor and powerful effects, it’s no wonder that a concentrate produced from Willy Wonka took home honors in the 2014 High Times Cannabis Cup in Denver. This strain scores consistently high marks for potency -- cannabis testing lab Analytical 360 found multiple samples of Willy Wonka to have between 20% and 28% THC.
Flowers of Willy Wonka tend to be on the smaller side. The nugs, which cling together in a dense, clustered bud structure, are broad at their base and taper into a spade-like point. Hairy red pistils twist their way through the tightly-packed leaves. The leaves themselves are what really make Willy Wonka stand out -- a mossy green, they are often mottled with deep shades of purple. These surprising hues are the result of pigments called anthocyanins in the plant’s genetics. When agitated by cold weather, these pigments create shades of blue and purple in much the same way that depleted chlorophyll levels cause foliage to change color in autumn. Finally, much like the similarly alliterative strain White Widow, Willy Wonka is covered in a blanket of translucent white trichomes that account for its psychoactivity.
The sharp smell of citrus wafts up from cured flowers of Willy Wonka; many smokers also detect distinct notes of apricot in its aroma. Underlying this fruity bouquet is a dank base of pine and damp earth. Breaking open the buds also reveals hints of musk. When combusted, Willy Wonka burns with a smooth smoke that’s easy on the lungs and sinuses. Appropriately enough, this sweet smoke tastes like rich cocoa on the exhale; Willy Wonka himself would doubtless be proud of this unique mix of flavors.
Something of a creeper, Willy Wonka may take several minutes before its effects begin to emerge. A slight distortion of sight and vision is accompanied by surging feelings of euphoria. Endowed with a burst of energy, smokers may feel moved to engage with their surroundings, making this a great strain for exercise. The strain’s lasting feeling of focus can also set the mood for work productivity, whether you’re in a creative or a more analytical field. In social settings, Willy Wonka can inspire intense, engaging conversations with like-minded companions. As the high wears on, users may feel a slight tingle or a mounting sense of relaxation -- but this bud isn’t likely to bring about inescapable couch-lock. A great choice for daytime use, Willy Wonka is just what the doctor ordered for a soothing wake-and-bake session; consumed at night, it’s more likely to keep smokers buzzed and alert before bed. For those with a high THC tolerance, Willy Wonka’s effects tend to taper off relatively early.
Willy Wonka can have several uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its clear-minded lucidity can be a boon to those with attention deficit disorders, greatly improving focus. Its ability to elevate mood can also temporarily relieve the troubling symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. Because its physical effects are more subtle, Willy Wonka can be great for mild irritations like headaches or nausea but may not work as well in soothing chronic, nerve-related pain. Because its initial are energetic without being overly cerebral, this strain can be a great choice for those who are prone to panic.
An agreeable, low-key sativa hybrid, Willy Wonka is versatile enough for use alone or with a large group of friends. For a full Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed smoke session, pair this strain with the more balanced Golden Ticket.
Grape Ape $100/oz (Indica)
Grape Ape is a tasty, memorable strain with strong indica roots. Its distinctive look and complex fruity flavor makes it an easy favorite -- to say nothing of its incredibly potent body high. Grape Ape is the product of strains as different as Mendocino Purps, an award-winning Northern California crossbreed, the influential staple strain Skunk, and a legendary Afghani landrace. The combination of these nuances has yielded a bold and visually striking variety.
Testing lab Analytical 360 has tested samples of Grape Ape at between 15% and 25% THC composition.
Grape Ape is marked by standout colors and multi-layered scents -- this is strain with more consumer “bag appeal” than most. Buds are large and have a dense bud structure with tightly-curled leaves. The leaves themselves are a deep green, with certain phenotypes expressing shades of purple and even red, with copper-colored pistils throughout. Trichome count varies from moderate to high, leaving the flowers especially sticky. The multicolored leaves are also very pungent: a candy-like grape smell wafts from the chunky buds. Breaking open the sticky flowers with a grinder gives off a different odor, with some skunky musk from the Skunk #1 parent and more of a thick hash scent from Afghani. When inhaled though, the slightly harsh smoke from Grape Ape tastes more fruity than skunky -- notes of grape and berries predominate, leaving behind a sweet sensation at the top of the palate.
Notably, the grape taste and purple flavor of Grape Ape aren’t necessarily correlated. Colorful leaves in cannabis are the result of pigments called anthocyanins activated by different conditions, like cooler temperatures. The tastes of different cannabis strains, on the other hand, are mostly determined by compounds called terpenes, and while many strains prone to producing purple leaves also have a combination of terpenes that create a grape-like flavor, not all purple strains taste like grape. In the case of Grape Ape, it may be the case that consumer-focused growers intentionally bring out purple hues for the added visual appeal.
Grape Ape has a high that mounts slowly, eventually leading to a very weighty sensation in the head and limbs. Because of its slow onset, those enjoying Grape Ape should consume cautiously, keeping in mind that a little of this strain can go a long way. In ideal conditions, Grape Ape provides a palpable sense of both mental and physical relaxation, easing users into a spacey calmness. Rather than stimulating rapid-fire thoughts, Grape Ape offers a full body stone. Like the similarly simian-named hybrid Gorilla Glue, Grape Ape may leave you feeling like a clumsy, sleepy primate. Its indica strength makes Grape Ape a helpful strain for those suffering from nagging pain, whether due to temporary aches or more chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. It can also soothe sore muscles after strenuous exercise. Mentally, Grape Ape can melt stress and anxiety with the force of its foggy high. Definitely an after-dark strain, Grape Ape is great for inducing sleep.
Cherry Kush $100/oz (Indica)
Cherry Kush is a flavor-focused, indica-dominant strain that’s well-suited to night time relaxation. This strain was born from staple hybrid OG Kush and a purple-flowering phenotype of the indica landrace Afghani. In addition to a bold, fruity flavor, it is known for its well-balanced effects. Its THC content has been measured at between 13% and 23%.
Cherry Kush sets itself apart with medium to large-sized flowers that hold an elongated, tapered formation, somewhat like miniature pinecones. These buds are true to their indica lineage, with leaves curling tightly inward in a characteristically dense and solid structure. The leaves themselves are a vivid mossy green although frequently, phenotypes of the strain show flashes of purple thanks to a high concentration of the pigment anthocyanin. Finally, these flowers are twisted through with hairy orange and red pistils and are capped off with translucent white trichomes.
The first whiff of Cherry Kush’s cured flowers reveals some sour-sweet notes, somewhat like fermented vegetable matter. Hanging out underneath is a more sweet, berry-like aroma. Grinding, meanwhile, releases a spicy, hashy odor that brings to mind parent strain OG Kush. When burnt in a pipe or a joint, Cherry Kush gives off a pleasantly smooth smoke that goes does easy. This smoke tastes of berry with some traces of skunk on the exhale.
Cherry Kush’s high is a bit of a creeper and may take some time before it fully reveals itself. About 10 to 15 minutes after consumption, though, this strain begins to exert head-focused effects, including possibly flushing in the cheeks or an increased salivation. Once users begin to acclimate to these odd sensations, they can open themselves up to Cherry Kush’s waves of cerebral stimulation. Certain ideas and concepts may hold more weight than they ordinarily might and may flow from one to the next in surprising new associations. This kind of trend-in mindset makes Cherry Kush’ onset a good time for working on complicated, solution-oriented tasks, as well as mundane activities cleaning the house. Many smokers also describe some odd changes to sensory perception in this strain’s early effects, including a warping of their field of visual depth and some uncanny feelings of time dilation. These trippy properties can be pushed even further with atmospheric enhancements like moody music. In fact, after an hour or so, kicking back with a relaxing playlist may be all you want to do, as Cherry Kush’s body high begins to take over. Any previously active consumers may find themselves relaxed, with a newfound weightiness in their eyelids and limbs. While more or less mentally lucid, smokers at this stage may be less likely to have the motivation to get out the door to run through a busy agenda. Instead, enjoy this bud’s later effects as you kick back for a binge-watching session or a snack with some like-minded friends. Because it gradually descends from stimulation into lazy relaxation, Cherry Kush is recommended for consumption between late afternoon and early evening.
Cherry Kush’s versatile effects give it a few applications for medical cannabis patients as well. Its tuned-in mental energy can help those with attention deficit disorders to stay focused on a single task. The strain’s upbeat mood can also temporarily soothe the symptoms of mild to moderate stress, depression, and anxiety. It may even relieve physical pain, whether it’s temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. Because its initially cerebral effects may prove overwhelming in the wrong set and setting, patients who are prone to panic or paranoia should consume this strain with some caution and moderation.
Big Bang $100/oz (Hybrid)
Big Bang smells and tastes like candied apples and flowers. Indica-dominant, this hybrid is a collection of Skunk #1, Northern Lights and El Nino. With a lineage that includes Cannabis from Brazil, Mexico, India, Thailand and Afghanistan, this carefully crafted and cosmically named strain has a THC range between 13 and 19 percent. Nearly narcotic in effect for some users, Big Bang took third place in the 2000 High Times Cannabis Cup.
Providing a sensation of healing and general euphoria from the beginning of use, this strain has been described as rolling a soft blanket over users gently rocking them to sleep. This blanket can numb aches and pains, calm nausea, soothe muscle spasms and induce an appetite. Some users of higher tolerance find the strain allows them to be functional, though Big Bang should still be reserved for the later hours in the day.
Amnesia Haze $100/oz (Sativa)
Amnesia Haze can vary, with some playing host to more cloudy white trichomes than others; psychoactive potency can also vary in these cases. The unique size of the strain buds is matched by a unique scent and taste. The flowers immediately present a lemony tang that is mellowed out by some earthiness. Notes of wood, especially cedar, are evident in the buds. Breaking open the buds gives off a faint spicy scent, which may be familiar to fans of other strains in the Haze family. Despite all this richness, smoke is smooth when inhaled. The taste, both immediately and when exhaled, is again typical of Haze strains, with a spicy and citrus-infected flavor. This can be a pungent strain, and the smell of smoke may linger.
Amnesia Haze has many of the great qualities that mark both indica and sativa varieties, although users may land on the more thoughtful (or even hyper-thoughthful) end of that spectrum. The high comes up almost immediately, inducing cerebral thinking and a sudden acute awareness of surroundings. In a positive set and setting, this mental sharpening can lead to a euphoric state of mind. Users may feel an improvement in mood as well as an energy to accomplish tasks. Although cerebral, Amnesia Haze also has enough of an indica backbone to also provide relaxation and contemplativeness.
The combination of strong mental and physical effects makes this strain a good choice for activities that involve both mind and body, including but not limited to exercise and sex. More medically speaking, Amnesia Haze's sense of focus can be helpful for those with attention deficit disorders who have trouble concentrating on specific tasks. It can also be a strong appetite stimulant.
Despite its relative rarity, Amnesia Haze is a popular strain in areas where cannabis is openly cultivated. Its even, well-balanced high is versatile for both mellow and more boisterous use. In particular, it can leave users chatty, making it a good addition to social situations. Alternatively, Amnesia Haze is a good choice for focusing on work in an isolated setting. Its energizing high is more likely to leave you wired than sleepy, so smoking shortly before bedtime is not recommended. Instead, Amnesia Haze's high and comforting earthy taste is just the thing for spending a cold day indoors.
Death Star $100/oz (Indica)
Death Star is an Indica dominant hybrid strain of marijuana known for it's potency and having a creeping onset. While you may be eying this strain in particular as a Star Wars fan, it's got a lot more going for it than just a cool name.
Death Star is a cross of the infamous Sour Diesel and Sensi Star. This cross breeding results in Death Star having a mix of both indica and sativa effects, giving it a nice balance. This strain is renowned for having high THC Content with potent effects. The buds are thick, fat, and sticky.
Death Star features dark orange hairs on dark green leaves, but can also feature bright, green leaves with darker green accents, and the same vibrant, amber trichomes. Death Star has a pungent, Earthy aroma, many likening it's powerful fragrance as similar to that of a skunks.
Bear in mind it's going to be a bit tricky covering the strong odor of Death Star even just breaking up the sticky buds will leave the room with that unmistakable Death Star scent. The taste is dominantly diesel with a slight citrus kick. The sweetness varies a bit, coming in waves. If you're a big diesel fan you'll absolutely love Death Star.
Death Star, like all strains, has it's own set of medicinal applications. Many people suffering from depression find solace in medicating with Death Star. It also helps alleviate stress as well. Death Star is also great for insomnia, proving itself a very effective sleeping aid. Nausea and pain are two more ailments that Death Star can be used to relieve. Needless to say, Death Star is quite useful for a variety of disorders and medical ailments. This is a great strain to consider if you're looking for the best qualities of both sativa and indica to satiate your woes!
Death Stars journey began in Ohio in the early 2000's. The strain was developed by 'Team Death Star,' who only began popularizing the strain in 2004. Death Star then grew in popularity throughout the Midwest and up and down the East Coast. In 2010, right around a decade after Death Star was conceived, it was featured in High Times.
Strawberry Diesel $100/oz (Hybrid)
Strawberry Diesel is a hybrid strain of cannabis. It is a cross between NYC Diesel and the original Kyle Kushman's Strawberry Cough, both renowned strains in their own right. Users will be provided with a pleasant and balanced experience, deeply relaxing the muscles while providing mental clarity with correct dosage.
The thick diesel taste is complimented by a sweetly strawberry tinge as the name suggests. The fruit scent is evenly mixed with earthy tones, wrapped up in a diesel punch. The buds are medium green in hue, dotted generously with dark orange hairs and covered liberally with a trichomes frosting.
The effects of Strawberry Diesel are quite potent, so novice users should be advised to dose with care. These potent effects come on quick and can prove intense, leaving experienced users focused and uplifted, the mood elevating properties providing a sense of happiness. While novice smokers may be stuck with couch lock, experienced users will feel energized and inspired. For experienced users, Strawberry Diesel may just be the perfect wake and bake.
Medical uses for Strawberry Diesel are truly vast. For those suffering from anxiety or unusually high stress levels, Strawberry Diesel will prove quite useful with its relaxing euphoria. Those suffering from depression can also alleviate these unwanted feelings with a toke of Strawberry Cough. Strawberry Cough provides muscle relaxation, so for those with back aches or general body aches, this strain will certainly be a good choice. Strawberry Diesel can also be used as a sleep aid, helping insomniacs lull themselves into a deep, comfortable sleep, waking up the next morning reinvigorated and refreshed. Strawberry Diesel can also help stimulate the appetite, helping those with eating disorders such as anorexia. The quick onset makes this strain useful in treating migraines as well. Strawberry Diesel can also be used by those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit
Purple Punch $100/oz (Indica)
Mystery breeders are to thank for bringing Purple Punch into our lives, as this potent bud offers a burst of flavor with effects that you’ll crave time and time again. Crossing Granddaddy Purple with Larry OG Larry OG was a smart idea, as this indica-dominant strain brings forth the best in both of her parents. Individuals who are longing for equally strong mind and body effects should give this bud a go.
While she may not sound strong at a high of 20% THC, Purple Punch does also include 1% CBD and ends up hitting you like a Mack truck. Nugs are dense and bright with a neon tone to them accompanied by reddish pistils and amber trichomes. Some might describe the flavors and aromas of this bud as a punch to the face, and rightfully so, as a strong grape Kool-Aid note is present. However, this is balanced out by other delicious flavors including blueberries, vanilla, and herbs.
Your high with Purple Punch starts off with full force, as a strong cerebral stimulation will hit you just behind the eyes. Spirits are lifted with ease and you’ll almost feel like a balloon that’s floating up into the sky. As you continue to get higher and higher, both literally and metaphorically, bodily effects will kick in and help to balance things out with a heavy state of sedation. Depending on your tolerance, you may find this to be the ideal time to curl up and sleep for the night, or at the very least the point in the evening when you put on your favorite movie and space out.
Purple Punch is known for her ability to lift one’s spirits with ease, so it’s no surprise that medical users turn to her when they are down in the dumps. Both stress and depression are soothed relatively quickly, and instances of bodily pain are also treated with ease. If you have a headache, cramps, muscle spasms, or nearly any other ailment, turn to Purple Punch. Obviously, this bud is also great for individuals who battle insomnia on a regular basis.
When you want to blast your tastebuds and also have a truly memorable cannabis experience, Purple Punch is the way to go. This bud is readily available in many places across the nation, so give this bud a try and watch all of your cares fade away.