Lets talk about the differences between the 4 big boys: Kush, Haze, Skunk & Diesel. What's the difference? Which strains might be best? Where did these 4 cultivar families come from?
Hello Committee! Let's embark on a sensory journey through the diverse and aromatic landscape of cannabis cultivar families. Each family, from the earthy embrace of Kush to the fuel-driven power of Diesel, the uplifting Haze, and the pungent allure of Skunk, has its own unique story to tell.
Whether you're unwinding with the tranquillity of Kush, revving up with the high-octane Diesel strains or succumbing to the potent relaxation of Skunk, each cultivar family contributes a unique flavour to the cannabis symphony, appealing to different preferences and moods.
The key differences between the four prominent cultivar families paint a vivid tapestry of diverse cannabis experiences. Kush strains, renowned for their calming and sedative effects, offer a tranquil journey into relaxation with earthy and piney undertones. On the flip side, Diesel strains bring high-octane energy and euphoria, featuring pungent, fuel-like aromas that fuel creativity. Haze varieties elevate the spirit with a blissful cerebral journey, boasting citrusy and skunky fragrances that inspire creativity and uplift the mood.
Lastly, Skunk strains contribute a pungent and potent experience, leaning towards relaxation, making them a timeless favourite for enthusiasts seeking a robust, flavourful encounter. Each cultivar family unfolds a unique set of characteristics and effects, ensuring there's a strain to harmonize with every individual preference and desired mood. Not everyone will feel the same way, as we each have our own experiences and different brain structures, but as a general guide, you can't go far wrong by reading on.
"The biggest killer on the planet is stress and I still think the best medicine is, and always has been, cannabis."
- Willie Nelson
Kush Varieties: A Symphony of Earthy Bliss
Kush Overview: Kush strains are renowned for their tranquilizing effects and earthy, sweet aromas. Originating from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Northern India, these strains have a long history of providing relaxation and stress relief. Kush varieties often produce dense buds with a high resin content, contributing to their calming effects. Popular Kush strains include OG Kush and Hindu Kush.
Kush Characteristics: Kush strains typically exhibit indica-dominant characteristics, inducing a relaxing and sedative high. They are known for their earthy and sweet flavour profiles, often accompanied by notes of pine and spice. The dense buds of Kush strains are covered in trichomes, contributing to their potent effects. These strains are favoured by those seeking relaxation, pain relief, and sleep enhancement.
Kush Origin: Kush strains trace their roots to the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Northern India. The harsh climate and high-altitude conditions in the Hindu Kush mountains have contributed to the development of hardy cannabis plants with unique characteristics. Over the years, Kush genetics have spread globally, influencing a wide range of hybrid strains.
Our Favourite UK Kush Strains
OG Kush:
Characteristics: OG Kush, the undisputed OG, unleashes an earthy and piney aroma with citrus undertones. Its buds are dense, deep green, and covered in fiery orange hairs. The effects? A tranquilizing euphoria that's perfect for an evening unwind.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, pine, citrus.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, limonene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Stress relief, pain management, insomnia.
Unique Traits: Dense, resinous buds with fiery orange hairs.
Hindu Kush
Characteristics: From the mystic peaks of the Himalayas, Hindu Kush delivers a sweet and spicy aroma, inducing a zen-like calm. Its buds are compact, earthy green, and coated in a resinous layer. Ideal for a peaceful evening.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, spicy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Caryophyllene, humulene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives outdoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, stress relief, pain management.
Unique Traits: Compact, resinous buds with sweet and spicy notes.
Bubba Kush:
Characteristics: Bubba Kush brings a sweet, hashish funk to the party, and its dense, dark green buds are a testament to its potency. The effects are deeply relaxing, making it an excellent choice for bedtime.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, hashish.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but requires a controlled environment.
Medical Benefits: Insomnia, stress relief, pain management.
Unique Traits: Potent, relaxing effects with a sweet hashish aroma.
Northern Lights:
Characteristics: Northern Lights, a distinguished member of the Kush family, envelops users in a soothing experience with its sweet and earthy aroma. The buds are dense, resinous, and emit a pungent yet pleasant fragrance. Known for its relaxing effects, Northern Lights is a classic Kush strain that has stood the test of time, providing a tranquil escape for cannabis enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, earthy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, stress relief, insomnia.
Unique Traits: Pungent aroma with dense, resinous buds.
White Widow (Hybrid)
Characteristics: White Widow, a renowned hybrid often associated with Kush characteristics, presents a balance of indica and sativa effects. Its buds are frosty white with resin, exuding a sweet and floral aroma. The high combines relaxation with a cerebral uplift, making White Widow a versatile and popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, floral.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, mood enhancement, creativity.
Unique Traits: Frosty white buds with a balanced indica-sativa experience.
Blueberry Kush:
Characteristics: A delightful cross of Blueberry and OG Kush, Blueberry Kush offers a sweet and fruity aroma with a touch of earthiness. The effects are relaxing, making it a good alternative for Kush enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, fruity, earthy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but prefers indoor cultivation.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, stress relief, mild pain management.
Unique Traits: Fruity aroma with relaxing effects.
Key Differences between Kush, Diesel, Haze, and Skunk: While Kush strains focus on relaxation and calmness, Diesel strains take a high-energy, euphoric approach. Haze strains elevate the spirit with a blissful cerebral journey, and Skunk strains offer a pungent, potent experience leaning towards relaxation. Each family paints a unique canvas of effects and aromas, catering to a diverse spectrum of preferences.
"When you smoke the herb, it reveals you to yourself."
- Bob Marley
Diesel Varieties: Fuelling Your Senses
Diesel Overview: Diesel strains are recognized for their high-energy and euphoric effects, making them favourites among those seeking a potent and invigorating experience. Originating in the United States, Diesel strains have become synonymous with bold aromas reminiscent of fuel or citrus. Iconic strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush Diesel exemplify the Diesel family's distinct characteristics.
Diesel Characteristics: Diesel strains typically exhibit sativa-dominant effects, providing users with a cerebral and uplifting high. The aroma is often described as diesel-like, featuring fuel, citrus, and sometimes earthy undertones. Diesel strains are known for their potency and the ability to boost creativity, focus, and energy levels.
Diesel Origin: The Diesel family's roots can be traced back to the United States, where it gained popularity on the West Coast. Strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush Diesel have become legendary within the cannabis community. The Diesel genetic lineage has influenced numerous hybrid strains, contributing to the diversity of the modern cannabis market.
Our Favourite UK Diesel Strains
Sour Diesel:
Characteristics: Sour Diesel, the high-octane powerhouse, releases a pungent, fuel-like aroma with skunky and citrus undertones. Its buds are dense, coated in orange hairs, and pack a euphoric punch. A perfect choice for creative endeavours..
Flavour Profile: Pungent, citrus.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Creativity, stress relief, fatigue.
Unique Traits: Potent, energizing effects with a distinct fuel-like aroma.
Strawberry Diesel:
Characteristics: A delightful fusion, Strawberry Diesel marries the sweet aroma of strawberries with diesel undertones. Its buds are dense and vibrant, offering an uplifting and creative high. Ideal for a daytime smoke.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, fruity, diesel.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, terpinolene, limonene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but adapts well outdoors.
Medical Benefits: Uplifting, creativity, stress relief.
Unique Traits: Sweet, fruity flavour with a diesel kick.
Chemdawg:
Characteristics: The whispered legend, Chemdawg, boasts an earthy, powerful aroma, and its buds are known for their potency. The effects are cerebral and relaxing, making it a go-to choice for a chill session.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, pungent.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Challenging.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but requires expertise.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, anxiety relief, creativity.
Unique Traits: Potent, mysterious origins with a strong, earthy aroma.
London Diesel:
Characteristics: Keeping it local, London Diesel is a regional favourite with a fuel-like aroma and a hint of citrus. The effects are uplifting and energizing, making it a suitable alternative for Diesel enthusiasts in the UK.
Flavour Profile: Diesel, citrus.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but prefers indoor cultivation.
Medical Benefits: Energy, focus, stress relief.
Unique Traits: Regional adaptation with an uplifting, citrus-infused diesel aroma.
Key Differences between Kush, Diesel, Haze, and Skunk: While Kush strains focus on relaxation and calmness, Diesel strains take a high-energy, euphoric approach. Haze strains elevate the spirit with a blissful cerebral journey, and Skunk strains offer a pungent, potent experience leaning towards relaxation. Each family paints a unique canvas of effects and aromas, catering to a diverse spectrum of preferences.
Haze Varieties: Where the Clouds Take You Higher
Haze Overview: Haze strains are celebrated for their uplifting and euphoric effects, making them popular among cannabis enthusiasts seeking a creative and energetic experience. Originating in the 1960s and 70s, Haze strains have a complex genetic lineage, often featuring sativa dominance. Known for their citrusy and often skunky aromas, Haze varieties include iconic strains like Super Silver Haze and Amnesia.
Haze Characteristics: Haze strains are characterized by their sativa-dominant effects, offering a cerebral and energizing high. They often feature bright green buds with a distinct, pungent aroma. Haze strains contribute to increased creativity, mood enhancement, and a sense of euphoria. The flavour profiles of Haze strains include citrus, spice, and sometimes sweet undertones.
Haze Origin: The exact origin of Haze strains is complex, with some of the earliest varieties believed to have roots in California. Haze genetics gained popularity during the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. The intricate genetic makeup of Haze strains involves landrace sativas from different regions, resulting in a diverse and influential family of cannabis cultivars.
"Indeed, marijuana is less toxic than many of the drugs that physicians prescribe every day."
- Dr. Joycelyn Elders
Our Favourite UK Haze Strains
Super Silver Haze:
Characteristics: A three-time Cannabis Cup winner, Super Silver Haze delights with a citrusy and skunky aroma. Its buds are airy and coated in silvery trichomes, delivering a euphoric high that uplifts the spirit.
Flavour Profile: Citrusy, skunky.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, limonene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate. Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Creativity, stress relief, mood enhancement.
Unique Traits: Citrusy aroma with silvery trichomes.
Lemon Haze:
Characteristics: Adding a zesty twist to the Haze family, Lemon Haze exudes a refreshing lemon aroma with uplifting effects. Its buds are bright green and coated in glistening trichomes, offering a creative and energetic high.
Flavour Profile: Zesty, lemon.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Limonene, terpinolene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but adapts well outdoors.
Medical Benefits: Uplifting, creativity, stress relief.
Unique Traits: Zesty lemon flavour with bright green buds.
Amnesia:
Characteristics: Classic in its own right, Amnesia brings a unique blend of earthy and citrusy notes. The effects are cerebral and energizing, providing a distinctive experience for Haze enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, citrusy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, limonene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Energy, focus, creativity.
Unique Traits: Cerebral effects with a blend of earthy and citrusy flavours.
Key Differences between Kush, Diesel, Haze, and Skunk: While Kush strains focus on relaxation and calmness, Diesel strains take a high-energy, euphoric approach. Haze strains elevate the spirit with a blissful cerebral journey, and Skunk strains offer a pungent, potent experience leaning towards relaxation. Each family paints a unique canvas of effects and aromas, catering to a diverse spectrum of preferences.
Cheese: A UK Favourite
Cheese Overview: Cheese strains are renowned for their pungent aroma and potent effects. Originating in the UK as a unique phenotype of Skunk #1, Cheese is a well-known indica-dominant hybrid with a strong and distinctive smell. It has gained popularity for its calming and euphoric effects, making it a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts.
Cheese Characteristics: Cheese strains are characterized by their indica-dominant nature, providing a relaxing and euphoric high. They are known for their pungent and sour aroma, with a unique flavor profile. The dense, visually appealing buds of Cheese are typically light green to deep olive, complemented by vibrant orange pistils, showcasing the indica influence in their structure.
Cheese Origin: Cheese is considered a phenotype of Skunk #1 and is believed to have originated in the UK in the late 1980s. It is a unique blend of Afghani (Indica), Acapulco Gold (Sativa), and Colombian Gold (Sativa), resulting in its distinct characteristics. The strain's analgesic properties make it beneficial for relaxation, stress relief, and pain
management.
Our Favourite UK Cheese Strains:
Exodus Cheese:
Characteristics: Exodus Cheese, also known as UK Cheese or Cognitiva, offers a pungent and sour aroma with potent effects. Its dense nugs are light green and coated in orange hairs, providing energetic and euphoric effects without sedation.
Flavour Profile: Pungent, sour, with undertones of berry and spicy cheese.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relief from chronic pain, insomnia, and inflammation.
Unique Traits: Pungent aroma, dense nugs with orange hairs
Royal Cheese (Fast Flowering):
Characteristics: Royal Cheese is a pungent strain with a high resin content, resulting in potent effects. Its taste and high led to increased demand, making it common throughout the UK and in jurisdictions where cannabis is legal.
Flavour Profile: Pungent.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Not specified.
Growing Difficulty: Not specified.
Indoor/Outdoor: Not specified.
Medical Benefits: Not specified.
Unique Traits: High resin content, potent effects
UK Cheese:
Characteristics: A quintessential British strain, UK Cheese, is known for its pungent aroma reminiscent of aged cheese. Its buds are dense and carry a unique combination of skunkiness and cheesy goodness.
Flavour Profile: Pungent, cheesy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, caryophyllene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but adapts well indoors.
Medical Benefits: Stress relief, mood enhancement.
Unique Traits: Pungent aroma with a distinct cheesy undertone.
Skunk Varieties: The Potent Pioneers
Skunk Overview: Skunk strains are characterized by their pungent aroma and potent effects, offering a diverse range of experiences from relaxation to euphoria. Originating in the 1970s, Skunk strains have become iconic within the cannabis world. Skunk genetics often contribute to hybrids, adding their signature scent and robust effects. Popular Skunk strains include Skunk #1 and Cheese.
Skunk Characteristics: Skunk strains can exhibit both indica and sativa characteristics, providing a balanced high. The distinguishing feature of Skunk varieties is their pungent aroma, often described as skunky, earthy, or cheesy. These strains are known for their potency, making them suitable for both recreational and medicinal users seeking relaxation, stress relief, or mood enhancement.
Skunk Origin: Skunk strains originated in the 1970s when breeders in California crossed Afghani, Mexican, and Colombian landrace strains. The result was Skunk #1, a groundbreaking hybrid with a strong and distinct aroma. Skunk genetics quickly spread to Europe, becoming a cornerstone of cannabis breeding and contributing to the development of countless hybrid strains.
Our Favourite UK Skunk Strains
Blue Cheese
Characteristics: Blue Cheese, a proud member of the Skunk family, boasts a distinctive aroma reminiscent of ripe blueberries mixed with a pungent cheese undertone. Its buds are dense and coated in resin, delivering a balanced high that leans towards relaxation. The blend of sweet and savoury notes creates a unique flavour profile, making Blue Cheese a flavourful favourite among skunk enthusiasts throughout the UK.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, savoury, pungent.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, stress relief, appetite stimulation.
Unique Traits: Distinctive blueberry and cheese aroma with a balanced, relaxing high.
Northern Lights:
Characteristics: A classic and enduring favourite, Northern Lights delivers a sweet and earthy aroma with relaxing effects. Its buds are dense, covered in resin, and emit a pungent yet pleasant fragrance.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, earthy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, stress relief, insomnia.
Unique Traits: Pungent aroma with dense.
Super Lemon Haze:
Characteristics: Infusing a burst of citrus, Super Lemon Haze delights with a zesty and skunky aroma. Its buds are bright green, coated in trichomes, and provide an energizing and uplifting high.
Flavour Profile: Citrusy, skunky.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, limonene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Creativity, stress relief, mood enhancement.
Unique Traits: Citrusy aroma with bright green buds.
Amnesia:
Characteristics: Classic in its own right, Amnesia brings a unique blend of earthy and citrusy notes. The effects are cerebral and energizing, providing a distinctive experience for Haze enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, citrusy.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, limonene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Energy, focus, creativity.
Unique Traits: Cerebral effects with a blend of earthy and citrusy flavours.
Lemon Haze:
Characteristics: Adding a zesty twist to the Haze family, Lemon Haze exudes a refreshing lemon aroma with uplifting effects. Its buds are bright green and coated in glistening trichomes, offering a creative and energetic high.
Flavour Profile: Zesty, lemon.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Limonene, terpinolene, myrcene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but adapts well outdoors.
Medical Benefits: Uplifting, creativity, stress relief.
Unique Traits: Zesty lemon flavour with bright green buds.
Key Differences between Kush, Diesel, Haze, and Skunk: While Kush strains focus on relaxation and calmness, Diesel strains take a high-energy, euphoric approach. Haze strains elevate the spirit with a blissful cerebral journey, and Skunk strains offer a pungent, potent experience leaning towards relaxation. Each family paints a unique canvas of effects and aromas, catering to a diverse spectrum of preferences.
Hybrid Cannabis Strains: The Best Of Both?
Hybrid strains effortlessly blend the best of both worlds, combining the relaxing body effects of indicas with the uplifting cerebral qualities of sativas. With various ratios, hybrids cater to individual preferences, offering a balanced cannabis experience. This versatility has made hybrids a popular choice, enriching the cannabis landscape with unique aromas, flavors, and effects. Whether seeking creative inspiration or relaxation, hybrids tailor the journey for enthusiasts, contributing to the ever-evolving world of cultivars in the UK.
"Alcohol kills. Weed chills. If we all had a bong, we’d all get along."
- Unknown
Our Favourite UK Hybrid Strains
Bubblegum
Characteristics: Bubblegum, a delightful hybrid strain, fills the air with a delightful bubblegum aroma. Its buds are dense, pink-hued, and provide a euphoric and uplifting high.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, fruity.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene.
Growing Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors. Medical Benefits: Uplifting, stress relief, mild pain management.
AK47
Characteristics: A classic with an edge, AK47 brings a complex aroma of earthiness and floral notes. The effects are a blend of relaxation and uplifting euphoria, making it an alternative choice for Diesel enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, floral.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate. Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, mood enhancement, pain relief.
Unique Traits: Complex aroma with balanced effects.
Jack Herer
Characteristics: Jack Herer, a sativa-dominant hybrid often associated with Haze characteristics, delivers a spicy and piney aroma that invigorates the senses. Its buds are dense and feature a rich trichome coverage. Known for its uplifting and creative effects, Jack Herer pays homage to the cannabis activist of the same name, offering a spirited and energizing experience for enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Spicy, piney.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Terpinolene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate. Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Uplifting, creativity, focus.
Unique Traits: Rich trichome coverage with a spirited and energizing high.
White Widow
Characteristics: White Widow, a renowned hybrid often associated with Kush characteristics, presents a balance of indica and sativa effects. Its buds are frosty white with resin, exuding a sweet and floral aroma. The high combines relaxation with a cerebral uplift, making White Widow a versatile and popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, floral.
Aroma (Terpene Profiles): Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene.
Growing Difficulty: Moderate.
Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but thrives indoors.
Medical Benefits: Relaxation, mood enhancement, creativity.
Unique Traits: Frosty white buds with a balanced indica-sativa experience.
Cultivar Families: A Cannabis Symphony
As we draw the curtain on this exploration of Kush, Diesel, Haze, and Skunk cultivar families, it becomes clear that each family is a distinct instrument in the symphony of cannabis experiences. Whether you crave the soothing strains of Kush, the electrifying beats of Diesel, the euphoric melodies of Haze, or the potent rhythms of Skunk, there's a cultivar waiting to compose the perfect soundtrack for your journey.
Comprehending the diverse characteristics and effects of these cultivars empowers enthusiasts to craft a personalized cannabis experience. So, as you navigate the expansive world of cannabis, envision each strain as a note, contributing to a unique and harmonious composition that caters to the individual preferences of cannabis connoisseurs.