Hong Kong

A mish-mash of cultural influences and ideas, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most unique cities. The strain that bears its name is no different — it’s a cross between staple sativa Sour Diesel and award-winning indica Sensi Star. Hong Kong has a memorable aroma, with shades of citrus and gasoline, as well as an uplifting and long-lasting high. With a slight sativa edge, this bud is assured to provide the necessary boost to power through a busy day. Its THC has been measured at between 18% and 25%.

The size of Hong Kong’s buds isn’t particularly impressive, as they appear small and popcorn-like, even when properly trimmed. The flowers have the dense, solid bud structure often associated with predominantly indica strains. The vivid color palette of these buds makes them stand out, though — the leaves are an eye-catching patchwork of mossy green and deep purple, twisted through with vibrant orange pistils. Any purple shades are the result of pigments called anthocyanins that become activated due to cold temperatures in the growing process. Trichomes cover the inner and outer surfaces of these buds, giving them a frosty appearance and a resinous texture.

Floating on top of Hong Kong’s bouquet is a sweet, fruity odor with definite citrus overtones — users compare this scent to orange or grapefruit. On closer inspection, Sour Diesel’s influence becomes obvious, with sweet and skunky gasoline-like fumes wafting up from the cured buds. Meanwhile, grinding up these flowers yields some subtle hash and spice. When burnt, the strain gives off a harsh smoke that may induce coughing for some. On the exhale, the smoke tastes like an unusual combination of diesel and citrus. Anyone enjoying this strain in public should take the necessary precautions, as Hong Kong can be a particularly pungent smoke

Hong Kong’s effects set in quickly, launching smokers into new heights of perception and emotional well-being. What begins as a concerted pressure around the eyes and temples soon blooms into an increase in cerebral thinking. Thoughts may flow in a freely-associative manner, allowing users to transcend their surroundings and overcome any prior negative mood. Rather than becoming disorienting and spacey, though, Hong Kong allows its consumers to keep their feet planted firmly on the ground, able to interact and maintain focus in public. It’s a great strain for doing work, whether it’s creative or more rigid and analytical. As time passes or as dosage is increased, this bud’s indica side takes over, conferring a weighty feeling in the core and limbs. Breathing may happen more deeply and easily as the outside world recedes into the background. On its backend, Hong Kong is a good way to unwind after a long day. In social settings, its relaxed vibe can allow for free-flowing conversation with like-minded friends. This strain is best enjoyed during the afternoon or early evening; if consumed before bed, it may keep smokers awake and wired.

Hong Kong’s far-reaching effects can also have applications for medical cannabis patients. Its early sense of focus may help those with attention deficit disorders to sustain concentration on a single topic. Its physically relaxing effects can also soothe deep-seated aches and pains, while its anti-inflammatory properties can numb everyday irritations like headaches and nausea. In high enough doses, it can even lull insomniacs into a deep, fulfilling sleep. Because its onset is associated with intense cerebral thinking, Hong Kong is not recommended for those who are prone to panic or who have a low tolerance for THC.

Hong Kong does not seem to be bred for its seed stock. As such, prospective home growers must obtain clippings from mature, healthy plants of the strain in order to grow genetically identical “clones.” While there is little information available on specific best practices for growing this variety, we know that, like most hybrids, it can be grown indoors or outdoors in a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Growers looking to bring out Hong Kong’s purple bag appeal should expose their crops to nighttime temperatures at least ten to fifteen degrees below average.

Supremely balanced, Hong Kong can take you through a full day with its journey from energy down to thorough relaxation. It’s sure to find a place in the stash boxes of indica and sativa lovers alike.