Cactus Cooler

Not to be confused with the citrus-flavored soda of the same name, Cactus Cooler is a sativa-dominant strain that bursts with interesting flavors. A cross between the ever-popular Blue Dream and old standby OG Kush, this bud offers consumers a buzzy, upbeat head high that slowly gives way to a soothing body stone. Cactus Cooler’s THC content has been measured at between 14% to 23%.

When trimmed, Cactus Cooler’s large flowers maintain a chunky, spade-like shape, tapering from a broad base into a narrow, pointy tip. The buds have an internal structure characteristic of indicas, with dense, tightly-packed leaves. The leaves themselves are a mild shade of sage green and are shot through with curly orange pistils. Finally, sticky, dewy-looking trichomes coat all visible nooks and crannies of Cactus Cooler’s flowers, accounting for their potency and making them hard to break up by hand.

While the soft drink Cactus Cooler has a distinct orange and pineapple flavor, the strain isn’t quite as tropical. A first whiff of the cured flowers may pick up on earthy notes of wood and leather, while close inspection tends to reveal some of the fruitiness associated with parent strain Blue Dream. Grinding up the flowers, meanwhile, gives off some of the spice and hash that are characteristic of the bud’s Kush lineage. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Cactus Cooler gives off a rich but very smooth smoke that’s easily inhaled. This smoke has a fruity flavor on the exhale, mixed with some hints of pine.

Cactus Cooler’s high is something of a creeper and may require up to 15 minutes after smokers have consumed its tasty smoke to begin exerting its effects. At first, smokers might notice tics like a sped-up pulse around the temples and behind the eyes; an increase in salivation in also sometimes reported. Soon after they arrive, these physical sensations are supplanted by a change in cognition — thoughts may run through the user’s mind more quickly than usual or may flow from one to the next in a surprising, freely-associative way. Ideas can also take on a newfound intensity. In all, this elevated cerebral mindset can help busy smokers focus on detailed and analytical tasks, whether they’re work-related or tied to personal projects. On the other hand, the ongoing internal chatter that Cactus Cooler provides can be a great way to add some background stimulation to otherwise boring jobs like cleaning the house or running errands. The strain’s tendency to turn up the volume on internal monologues can also have the effect of inspiring good conversation in social situations, even when shared with strangers. As the high wears on, Cactus Cooler starts to reveal its layers of physical relaxation. Lingering muscular tension may find release as a palpable tingle works its way down the neck and through the core. Although users can maintain the initially brainy, tuned-in energy, they may be less likely to exert themselves and may instead prefer to kick back in comfort at home. Because of its gradual decline in energy levels, Cactus Cooler is recommended for consumption between late afternoon and evening.

Cactus Cooler can also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. The focused mindset that comes with its onset may be a boon to those with attention deficit disorders. The bud’s smooth euphoria can also temporarily relieve symptoms of stress and depression. Physically speaking, Cactus Cooler may dull sharp aches and pains, as well as inflammation-related conditions like headaches and cramps. Because its early effects can include some paranoia or overly intense introspection, Cactus Cooler is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Seeds of Cactus Cooler are not available for sale online and those wishing to grow the strain at home should seek out clippings that can be propagated as “clones.” Once obtained, the plants can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Plants tend to grow short and bushy with a typically indica silhouette. Cactus Cooler generally flowers within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors.

Combining the even-tempered relaxation of Blue Dream with the physical sedation of OG Kush, Cactus Cooler is a must-try for fans of either of its parent strains. This bud’s unique flavor may also be of interest to terpene nerds.