Desert Star

The lush landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and California are often associated with cannabis, but the same isn’t often the case of desert biomes. The hybrid Desert Star stands to change that, with a dank, kushy aroma and a well-balanced high. Devised by Phoenix, Arizona’s Encanto Green Cross, Desert Star’s genetic background has been kept proprietary by the dispensary. Nevertheless, it’s clear that locals value this strain for its holistic effects. Desert Star’s THC content has been measured at between 10% and 15%.

Flowers of Desert Star aren’t much in the looks department. When trimmed, these buds are only small to medium in size and cling together in dense, pebbly clusters. The nuggets have an unmistakably indica structure, with small leaves that curl inward toward their base stems. The leaves themselves are a mossy green and are twisted through with curly orange pistils. Finally, a high volume of translucent white trichomes dots these solid flowers, lending them their psychoactivity.

When properly cured, Desert Star’s flowers hold a deeply earthy scent, similar to soil or a damp basement. A closer inspection may pick up on some sour skunky notes as well. Grinding up or breaking apart the small flowers gives off an odor reminiscent of hash, possibly suggesting that the strain is descended from an Afghani landrace. When it is burnt, Desert Star can give off a harsh and bitter smoke, irritating the palate and sinuses. On the exhale, this thick smoke tastes mostly skunky.

Desert Star begins to take action relatively quickly after it is consumed. Some early signs that the strain is working may be a tingle in the lower forehead and temples and a slightly dizzying headrush. What follows these unfamiliar sensations is a sudden intensification of the user’s thoughts. Some concepts or objects may seem more fascinating than they ordinarily would and may stimulate a kind of freely-associative thought process. If able to focus on one thing at a time, consumers may find the cerebral energy useful for productivity on complicated analytical tasks. For those who don’t have work on their minds, though, the strain provides a glowing background bliss that’s just as good for mundane chores like cleaning the house or running errands. Additionally, Desert Star’s tendency to boost the volume on inner monologues can lead to chattiness and friendly vibes in social settings.

As the high wears on (or as dosage is increased), Desert Star begins to work its magic on the body as well. Relaxation weighs down the limbs and eyelids in equal measure, rendering any active or motivated smokers suddenly tired. In these later stages, Desert Star is more appropriate for lounging at home with a good book or movie than it is for powering through a to-do list. As such the strain is recommended for late afternoon or early evening use when its full range of effects can be fully appreciated.

Desert Star’s well-rounded effects can have some versatile medical properties as well. The strain’s uplifted mood can temporarily counteract the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. This bud may also alleviate the physical pain that’s associated with chronic conditions like cancer, lupus, or fibromyalgia. Anti-inflammatory properties can address more minor concerns like nausea and headaches. In properly relaxed circumstances, Desert Star may even help facilitate sleep. Because its onset can come with some strong, obsessive patterns of thinking, this strain is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia.

Encanto Green Cross has not made seeds of Desert Star commercially available. Those looking to grow the bud at home should seek out a trusted source from which to obtain clippings from mature, healthy plants which can be propagated as “clones.” The strain can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation favors a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures in the 70 to 80 degree Fahrenheit range. Crops reach maturity within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors.

Although somewhat difficult to find outside of its native Arizona, Desert Star can provide indica and sativa lovers alike with a unique taste of the desert. It’s a fun smoke whether you’re toking alone or with friends.