Dutch Berry

Dutch Berry (sometimes spelled Dutchberry) is a sativa-dominant hybrid developed by Washington state-based growers Artizen Cannabis. It is a cross between hybrid Dutch Treat sand breeder DJ Short’s signature cut of Blueberry. Dutch Berry comes with all the flavor you’d expect of a blueberry cross, but with the added benefit of therapeutic CBD; parent strain Dutch Treat contains trace amounts of the cannabinoid and Dutch Berry has been selectively bred to have as much as 8% CBD. This strain is no slouch when it comes to THC, though — Artizen claims THC levels as high as 27%. With a powerful but balanced high and a standout flavor profile, Dutch Berry is appropriate for use in a wide variety of settings.

This strain is marked by chunky, medium-sized flowers. Although the buds have a typically indicia structure, with dense, tightly-coiled leaves, the shape of the flowers leans more sativa, appearing tapered and spade-like. The leaves themselves are a surprisingly dark shade of forest green. This uniform color is punctuated by a relatively small amount of hairy orange pistils. Cloudy white trichomes dot the outsides of the flowers, giving this strain a particularly sticky texture. The sweet and rich aroma of berries pops off of Dutch Treat’s cured flowers, accented by some notes of citrus hanging out underneath. Breaking or grinding the buds gives off a pungent musk, perhaps due to the influence of grandparent strain Afghani. When combusted Dutch Berry gives off a smooth smoke that is easily inhaled. On the exhale, it leaves behind a tart berry taste, undercut by a distinct skunkiness.

Dutch Berry’s high comes on quickly, hitting the user with an initially spacey, disorienting headrush. Rather than generate long-lasting confusion, though, this strain is more likely to keep smokers focused as they adjust to their altered perception. Thoughts or feelings may take on a new, more intense dimension. A buzzy and active mood tends to pervade the high, and as a result, otherwise mundane tasks like cleaning or shopping may pass more quickly and pleasantly. Dutch Berry is also a great accompaniment for activities like playing video games. It’s unlikely that smokers will end up couchlocked or otherwise incapacitated; instead, they may be prone to a certain kind of FOMO (fear of missing out) that comes with boosted energy and a cerebral mindset. Because it can leave users unusually wired, this is one strain that should be avoided just before bedtime.

Dutch Berry has several applications for medical cannabis patients as well. Although some breeders attempt to isolate CBD for its sedative and painkilling properties, Dutch Berry contains both CBD and THC. As such, it offers to opportunity to enjoy a thought-provoking high while still feeling at ease and relieved of chronic aches and pains. Dutch Berry’s sense of alertness and immediacy can also be good for patients struggling with stress and depression, as it may help them to live “in the moment,” with greater holistic awareness. Its sustained focus can also aid those with attention deficit disorders in concentrating on a single task. Because of Dutch Berry’s initial cerebral stimulation, it is not recommended patients prone to paranoia or anxiety.

Artizen has not made seeds of Dutch Berry available for commercial sale. Prospective growers will need to obtain clippings from mature, healthy plants of this strain in order to grow genetically identical “clones.” Those who are lucky enough to get their hands on a starter plant will have success growing Dutch Berry indoors or outdoors, although outdoor cultivation requires warm, semi-humid climates with daytime temperatures in the 70 to 80 degree Fahrenheit range. Although there is limited information available on growing this strain, we know that both of its parents have characteristically indica plant types, so growers can likely expect short and bushy crops with strong lateral branches. Dutch Treat and Blueberry also offer a moderate to high yield, so growers of Dutch Berry may expect the same.

Very popular in the Pacific Northwest, Dutch Berry is poised to find success in the newly legal West Coast cannabis market. With a crowd-pleasing taste and a social, chatty vibe, it may be the perfect ice breaker at a party.