P-51

Although it shares its name with a World War II fighter plane (the P-51 Mustang), the indica hybrid P-51 is anything but fast-paced and aggressive. Descended from Tahoe OG and Blackberry and originally grown in the Pacific Northwest, P-51 offers slow-blooming sedation and a complex flavor profile. It is also potent, with THC levels measured at between 18% and 23%.

When it comes to visuals, P-51’s flowers are not especially appealing. The trimmed buds are relatively small and cling together in pebbly clusters. They have a typically dense and solid indica structure, with smallish leaves. These leaves are a bright shade of spring green and are set off by contrasting orange and yellow pistils. Finally, a thick blanket of icy white trichomes covers the flowers, making them especially sticky.

What P-51’s flowers lack in aesthetics, though, they more than make up for in aroma. An initial whiff of these buds may detect earthy, incense-like notes of sandalwood or moss. There may also be a spicy, peppery kick lurking underneath. Grinding up these solid buds, meanwhile, gives off some astringent diesel fumes. When P-51 is combusted, it gives off a thick smoke that may tickle the sinuses or palate with its acrid scent. On the exhale, this smoke has residual flavors of diesel mixed with some citrus.

Like many other mostly indica strains, P-51 can be a creeper that takes quite a while before it hits. After as many as 15 minutes after it’s consumed, the strain hits smokers with a concerted pressure around the lower forehead and temples. Some users also describe deep flushing in the cheeks. Within minutes, though, these odd sensations melt away, leaving the consumer in a state of deep relaxation. Any lingering muscular tension may evaporate and deep breathing can happen more freely and easily. This is one strain you may not want to smoke in buzzy public settings, as its lethargy can mark extended interaction or physical exertion somewhat difficult. P-51 may also have some pronounced sensory effects, leading to distortions in visual or auditory perception. Users who are so inclined can push these psychedelic properties to the max by turning on some immersive, atmospheric music or a visually-engaging movie. Aside from these trippy sensations, this strain doesn’t do much in the way of mental stimulation.

As time passes or as dosage is increased, P-51’s body high becomes progressively stronger. Whether they’re alone or surrounded by likeminded friends, users may find themselves melting into the couch as the outside world fades into the background. At this point, any work on complicated tasks becomes difficult, if not outright impossible. Instead, enjoy this spacey, floating high while kicking off a binge-watching session or enjoying a beer or two. Because of its mostly drowsy vibe, P-51 is recommended for consumption beginning in late afternoon through evening.

P-51’s deeply sedative effects can also have some value for medical cannabis patients. The strain’s ability to hit the mute button on worries and preoccupations can temporarily improve the symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. It may also soothe physical pain, whether it’s transitory, as in the case of injury, or serious and chronic, as due to diseases like arthritis. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, may lessen the impact of everyday afflictions like cramps or headaches. In properly relaxed circumstances, P-51 can also be a sleep aid, lulling even insomniacs to sleep. Because it is not often associated with obsessive, paranoid states of mind, P-51 is a good choice for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low tolerance for THC.

Seeds of this regional favorite are not available for purchase online. Instead, those looking to grow P-51 at home should find mature, healthy plants of the strain from which they can take clippings. These clippings can be fostered as “clones” that can be grown indoors or outdoors in a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Like other indicas, P-51’s plants tend to grow short and squat, with ample leaf cover and strong sideways branching. Crops can reach maturity after anywhere from 8 to 10 weeks.

P-51 is just what the doctor ordered for unwinding after a long day or shift at work. It’s as enjoyable when toked alone as it is when shared with appreciative friends.