Sirius Black

Although it shares its name with a mysterious Harry Potter character, the strain Sirius Black is purportedly named for its deep, dark purple coloring. A growing operation calling themselves the Oregon Breeders Group has taken responsibility for this strain, claiming that it was originally conceived in Portland in the 1980s under the auspices of the so-called Sirius Black Project; Oregon Breeders Group has not revealed Sirius Black’s genetics, though. Whatever the truth of its origins, this fragrant strain has serious bag appeal and an enduring body high to boot. Its THC content has been measured at between 15% and 25%.

Whether or not Sirius Black is really named for its very dark flowers, they’re certainly impressive. Genuine-article buds of the strain are medium to large in size and adhere in tapered, pinecone-like formations. They maintain a characteristically indica structure, with small leaves that curl tightly inward toward their central stems. The leaves themselves are a deep, uniform purple, almost indigo, with very few traces of green. The unusual shade is due to a very high concentration of pigments called anthocyanins. Finally, yellowish pistils and cloudy, translucent trichomes cover all visible surfaces of these stunning flowers.

Sirius Black has a predominantly sweet aroma with fruity overtones. Notes of grape and berry mingle with an underlying woodsy scent, giving the overall impression of potpourri. Grinding up these buds intensifies their earthy tang. Sirius Black gives off a very smooth and easily ingested smoke when burnt in a pipe or a joint. This thick smoke tastes floral and fruity on the exhale.

Smokers may have to wait a while between ingesting this delicious smoke and feeling its heady effects. Within at least 10 minutes, Sirius Black reveals its presence with some increased blood pressure in the head, resulting in some twitching in the temples or flushing in the cheeks. As these odd tics subside, users may notice some surreal changes in their sensory perception, including auditory and visual distortions like a flattening of depth perception. Paired with a favorite playlist, this trippy mood provides a great backdrop for hanging out with some like-minded friends. And indeed, Sirius Black’s subtle mental stimulation can encourage free-flowing conversation in social settings, whether you’re with old pals or new acquaintances. Aside from this kind of chatty energy, though, the strain tends not to have the cerebral intensity of some more sativa-inflected varieties. As time passes — or as dosage is increased — Sirius Black’s indica side becomes more and more apparent, with progressive waves of relaxation rolling through the core and limbs. Smokers who may have been active or standing might find themselves making a rush for the closest couch. At this point, it’s best to put aside any demanding, detail-oriented tasks and enjoy the deep breathing and relief from muscular tensions that this bud provides. In the right set and setting, intractable couchlock is certainly possible, as is drowsiness. Because of its mostly slow-moving vibes, Sirius Black is recommended for evening and nighttime consumption.

Sirius Black’s relaxing properties can have some applications for medical cannabis patients as well. The strain’s ability to relax the body and turn down the volume on internal monologues can temporarily soothe the symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. Meanwhile, its body high can eliminate aches and pains, whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. In the right circumstances, Sirius Black can even be an antidote to insomnia, lulling consumers into a deep, restful sleep. Because it is not likely to bring about any intense, recursive patterns of thinking, this strain is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia.

For prospective home growers living in Oregon, Oregon Breeders Group may be able to provide seeds and clones of Sirius Black through their facebook page. There is little information publicly available on best practices for growing this strain, but like many hybrids, it can be grown either indoors or outdoors in a hot, humid climate. Furthermore, Oregon Breeders Group claims that Sirius Black’s purple color can be achieved through typical growing protocol and does not require gardeners to “cold-shock” their crops by exposing them to lower than average nighttime temperatures.

If you’re lucky enough to live in Oregon, be sure to grab a bit of this impressive bud wherever you find it. Its thorough high and flavorful smoke makes it a must-try for indica lovers and for terpene connoisseurs.