Starfighter

Starfighter is a well-balanced hybrid originally created by breeders Alien Genetics. It is a cross between two of Alien Genetics’ other signature crossbreeds: Tahoe Alien and Lemon Alien Dawg. Hybrid devotees will be pleased by this strain’s high, which is powerfully uplifting and invigorating without making smokers jittery. Starfighter is a versatile strain that deserves a spot in any smoker’s artillery. Cannabis testing lab Analytical 360 has found flowers of Starfighter to have an average THC content of about 20%.

Starfighter is marked by medium-sized flowers that hold a dense, tightly-packed bud structure. Its leaves range in color from pale to dark forest green and are threaded through with rust-colored pistils. Tinges of purple also emerge in certain phenotypes, the result of pigments called anthocyanins being stimulated by cold temperatures during the growing process. The buds are flecked by white — and in some phenotypes, amber — trichomes that give the flowers a resinous texture even after they’re dried and cured.

The rich, unmistakable aroma of pine wafts up from the eye-catching buds, giving them even greater bag appeal. This woodsy scent is punctuated by a sharp chemical tang, leaving the overall impression of a pine-scented cleaning product. Grinding up or breaking the nugs yields notes of hash and incense, no surprise given that both parent strains come from a Kush genetic line. When combusted, Starfighter often burns with a harsh, acrid smoke and leaves behind a taste of lemon on the exhale.

This dynamic strain takes effect slowly, chipping away the the user’s conventional perception. Within minutes, smokers can detect a sharpening of the senses, with certain sights, sounds, and even tastes taking on new dimensions. Thoughts may flow more freely, facilitating creative thinking or deep analytical problem solving, depending on the user’s mood and setting. A psychedelic edge may creep in, and visual and auditory distortions are frequently reported. As the high wears on, Starfighter’s indica side shows itself, relieving tensions and keeping any overly cerebral thinking at bay. This excellent blend of mental and physical effects easily lends itself to mellow activities like listening to trippy music, binge-watching, and carrying on rambling conversations. Relaxing without being incapacitating, Starfighter has long-lasting effects even for more seasoned cannabis users.

Just as its recreational uses are multifaceted, Starfighter can have wide-ranging applications for medical cannabis patients as well. It can temporarily relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate cases of stress, depression, and anxiety. This strain can also work physiologically, dulling entrenched aches and pains and soothing headaches and upset stomachs. Starfighter comes with a lower than average risk of “mind race” and paranoia, making it a good option for those who may be prone to panic or anxiety.

Starfighter has proven to be an elusive strain in the cultivation market. The original breeding stock is either lost or very scarce — there are some rumors of breeders paying up to $20,000 for pure, original Starfighter seeds! Luckily for the rest of us, Exotic Genetix has approximated this strain’s makeup and has made seeds available for sale online under the names Starfigher F1 and F2. Once obtained, Starfighter can be grown indoors or outdoors, although successful outdoor cultivation requires a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures in the 70 degree Fahrenheit range. Plants have the short and bushy appearance typical of indicas; growers may want to ensure that any low-growing nodes receive enough light and air by regularly trimming away any broad fan leaves. Those looking to bring out this strain’s subtle purple hues should also expose the plants to cold (but not freezing) temperatures late in the vegetative stage. Flowering begins within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors. Finally, Starfighter can be a particularly pungent grow, and those looking to keep their indoor operations discreet should invest in measures like carbon air filters or exhaust fans.

Appropriate for use at virtually any time of day, Starfighter is the rare kind of hybrid that can be bent to the smoker’s will. It’s as enjoyable in buzzy social situations as it at home, and can spur on productivity or enable laziness. Its uniquely earthy and woodsy aroma can be particularly suited to a hike or a brisk nature walk.