XXX 420

With a provocative name that’s sure to catch consumers’ interest, XXX 420 is a potent indica. The creation of breeding operation Ontario Seed Bank, XXX 420 is a cross between Chemo and Sweet Tooth #3. It has a deeply relaxing physical high as well as a crowd-pleasing tropical aroma. A fifth-place winner in the 2004 High Times Cannabis Cup, XXX 420 has THC levels ranging from 16% to 24%.

XXX 420 stands out thanks to large, well-formed flowers. When trimmed, these buds have a pinecone-like shape, tapering from a broad base into a pointed tip. The flowers have a quintessentially indica internal structure, with a solid core composed of tightly-coiled leaves. These leaves themselves are a dark shade of olive green and are twisted through with curly yellow and orange pistils. Finally, resinous white trichomes cover the dense flowers, making them difficult to break up without the help of a quality grinder.

When properly cured, flowers of XXX 420 have a distinctly fruity aroma with hints of citrus and berry. A deeper whiff may reveal some tangy scents as well, similar to fermented organic matter. Grinding up these flowers. meanwhile, yields a sweet and sour skunk-like odor. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, XXX 420 burns with a smooth, light smoke that’s typically easy on the lungs and palate. On the exhale, this smoke tastes pleasantly fruity and tropical.

As with many other pure indica strains, the high from XXX 420 can take several minutes before settling in. When it does arrive, it strikes smokers with a headrush, characterized by a constricted feeling around the temples and cheekbones; some also report an increase in salivation or flushing of the cheeks. Eventually, these odd sensations are supplanted by a deeply relaxed mental state. Smokers may find themselves freed of any earlier anxieties or preoccupations and tend to become more focused on their immediate surroundings and stimuli. In some settings, XXX 420 can exert some strange sensory effects, like an ineffable feeling of time passing more slowly. Those who are so inclined can bask in these psychedelic vibes by watching an engaging movie or spacing out with some atmospheric music.

Shortly after these mental properties set in, XXX 420 flexes its body high as well. Slow waves of relaxation may start to trickle down the spine and radiate out through the user’s core, relieving muscular tension and making eyelids droop. Any kind of extended concentration might become more difficult at this point, as smokers gives themselves over to a lazy, immersive body melt. If dosage is increased, this sedation can progress into total couchlock, rendering any physical tasks more and more difficult. At this stage, XXX 420 is well-suited to mellow activities like binge-watching or board games. Because of its mostly drowsy, dreamy effects, this strain is recommended for nighttime use.

A recreationally valuable strain, XXX 420’s holistic effects can also have some applications for medical cannabis patients. Its general euphoria may help those suffering from stress, depression, and anxiety to live more fully “in the moment.” On the physical end of the spectrum, the strain’s body high can soothe troubling aches and pains, whether temporary or due to chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, may take the edge off of inflammation-related pains like cramps and headaches. Under the right circumstances, this sedative bud may even counteract insomnia, pulling smokers into a deep and fulfilling sleep. Because it comes with relatively little risk of frenetic, disorienting “mindrace,” XXX 420 is a good option for patients who have a low THC tolerance or who are prone to panic.

Unfortunately for home growers, Ontario Seed Banks has not made seeds of XXX 420 consistently available online. Those looking to grow their own have the option of finding mature, healthy plants of the strain and taking clippings, which can be propagated as genetically identical “clones.” XXX 420 can be cultivated indoors or out, although outdoor success depends on a humid climate with temperatures in the 70 to 80 degree Fahrenheit range. True to their indica roots, plants have a short, squat stature and bushy, sideways-growing branches. Per Ontario Seed Bank, this strain flowers within a very brief 7 to 8 weeks.

A true knockout of an indica, XXX 420 is great for unwinding after a long and demanding day. It’s as fun to toke alone as it is to share with some good friends.