There’s no question that the spectrum of modern cannabis genetics appearing on dispensary menus is vast beyond measure. The emergence of medical marijuana markets has invigorated interest in unique strains, spurring efforts to identify and select appealing attributes and excite patients with promising new products. Still, as the 21st century brings fascinating advancements in cannabis, it’s important to remember the earlier achievements in breeding that made this progress possible. Among them, Northern Lights #5 x Haze is arguably one of the most influential.
Before the first American dispensary opened its doors, Dutch growers worked tirelessly to preserve historic genetics from around the globe. Their greatest trademark, the famous Haze plant, combined the world’s finest sativas. Yet, it bore the burden of its equatorial heritage, growing tall and slow. Conversely, the renowned indica Northern Lights produced short, thick, and fast-flowering plants, but lacked the invigorating cerebral effects of the great sativas. Fittingly, the two were combined to produce an early example of the incredible potential of modern cannabis breeding.
Though well-known in connoisseur circles, the name Northern Lights #5 x Haze itself has been largely overlooked due to its legacy of legendary successors. The same genetics were soon used to produce Jack Herer, Super Silver Haze, and many more. As a result, the Northern Lights #5 x Haze strain will always be better known by other names, but remains a groundbreaking hybrid that inspired several of the most sought-after sativas.
Its familiar aroma evokes the earthy, peppery spicy of its classic Haze parentage, along with a hint of sweet citrus from the indica side of the hybrid. Bred specifically for sativa-dominant effects, Northern Lights #5 x Haze is famously energizing and cerebral, prized for promoting motivation and creativity. The pleasant physical effects of the North Lights #5, though less pronounced, serve to balance its stimulating sativa influences.
Though seldom seen on today’s dispensary menus, Northern Lights #5 x Haze is a true treasure for any fan of sativa strains or classic cannabis genetics in general. We’re excited to feature this historically important plant as our December PSC Gram of the Month.
