Every generation has its icons. From music to fashion, and cannabis strains, these enduring classics serve as symbols and hallmarks of their time, embodying cultural attitudes, social changes, and often the creative and innovative spirit of their creators. This article focuses on a select group of cannabis strains that have, through a combination of popularity, distinctive features, superior quality, and a place in cannabis lore, achieved the status of 'classic' cannabis strains.
What Makes A Strain A Classic Cannabis Strain?
Not all cannabis strains are created equal. Some have, over time, managed to rise above the rest and earn a special place in the hearts and minds of enthusiasts and casual users alike. The question arises: what makes a strain a classic cannabis strain?
Popularity: One of the first things that make a cannabis strain classic is its popularity. Strains that have enjoyed sustained interest over time and have been consistently sought after by consumers are often considered classics.
Features: Strains with distinctive sensory characteristics, such as a unique aroma, flavour, or visual appeal, tend to become classics. Whether it's the zesty tang of citrus, the comforting scent of pine, or the striking purple hues of the plant, memorable features contribute to a strain's legendary status. And today more than ever, if a strain has therapeutic properties, word quickly spreads. Sleep aid or pain-relieving properties are in high demand, and will boost a strain’s profile quickly.
Quality: A strain may achieve popularity and exhibit unique features, but without a reputation for consistent quality, it won't become a classic. Quality encompasses various factors, such as potency, reliability, and the experience it provides. Stable genetics are often at the heart of quality, and this is reflected in our list of golden oldies and modern marvels.
Place in Cannabis Lore: Lastly, a strain’s place in cannabis lore is crucial in determining its classic status. Strains referenced in popular culture or have interesting backstories often become iconic. All it takes is a mention in a song or a movie, and any strain of cannabis can experience a huge bump in popularity.
Now, let's explore some classic cannabis strains that have left indelible marks on the industry and culture in the last 60 years.
10 Classic Cannabis Strains On Seedsman
1. Acapulco Gold
Acapulco Gold, originating from the sunny landscapes of Acapulco, Mexico, has graced cannabis culture since the 1960s. Named for its golden hue reflecting the warmth of its birthplace, this strain typically boasts a THC content of around 20%, offering users a potent euphoric high. Acapulco Gold exhibits a complex terpene profile dominated by caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, lending it a unique blend of earthy, citrus, and sweet flavours. It remains a quality standard among cannabis connoisseurs and has even found its way into pop culture references such as the Cheech and Chong movies, Quentin Tarantino's 'Pulp Fiction', and countless TV shows. Acapulco Gold name stands at or near the top of any list of classic cannabis strains.
2. Maui Wowie
Maui Wowie is a strain steeped in the spirit of its Hawaiian roots. With a relatively moderate THC level averaging around 13%, this strain offers a pleasant and energetic sativa-dominant high. A high myrcene content is responsible for the tropical and fruity aroma, giving users a sense of vacation relaxation with each inhale. Maui Wowie has held its spot on the wall of classics due to its ability to transport its users to a beachside hammock, which you’ll crave after trying it! Maui Wowie follows in the footsteps of Acapulco Gold, first rearing its golden-flecked head sometime in the 1960s. Its popularity may have waned in recent years, but at the height of its fame, this legendary classic cannabis strain was the ultimate sativa.
3. Northern Lights
Northern Lights, an indica strain from a genetic lineage of Thai and Afghani varieties, is a spectacle to behold. With THC levels reaching up to 22%, Northern Lights is known for its potent, profoundly calming effects. Its terpene profile is characterized by high levels of myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, producing a spicy and sweet aroma. This classic cannabis strain has been around since the 1970s – you’ve almost certainly had it more than once. Even today, it’s one of the most popular strains among growers and smokers with most seedbanks offering their own versions of the legendary Northern Lights. Seedsman's Northern Lights Auto is one of the best, with around 23% THC content and a lifecycle of just 60 days.
4. Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a renowned, pure Sativa cannabis strain, originally discovered in the port city of Durban, South Africa by High Times writer Ed Rosenthal, when he went looking for new genetics in the 1970s. An icon in the cannabis world, its precise lineage remains a mystery due to its age and the scarcity of early breeding records. However, it's generally believed that Durban Poison is a landrace strain, meaning it's a pure, naturally occurring variety, honed over centuries by the specific environmental conditions of its home region. Average THC levels typically fall around 15-20%, but select phenotypes can reach as high as 24%. The strain also boasts relatively high concentrations of the terpene, THCV, a rarity among cannabis strains, which is believed to offer a variety of health benefits. It has a sweet and earthy aroma, often likened to licorice or aniseed. Durban Poison gives a cerebral rush accompanied by a sense of euphoria and creativity, and these incredibly stimulating effects were a key to its early populariy.
5. Skunk #1
A defining strain in cannabis breeding history, Skunk #1 is recognised for its consistent performance and intense aroma.Sacred Seed Co debuted the strain in the late 1970s, breeding from a blend of Afghani genetics, Colombian Gold and the equally-legendary Acapulgo Gold. A THC level averaging 19% delivers a cerebral high that's both euphoric and relaxing. Its terpene profile, rich in myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene, contributes to its characteristic 'skunky' scent, with additional earthy and citrus undertones. Skunk #1 is a solid backbone to many breeding programmes, and its influence on cannabis genetics alone is enough to secure its place as a classic cannabis strain.
6. White Widow
White Widow, named for its frosty white crystal resin, offers a potent and balanced high with THC levels often exceeding 20%. Bred by Green House Seeds in the '90s, this strain's terpene profile is dominated by myrcene, producing a solid earthy and woody aroma. Frequently referenced in pop culture, White Widow quickly became a staple in Amsterdam coffee shops, and it sparked a small tourism boom as cannasseurs flocked to the European home of cannabis to sample this incredible strain. Word travelled quickly, and so did White Widow. It embarked on a world tour, putting roots down everywhere it went, and would impress anyone who sampled its dank, resinous flowers. White Widow is still a best-seller 30 years later and a guaranteed hall-of-famer with bulletproof credentials as a classic cannabis strain.
7. Blue Dream
Born in the early 2000s Blue Dream's balanced high combines physical relaxation and cerebral invigoration. A little of the legend surrounding this relative newcomer is that as yet, nobody appears to be taking credit for the breeding, although it's believed to have originated in Santa Cruz, California as an intended medical strain. Combining a Blueberry with a Haze gives a fairly high THC content averaging 20%, appreciated by both recreational and medical users. Its terpene profile, high in myrcene and pinene, imbues the strain with a sweet berry aroma and subtle pine notes, making it a favourite among enthusiasts. This strain is a nouveau classic and is in high demand worldwide. The therapeutic powers of Blue Dream ensured a meteroic rise to success. Even so early in its lifetime, Blue Dream has at least the making of a classic cannabs strain - but it's arguably a modern classic.
8. OG Kush
All hail the OG! A standard-bearer of the West Coast cannabis scene, OG Kush is famous for its potent effects, typically reaching THC levels of 20-25%. This strain is high in terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, giving it a complex fuel, skunk, and spice aroma. As the genetic parent of many famous hybrids, OG Kush's influence and unforgettable aroma have enshrined it as a classic cannabis strain. You’ll find it at the backbone of many of today’s greatest hybrids, and it will undoubtedly lend its qualities to new strains for years to come. You're looking at cannabis royalty here, folks - OG Kush is a true matriach in the cannabis world.
9. Jack Herer
Jack Herer, named after the legendary cannabis activist, boasts uplifting effects that many users find to be a perfect balance between cerebral and physical. The original version was created in the 1990s by Sensi Seeds, and it was soon rewarded with the prestigious High Times Cannabis Cup. Jack Herer typically has a THC content of around 20%. Its unique terpene profile, high in terpinolene, pinene, and caryophyllene, provides an appealing spicy, peppery pine aroma. It stands as a classic in the industry, paying tribute to one of the most significant figures in cannabis folklore, and continues to be enjoyed by enthusiasts worldwide. A classic cannabis strain, named after a classic cannabis figure.
10. Granddaddy Purple
Introduced in 2003 by breeder Ken Estes, Granddaddy Purple, while a relative newcomer, is swiftly achieving classic cannabis strain status. Known for its bold purple hues, stunning neon greens, and fruity aroma, this strain often reaches 17-23% THC levels. Myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene dominate its terpene profile, contributing to its sweet grape and berry flavours. As it continues to rise in popularity and recognition, it has become a staple for those seeking physical relaxation and a sense of euphoria. For extra credibility, Grandaddy Purps is Snoop Dogg’s favourite strain, but this therapeutic trailblazer will make you feel better than James Brown!
These are some of the most lauded and legendary cannabis strains in the world today. But what's next on the hall of fame? Time will tell!
