A quick search of Bubblegum cannabis online throws up a somewhat vague collection of info; there’s the original Bubblegum strain and a few modern derivatives. But how much is actually known about this fascinating and flavourful cannabis?
Turns out not all that much. Despite its unique appeal and a quite remarkable flavour, the story of Bubblegum cannabis is shrouded in mystery, behind a cloak of assumptions. So what do we know about Bubblegum genetics?
The History Of Bubblegum Cannabis
Some of the confusion over Bubblegum's origins is undoubtedly attributable to its popularity in every stoner’s favourite tourism trap – the coffee shops of Amsterdam. Like any good strain, the sweet and distinctive Bubblegum cannabis began appearing around De Wallen – the infamous Red Light District in The Netherlands’ capital.
Thanks partly to the liberal laws surrounding cannabis in The Netherlands, breeding and genetic improvement went through the roof in the 80s and 90s. As such, many – if not most – popular strains started showing up in Amsterdam, often creating the misconception they were created there. With Bubblegum, however, this was not the case.
Bubblegum cannabis is believed to have origins in the Midwestern United States – In Indiana, no less. Unfortunately, tracing the roots back to a named breeder is far more complicated, with many writings citing “an unknown breeder” as the architect behind the genetics. Whoever this legendary figure was, they knew their onions. The distinctly fruity strain was named Bubblegum for its flavour and classic aroma and didn’t take too long to become a hit.
Once the original Bubblegum made it to the US east coast, it began to receive attention and accolade, winning two Cannabis Cup awards in 1994, second place in 1995 and again in 1999. The accolades quickly translated into interest, and the race was on to produce similar strains. Like any good strain, Bubblegum ended up in the hands of the Dutch masters. TH Seeds and Serious Seeds began producing their take on the Bubblegum original. In the company’s first genetic endeavour, TH Seeds perfected the blend, and their 1993 spin on the original Bubblegum is considered the industry standard for Bubblegum strains today.
Bubblegum Characteristics
The original Bubblegum is said to be an indica-dominant hybrid variety, and subsequent remodelling of the strain typically retains that approach. The exact genetics of each Bubblegum strain can vary, as breeders have created many different variations of this strain over the years. Serious Seeds’ take on the Bubblegum strain is said to be more sativa-like in its appearance and effects.
Flavour
It’s hard to define the flavour of Bubblegum without using the B-word, but it’s best described as a combination of juicy, fruity flavours. Depending upon phenotype, you may find strong hints of cherry or strawberry as the dominant fruit in the taste profile.
Effect
Bubblegum’s indica-dominant makeup carries the effects you’d normally expect – a somewhat narcotic heavy body buzz with a tendency to cause hunger and a dry mouth, so have the water bottle topped up if you’re having a night on the Bubblegum. Later hybrids have upped the sativa qualities, and users report more pleasant, euphoric effects from these strains.
Growing Bubblegum Strains
Much is written about Bubblegum and her derivatives being heavy feeders. Keep the nutrients up to see the best results come harvest time. While phenotypes vary, the original Bubblegum is described as being short and soldier-like in stature, without too much branching. It’s regarded as reasonably easy to grow, and this resinous wonder has an average flowering time of between 7 and 9 weeks.
The Best Bubblegum Genetics
Seedsman offers a range of Bubblegum genetics, including indica-dominant and sativa-dominant cultivars. From these, we’ve singled out some of the best Bubblegum genetics currently available on Seedsman for you to chew over. These strains are popular and tend to move quickly but check back at a later date to shop the entire range.
Bubbleicious Auto
Nirvana Seeds offers an autoflowering version of the classic Bubbleicious, putting ruderalis genetics to the traditional Bubblegum genetics. Bubbleicious Auto will produce the goods in 10-12 weeks from germination and can yield up to 350gm/m2 of highly resinous, sticky buds.
Bubbleicious Auto is a typical indica-dominant auto in stature, short and somewhat squat, yet vigorous and hardy. Growers will be delighted by the sight of the unique pink flowers, making for a show-stopping appearance in the garden or grow room.
Look forward to a medium to high THC content between 13-18% and deep body relaxation coupled with euphoric uplifting sensations from Bubbleicious Auto. Therapeutic recommendations for this strain include the treatment of stress, depression, and insomnia symptoms. The flavour is everything you’d hope for, with the classic sweet bubblegum taste offset by earthy, floral notes.
Strawberry Banana Gelato XL Auto
Sweet Seeds has combined Bubblegum genetics with a Strawberry Banana clone and a Sweet Gelato Auto to take the bubblegum flavour experience to the next level. Strawberry Banana Gelato XL delivers a fruity-heavy taste sensation like no other.
This compact mostly-indica auto stands short, between 60-125cm, but has the potential for impressive indoor harvests of up to 450-600gm/m2. Taking just 56 days from seed, Strawberry Banana Gelato XL is a quick finisher with generous yields of highly potent buds.
The flavour experience is one for the ages, with heavy strawberry throughout the genetics. Strawberry bubblegum flavour dominates, with curious notes of OG Kush and peppery hints throughout the aroma and taste. The THC content of between 18-22% makes for relaxation but with creative mental stimulation.
