Animal Blues is an indica-leaning hybrid with bag appeal and a potent high to match. Created by breeding operation In-House Genetics, it is a cross between perennial favorite Animal Cookies and the colorful Platinum Blueberry Kush. The resulting bud is colorful and fragrant and offers a creative, relaxing high. Animal Blues’ THC content has been measured at between 17% and 23%.

Flowers of Animal Blues are marked by a medium to large size and a chunky, roughly tapered shape. Despite mostly indica genetics, they have a sativa-influenced structure, with long leaves that overlap one another in folds, creating a coral-like appearance. Where these buds really stand out from the pack is their color, which mixes forest green with deep hues of blue and purple; this cool palate is the result of anthocyanin pigments, which are activated by cold weather during the growing process. Finally, curly orange pistils and snowy, translucent white trichomes make these vibrant flowers even more eye-catching.

When properly cured, flowers of Animal Blues have a mostly sweet, fruity aroma with distinct notes of berry, likely passed on from Platinum Blueberry Kush. A deeper whiff might pick up on some earthy, biscuity scents as well. Grinding up or breaking apart the flowers gives off more of a sour, skunky tang. When they’re burnt, meanwhile, these nugs can give off a pungent, acrid smoke that can tickle the palate and sinuses and cause watery eyes. On the exhale, this thick smoke tastes fruity and slightly sour.

Like many other indica-dominant strains, Animal Blues creeps up slowly and may need up to 15 minutes before fully unveiling its effects. Eventually, smokers may feel some pressure around the temples and cheekbones as well as a possible increase in salivation. As these odd sensations dissolve, consumers are immersed in an altered headspace, characterized by sensory phenomena like slight visual and auditory hallucinations or a strong feeling of time passing more slowly. Consumers who are so inclined can amplify these trippy vibes by turning on some moody music or a dynamic, engaging movie. Beyond these psychedelic properties, though, Animal Blues won’t do much in the way of mental stimulation and users looking to harness the strain for focus and productivity may find themselves disappointed.

As this high precipitates, a deep body stone emerges to complement its mental effects. Waves of relaxation that start at the base of the neck may slowly roll down through the spine and out through the core. Users who are already lounging at home can seem to melt into their surroundings as any outside preoccupations are rendered irrelevant. At this point, thoughts may take on even more of a hazy, dreamy character, making Animal Blues best suited to lazy pursuits like binge-watching or snacking. Because of its mostly sedative nature, this strain is recommended for nighttime consumption, when it can be properly savored.

Animal Blues’ thoroughly relaxing effects can have several benefits for medical cannabis patients as well. Its glow of euphoria can help to counteract the harsh symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety The strain may also dull physical pain, whether it’s temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, can address less pressing concerns like headaches and cramps. In high enough doses and properly relaxed circumstances, Animal Blues may even sink insomniacs into a deep, restful sleep. Because it comes with little to no risk of disorienting “mindrace,” Animal Blues is a good option for patients who are prone to paranoia or who have a low THC tolerance.

In-House Genetics has made seeds of Animal Blues available through several online retailers. Once obtained, the strain can be grown indoors or out, with outdoor success depending on a hot and humid climate with consistent daytime sunlight. Plants to grow short and bushy with strong, sideways-growing branches. Gardners looking to highlight the strain’s signature blue and purple hues should briefly expose their crops to nighttime temperatures of between 55 and 65 degrees, just before flowering begins. Animal Blues is ready for harvest within 8 to 9 weeks and offers a relatively high yield of buds at maturity.

With a standout appearance and a high to match, Animal Blues can be an especially fun indica to share with friends. If you do break it out in public, bring enough to share, as the strain’s pungent aroma is sure to attract some attention.