Named for its tangy chewing gum-like aroma rather than for a high-powered machine gun, Bazooka Joe is an indica-dominant hybrid. Although its origins are not well-documented, this strain may be a phenotype descended from the Indiana-born Bubblegum. Bazooka Joe expresses well-balanced physical and mental effects alongside its trademark scent. Its moderate levels of THC, which have been measured at between 13% and 18%, are good news for newcomers to cannabis.

Bazooka Joe stands out with solidly-formed flowers that range in shape from medium to quite large. Although they’re genetically more indica than sativa, the buds seem to have a structure more associated with the latter; the loose, fluffy leaves twist freely away from their central stems, giving the flowers and overall ragged appearance. The leaves themselves are a yellowish green and are twisted through with relatively few orange pistils. A dusting of snowy trichomes finishes off these sticky buds.

The first whiff of Bazooka Joe picks up on its powerfully sweet and fruity nature. Hanging out underneath is a slightly more sour, skunky odor. Grinding up the flowers, meanwhile, gives off an earthy, incense-like fragrance. When combusted, Bazooka Joe burns with a very smooth and easily inhaled smoke. This smoke tastes like pure candy on the exhale.

Not long after consumers have exhaled it tasty saccharine smoke, Bazooka Joe begins to take effect in the head, exerting an increase in blood pressure. Some feelings of dizziness are possible, along with odd sensations like an increase in salivation or a flushing in the cheeks. These tics are followed up by a distinct change in the smoker’s thinking patterns. Some otherwise uninteresting ideas may suddenly seem fascinating. Similarly, the consumer may seize on new connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. This kind of cerebral and uninhibited mindset can be remarkably social, helping to facilitate conversation and good vibes, even when shared with new acquaintances. On the other hand, if you need to be productive, Bazooka Joe can enable focus for detailed analytical tasks, as well as add some excitement to boring chores like doing the dishes. Within an hour or so after this initial sativa high, the strain’s indica side begins to creep in. A weightiness in the limbs and eyelids may be followed up by the sudden desire to sit down (if you’re not already doing so). While smokers at this stage can still retain their faculties and carry on coherent conversations, they may lose some of their earlier motivation. As such, Bazooka Joe’s backend is a nice way to enjoy undemanding activities like crafting, playing games, or just listening to music. Because of its slow decrescendo in energy levels, Bazooka Joe is best enjoyed between late afternoon and early evening. Avoid using it just before bed, though, as its early cerebral effects may keep you wide awake.

Bazooka Joe may also have several uses for medical cannabis patients. The tendency towards concentration that comes with its onset can allow for deep focus on complicated tasks. Additionally, its mood-boosting quality can temporarily relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. The strain can also dull physical pain, whether it’s chronic and disease-related or a simple everyday inflammation like cramps and nausea. Because it is not known to induce any strong, recursive patterns of thinking, Bazooka Joe is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low tolerance for THC.

Seeds of Bazooka Joe are not available for sale online. Home gardeners should seek out mature, healthy plants of the strain and take clipping from them. These clippings can be grown as genetically identical “clones;” they can thrive indoors or outdoors, but outdoor success typically requires a semi-humid climate with consistent daylight and high temperatures. Bazooka Joe flowers within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors.

Bazooka Joe’s one-two punch of effects makes it a good strain for indica and sativa lovers alike. Its cotton candy scent may also make it attractive to terpene connoisseurs.