Blue Venom is an indica-dominant hybrid with serious bag appeal. Created by G13 Labs -- the European producers responsible for Blue OG and Royal Kush -- is a cross between two powerhouse strains: tasty Blueberry and the notoriously resinous White Widow. Blue Venom’s sting is sure to infect cannabis novices and veterans alike with a thorough and long-lasting sedation. Its THC content has been measured at between 12% and 23%.

Flowers of Blue Venom impress with surprisingly large buds that have the tight, dense bud structure usually associated with indicas. The tightly-packed leaves are a dark shade of forest green and are threaded through with vibrant orange pistils. Some phenotypes of the strain are also streaked with muted shades of blue and purple; these hues come about when pigments called anthocyanins in the plant’s genes are agitated by colder than average temperatures during the growing process. Finally, Blue Venom’s sky-high trichome production, passed on from White Widow, gives the already-colorful flowers a shiny white sheen and a very sticky texture.

When properly cured, this strain has the unmistakably fresh and fruity aroma of blueberries. Lurking underneath are also some hints of citrus, while breaking open or grinding up the buds releases a rich hashy, piney odor, possibly passed on from its South Asian landrace roots. Blue Venom gives off a smooth, easy smoke when burnt and leaves behind a tart blueberry taste on exhale, along with a mild herbal kick, somewhat reminiscent of Jack Herer. Notably, despite its purple hues, this strain has no discernible grape flavors. Smokers should savor Blue Venom’s unique flavor profile in a joint or a freshly-cleaned pipe.

Blue Venom takes effect relatively quickly for an indica, initially exerting a pressure around the smoker’s eyes and temples. Users may detect an uptick in mood along with a sudden surge in energy. This mood enhancement is typically accompanied by a sharpening of the senses; users may find that external stimuli like sights and sounds take on a new dimension. These slightly trippy effects may amplify conversations and can provide an ideal backdrop for spending time with good friends.  Rather than fueling any kind of intense cerebral thinking, this strain is more likely to help minds wander in a creative, freely-associative way. As the high wears on, Blue Venom tapers down into palpable physical relaxation. Although still mentally stimulated, smokers will find themselves content to melt into their overall surroundings. If dosage is increased, this strain can even lull users into a deep and fulfilling sleep. Because of its progression from energetic stimulation into deep sedation, Blue Venom is best enjoyed in the afternoon or early evening. Its effects can be long-lasting, even for experienced cannabis users.

Blue Venom can have several applications for medical cannabis patients as well. Its ability to relax the body can soothe aches and pains whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. It may also take temporarily blunt the harsh symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. As noted, it can work against entrenched cases of insomnia. Blue Venom can even serve as a potent appetite stimulant. Because it is unlikely to bring about intense cerebral thinking, this can be a good option for those who are prone to panic.

G13 has made seeds of Blue Venom available for sale online. It can be successfully cultivated indoors or out, although success outdoors is predicated on a semi-humid climate with consistent daytime temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is easily accommodated indoors, as its plants have a short and bushy indica silhouette with strong lateral branching. Those looking to bring out Blue Venom’s signature indigo hues should also expose their crops of nighttime temperatures about 10 to 15 degrees below average. This strain flowers within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors.

Blue Venom is an asset for kicking back and unwinding after a long day, whether you’re alone or with friends. If you do bring Blue Venom out in public, be sure to bring enough to share, as its fruity and peppery aroma is sure to turn some heads.