California Hash Plant is a well-bred indica with a rich aroma and therapeutic effects. It is a cross between Hash Plant and classic hybrid Northern Lights -- a combination that gives the strain a deeply body-focused high. Thanks to higher than average levels of CBD, California Hash Plant may be more medically than recreationally effective; THC content has been measured at levels ranging from 8% to 12%.

Flowers of California Hash Plant are medium to large in size and adhere in elongated, column-like shapes. The buds have a characteristically indica structure, with a solid center composed of small, curling leaves. These leaves themselves are vibrant spring green and are shot through with bright yellow pistils. Finally, despite the resinous output of parent strain Hash Plant, California Hash Plant has relatively few trichomes, accounting for its low to moderate levels of THC.

Cured buds of California Hash Plant have the rich, peppery odor you might expect from a strain with a double dose of Afghani in its genes. A deeper whiff of the flowers may pick up on some subtle citrus notes as well. Breaking apart or grinding up these buds, meanwhile, yields a musky scent redolent of damp soil and leaves. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, California Hash Plant burns with thick, heavy smoke that can cause watery eyes or coughing fits. On the exhale, this smoke leaves behind sour and slightly fruity flavors.

Because of its uncommon ratio of CBD to THC, California Hash Plant’s high can be subtle and difficult for smokers to recognize. After some 10 or 15 minutes after consumption, the strain may begin to exert some head-focused effects like flushing in the cheeks or a stimulation of the salivary glands. Once these sensations become more familiar, users might detect some changes in perception; slight visual and auditory distortions may occur and an uncanny feeling of time dilation is common. At the same time that this mindset settles in, smokers may also feel some progressive physical relaxation. Any knots of tension may slowly untie themselves as consumers’ limbs and eyelids begin to sag. One thing California Hash Plant won’t do is stoke intense, cerebral thinking -- as such, this may not be the best strain for those looking to harness some productivity.

As this high continues, its physical effects may become more palpable. For those who are lucky enough to be lounging around at home, California Hash Plant can pin them in place, causing any external preoccupations to recede into the background. At this point, smokers may find more enjoyment doing passive things like snacking or watching TV. This can be an especially fun, lazy vibe to share with a small group of like-minded friends. Because of its slow descent into relaxation, California Hash Plant is recommended for evening and nighttime use.

Thanks to its significant levels of CBD, California Hash Plant can have medical benefits that may outweigh its physical applications. Its thorough, full-bodied relaxation can take the edge off of symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. It can also dull physical pain, whether related to minor inflammation or to chronic conditions like lupus or arthritis. In a totally relaxed set and setting, California Hash Plant may even counteract entrenched cases of insomnia, lulling smokers into a deep sleep. Because it comes with minimal risk of obsessive, paranoid thinking, this strain is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Those looking to grow this strain at home have the option of buying seeds online. Once obtained, California Hash Plant can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success calls for a humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants tend to be short and bushy with strong lateral branching patterns. California Hash Plant reaches flowering maturity with a very quick 7 to 8 weeks when grown indoors. At harvest time, it can offer up to 46 grams (1.6 ounces) of flower per square foot of plant.

A calming strain with lower than average psychoactivity, California Hash Plant can be a great medication for those seeking sedation and pain relief. Its landrace indica roots may also make this strain of interest to cannabis connoisseurs.