As the largest agricultural economy in the United States, California is a thriving center of citrus cultivation. The strain California Limes, developed by Los Angeles-based Wolf Genetics, is named for the state’s quality fruit. While the breeders have not revealed the genetic makeup of this sativa-dominant hybrid, it’s clear that California Limes delivers standout flavors and dynamic, stimulating effects. Its THC content has been measured at between 17% and 25%.

California Limes establishes its bag appeal right away thanks to large, colorful flowers. These long, columnar buds are a dappled mix of pale green with vibrant shades of blue and purple; the latter hues come about thanks to anthocyanin pigments, which can be activated by cold weather during the growing process. The small, eye-catching leaves curl inward on themselves, giving the buds a dense, indica-typical appearance. Finally, frosty white trichomes and curly orange pistils cap off California Limes’ flowers.

As might be expected, California Limes gives off a citrus aroma, with distinct notes of fresh lime zest. A second whiff of the flowers may pick up on some deep notes of grape as well. Grinding up or breaking apart the chunky buds can yield a bit of a peppery kick -- an odor that is intensified when the strain is burnt in a pipe or a joint. California Limes’ thick smoke is surprisingly smooth to inhale; on the exhale, it leaves behind a fruity, slightly herbal impression.

California Limes doesn’t waste much time before hitting smokers with its heady effects. Shortly after toking, consumers may feel a dizzying rush, accompanied by odd facial tics like an increased pressure around the temples or a flushing in the cheeks. Once these strange sensations become more familiar, though, users find themselves elevated to a new plane of thinking. Thoughts may seem to take on a new speed or intensity, leading to chattiness in social situations. Consumers may also be prone to spontaneous free association or may begin to group their ideas categorically. All this mental stimulation can result in productivity on everything from complicated analytical tasks to freewheeling creative projects. Those who aren’t feeling quite to motivated, meanwhile, can just bask in California Limes’ mellow buzz as they go about daily chores or errands.

Even as this high progresses, its mental acuity remains intact. Although they may experience some moderate feelings of physical relaxation, smokers can typically maintain both energy and concentration. As such, California Limes in its later phases is well-suited to activities that involve both mental and physical coordination -- including exercise, gaming, and even sex in the right set and setting. Because of its primarily upbeat vibes, this potent strain is recommended for daytime (or even wake-and-bake) consumption.

California Limes’ engaging effects can have medical benefits to complement its recreational uses. For one, the strain’s plugged-in, cerebral mood can be a great way for those with attention deficit disorders to focus on one task at a time. Its steady glow of euphoria may also temporarily relieve symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. On the physical end of the spectrum, California Limes can have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe common discomforts like cramps and headaches. This bud’s ability to induce hunger can even make it an effective appetite stimulant for those suffering from digestive conditions or undergoing harsh treatments like chemotherapy. Because its sense of “mindrace” can be disorienting for some, though, California Limes is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia.

Wolf Genetics has not made seeds of California Limes available for sale online; prospective growers must seek out mature plants, from which they can propagate clippings as “clones.” The strain can be grown indoors or outdoors in a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Despite their mostly sativa background, plants the short, bushy stature more often associated with indicas. Also like an indica, California Limes has a very short flowering period of between 7 to 8 weeks. Attentive gardeners are rewarded with a relatively high yield of flowers.

A pleasant all-day smoke, California Limes is sure to impress sativa lovers. It’s as enjoyable when consumed alone as it is when shared with friends.