No, a California Sour isn’t some mixologist’s take on a Pacific-themed cocktail; it’s actually a hybrid that combines the powerful genetics of Mexican and Afghani landraces. With a distinctly diesel-tinged aroma, California Sour makes a great all-purpose strain for indica and sativa lovers alike. Its THC content has been measured at between 13% and 20%.

California Sour is distinguished by medium-sized flowers that adhere in chunky, irregular shapes. The buds have an indica-looking structure, with relatively small leaves that twist tightly inward toward their central stems. These leaves are a dark forest green and are twisted through with contrasting brown and orange pistils. A carpet of icy, translucent trichomes covers the flowers, making them very sticky to the touch.

Described as offensive and off-putting by some, California Sour has a bold flavor that mixes top notes of gasoline with some fruity accents. Taking a deeper whiff of the flowers may also pick up on a sour odor, similar to fermented vegetable matter. Grinding up or breaking apart the buds yields a deep peppery scent that’s so characteristic of parent strain Afghani. When combusted, California Sour’s smoke may be harsh and acrid, stinging the sinuses. This smoke has flavors of diesel and orange on the exhale.

California Sour doesn’t waste much time before showing off its heady psychoactive effects. Within a few minutes of consumption, smokers may feel a palpable headrush, accompanied by sensations like a flushing in the cheeks or a feeling of pressure around the temples. These early signs of the strain’s action are soon met with a change in the smoker’s though processes -- concepts (and even certain objects) that might not otherwise be interesting can hold a newfound fascination. Additionally, users may be struck by a giddiness that manifests in laughter and easy amusement, especially when California Sour is shared with likeminded friends. The strain’s tendency to boost the speed of its consumers’ trains of thought can also inspire free-wheeling conversation.

Within an hour or so into the high, California Sour is characterized by a strong body stone. Users who may have been active or out and about may find themselves struck by a heavy feeling of relaxation, with the limbs taking on a sudden weightiness. While this physical effect can help to relieve any long-held bodily tension and allow for deep and restorative breathing, it may also undermine motivation to get through a busy agenda. As such, those looking to get some work done under California Sour’s influence should do so before this indica body stone kicks in. In its latter stages, the strain is great for kicking back with passive activities like crafting, binge-watching, or just chewing the fat with some friends at the end of a long day. Because of its decline in energy levels, California Sour is recommended for consumption starting later on in the day; if toked right before bed, it’s liable to keep consumers wired and agitated.

California Sour’s medical applications include both physical and medical benefits. Its upbeat mood may also temporarily soothe the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. The strain can also dull physical pain, whether it’s chronic, as due to conditions like lupus, or temporary, as due to injury or mild inflammation. This variety’s tendency to induce the munchies makes it a good appetite stimulant for those who have decreased hunger due to disease or invasive medication. California Sour is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia because of the obsessive, recursive patterns of thinking that can arrive with its onset.

Seeds of California Sour cannot be purchased online. Those looking to grow the hybrid at home should seek out mature plants from which they can take clippings to grow genetically identical “clones.” While there’s little information available on best cultivation practices specific to this strain, we know that it can be grown indoors or outdoors in a hot and humid climate. Plants tend to grow squat and bushy with strong lateral branching and flowering with 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors.

California Sour is a great strain for winding down just before dusk. It’s fun to consume whether you’re toking alone or sharing with friends.