Cambodian landrace strains are potent and pure sativas, with an appealing tropical scent. Native to the country’s mountainous Southwestern regions, the plant is also cultivated by residents of the country’s fertile central plains. Though cannabis is technically illegal in Cambodia, laws against its cultivation and consumption are not strictly enforced (although visitors to the country should show caution and respect if seeking it out). While it’s difficult to come by outside of Southeast Asia, this landrace is known for its buzzy, uptlifting high. Its THC content has been measured at between 14% and 26%.

As with cannabis from Thailand (Cambodia’s neighbor to the Northwest), flowers of Cambodia are unmistakably sativa. The buds, med to large in size, hold together in an elongated, almost cylindrical shape. The long leaves spiral loosely outward from the central stems and can easily be torn away. These leaves themselves are a very dark shade of green and are twisted through with dark brown pistils. Translucent trichomes give the buds a whitish sheen when seen from afar.

When properly cured, flowers of Cambodian smell dank and earthy, somewhat like damp soil. A closer inspection also reveals a fruity, tropical tang lurking underneath. Grinding up these buds releases a slightly astringent, chemical scent. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Cambodian burns with an acrid smoke that can tickle the palate and sinuses. On the exhale, this smoke has an earthy, floral flavor.

Despite mostly sativa genes, this strain creeps up on the user, sometimes taking as long as 15 minutes after the first toke to reveal its presence. Initial effects may take the form of a throbbing around temples and eyes, as well as an increase in salivation. The subsequent of sense of mindrace, in which thoughts take on a seemingly elevated quality and can jump around in free association, may prove overwhelming for some. In the right set and setting, though, this energetic mental stimulation provides an ineffable sense of euphoria. Cambodian can facilitate both deep, analytical focus and imaginative improvisation and brainstorming. With almost no discernible physical properties, Cambodian is not likely to slump its consumers into a state of passivity and couchlock. Nevertheless, it’s also a good way to enhance less productive circumstances: it can set the tone for enjoying some introspective solo time or a chatty afternoon with friends. Cambodian’s mental stimulation can also result in some trippy distortions in sensory perception. Smokers may experience certain sights and sounds with a new dimension or intensity, and many may have strong feelings of time dilation. These psychedelic qualities make the powerful strain a welcome addition to a hike or a camping trip. Because of its stimulating, energetic effects, Cambodian is recommended for daytime use; if consumed before bed, it’s almost certain to keep smokers awake and wired.

Cambodian bud can have many uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its heady, thoughtful high can be a good aid for those with attention deficit disorders. It can also provide some welcome relief for those affected by mild to moderate stress or depression. On the physical side, it can soothe physical pain, whether it’s due to serious conditions like fibromyalgia or is simply incidental, as due to injury. Because its patterns of recursive thinking can mount into paranoia under the wrong circumstances, Cambodian is not recommended for those who are prone to panic or anxiety.

Unfortunately, seeds of Cambodian are not available for sale online. Those looking to grow the landrace at home should seek out a trusted source from which to obtain clippings that can be fostered as clones. It can be cultivated indoors or out, although outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. That said, this strain’s hardy landrace genes may make it resistant to adverse conditions like temperature fluctuations. These plants can grow very tall; those cultivating indoors should trim back their crops to maintain manageable heights. Cambodian flowers within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors.

If you’re lucky enough to make it to Cambodia, sample some of the native bud at one of the local “Happy Pizza” shops, which serve up pies with cannabis-laced toppings. Cambodian sativa is a worthy goal for intrepid cannabis connoisseurs.