Cherry Kola is a strain that, up until 2016, was really hard to find. It had been entered in several categories at the 2014 High Times Cannabis Cup in its home area of Sonoma County and came away with rave reviews. Since then it has boomed, winning five awards over many competitions worldwide, leaving Sonoma County residents something to boast about besides wine. This hybrid with unknown origins is quickly becoming a fan favorite, putting the appropriately named Cherry Kola Farms on the map.

The THC on this bud is astronomically high with an average of 22% which is great for the advanced smoker who wants to try something a little more unique. The buds are dense and light green with patches of purple hues and orange hairs, accented by a blanket of crystal white, resinous trichomes. The aromas and flavors are very closely related with a sweet cherry scent on the nose and a palate rich in syrupy goodness and spices.

The Cherry Kola high is best described as body-centered, with strong feelings of euphoria and total relaxation. After just a couple of hits, you’ll feel all your pent-up tension release and you’ll sink deep into your chair. This phase lasts for hours, with lots of in and out tingles and bliss. The haziness of the high lasts throughout and only subsides when you are ready to fall asleep.

For medicinal purposes, Cherry Kola can be used to treat infinite symptoms and ailments. For example, it is a highly effective sedative so many users treat insomnia, stress, anxiety, bipolar, and mild cases of PTSD. The pain reliever in this strain is great for muscle spasms, cramps, nausea, headaches, and muscle tension. For those suffering from epilepsy or other ailments where CBD is a recommended treatment, be aware that this strain is not the one to turn to. Though it does have measurable CBD levels, it’s not enough to satisfy any medicinal needs in that regard.

While Cherry Kola is an easy enough plant to keep both indoors and out, it is unlikely to give you yields higher than 12 oz per square meter, which to most users falls in the average range. The flowering time is around 7 to 8 weeks and will grow to be about 2 and a half feet in height. It is resistant to many common molds and prefers warm climates to reach her full potential.

These buds aren’t widely available, so if you find yourself in the Pacific Northwest or anywhere near Sonoma County, California, be sure to locate some and give it a try. This nighttime, bubbly strain will have you feeling all the good tingles in no time. There have been some adverse effects reported including paranoia and itchy eyes, so just beware before diving in.