Not to be confused with the THC-infused beer concoction of the same name, Green Dragon is a pure indica with strong, relaxing effects. The brainchild of breeder Master Thai, who is also responsible for the popular Tahoe genetic line, this strain is a cross between an Afghani indica landrace and resinous Turkish Gummy. With a totally indica genetic backbone, Green Dragon promises smokers therapeutic and thorough sedation, alongside a bouquet of incense and spice. Cannabis testing lab Analytical 360 has found flowers of Green Dragon to have between 12% and 16% THC.

Green Dragon sets itself apart with particularly large flowers. The chunky buds adhere to a roughly spherical shape and have the dense structure usually associated with other indica strains -- the tightly-coiled leaves curl inward toward their central stems, forming a solid nugget. The leaves themselves are a mossy green and some phenotypes even boast flashes of purple. These latter hues are due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments in the bud’s genetics that trigger colorful shades when activated by cold weather during the growing process. Finally, translucent white trichomes cover the outer surfaces and inner nooks and crannies of Green Dragon’s flowers, giving them an icy-looking sheen.

Green Dragon burst with a sweet aroma when properly cured. This scent can be so cloying as to verge on dank and fermented. Hanging out underneath are some woodsy base notes of pine.

Meanwhile, grinding up the strain’s thick flowers releases a peppery, hashy odor, thanks to the influence of parent strain Afghani. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Green Dragon burns with an acrid smoke that can tickle the palate and make smokers’ eyes water. On the exhale, this smoke tastes lightly herbal with a touch of pine freshness. Those consuming this bud in public may want to take some precautions, as its odor can carry for quite a distance.

Given its indica nature, Green Dragon’s high kicks in relatively quickly. Shortly after savoring (or coughing up) the strain’s rich smoke, consumers may feel a concerted pressure around the temples and eyes. This sensation soon melts into a holistic feeling of full-body relaxation. Users may notice a dissipation in any lingering muscular tension and may find themselves able to breathe more deeply and easily. Some mental effects can be detected in the form of sensory distortion -- users may notice that their depth perception is slightly off or that certain sights and sounds take on a new intensity. Other cognitive sensations include a dreamy, hazy mindset that’s well-suited to daydreaming and brainstorming but not too efficiently executing complicated, work-related tasks. For the most part, though, Green Dragon takes action on the user’s body, sending waves of painkilling sedation down through the neck and radiating out through the spine and core. Smokers become easily suggestible and prone to seeking horizontal refuge on the closest comfortable couch. As the high progresses, couchlock and sleep both become increasingly likely. It should come as no surprise, then, that Green Dragon is best consumed at night.

Green Dragon’s soothing properties can also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. Its easygoing mood can temporarily improve the symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. Its ability to relax the body can also take care of aches and pains, whether they’re chronic and disease-related, or minor, like headaches. As noted, Green Dragon can even induce sleep, serving as a potent antidote to insomnia. Because it isn’t likely to send the user into obsessive, recursive thinking patterns, Green Dragon is a good option for patients who have a low THC tolerance or who are prone to panic and paranoia.

Fortunately for home growers, Master Thai has made seeds of Green Dragon available online. Once obtained, it can grown indoors or out, although outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plants tend to grow short and bushy, and growers should keep an eye out for broad fan leaves that might prevent nutrients and light from reaching low-growing flowering nodes. Green Dragon flowers within 7 to 8 weeks when grown indoors and offers growers a high yield for their efforts.

Green Dragon’s lazy, friendly vibes are great for sharing with like-minded friends over some drinks or a binge-watching session. This is one sleepy dragon that’s perfectly safe to chase.