Not to be confused with the common nickname for dangerous synthetic marijuana, K2 is a hybrid with prestigious genetics. Originally bred in Amsterdam, this strain is a cross between indica landrace Hindu Kush and notoriously sticky White Widow Its name is a reference to the second-highest mountain in the world, Chhogori, on the China-Pakistan border, and may point not only to the bud’s South Asian origin, but also to the heights of euphoria that it offers. This strain has a rich, fruity, flavor profile and a high that, while balanced, tends more towards relaxation. K2’s potency has been measured at between 16% and a staggering 29%.

While K2’s flowers may not be impressive in terms of size, they stand out with a very dense, compact structure that you’d expect of a predominantly indica strain. These buds range in shape from spade-like to pseudo-spherical. The tightly-coiled leaves are a mossy shade of green and are shot through with rust-colored pistils. Translucent white trichomes (likely passed on from parent strain White Widow) cover the inner and outer crevices of the flowers, accounting for their psychoactivity and giving them a particularly resinous texture.

When properly cured, flowers of K2 give off the earthy suggestion of damp soil and wood. There’s also a slight lemony tang lurking underneath. Meanwhile, breaking up or grinding the buds yields some very skunky notes. When burnt in a joint or a pipe, K2 has been said to give off a harsh, acrid smoke that can tickle the sinuses or cause eyes to water. On the exhale, this smoke has a mixed dank and lemon flavor. Finally, K2 is said to be a particularly pungent smoke; those toking outdoors or in public may want to think twice or take proper precautions.

K2 takes effect relatively quickly. Initial effects manifest as a throbbing pressure around the eyes and temples. Soon after, mental effects shuttle the smoker right to the apex of euphoria. Although the strain has a sativa onset, any effect on the mind is more emotionally impactful than cerebral. Smokers may experience some sensory distortion as well, with certain sights and sounds taking on unexpected new dimensions. These psychedelic qualities make K2 a great accompaniment to enjoying the great outdoors -- if not full-on mountain climbing, then at least some light hiking. Those expecting to find long-lasting focus with this bud may be disappointed, as it’s more likely to keep users easily distracted or suggestible. As the high wears on, K2’s indica side creeps in, conferring full-body relaxation. Limbs may feel thick and heavy, and movement may take some exertion; on the backend, this strain is better suited to spacing out indoors, with the mood set by a trippy movie or album. Because this strain can taper down into sedation and drowsiness, it may be more appropriate for evening or nighttime than for morning use.

K2 may have several applications for medical cannabis patients as well. It can serve as an effective means of relief from aches and pains, whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like lupus or arthritis. This strain can also provoke hunger, making it useful for patients who may have suffered loss of appetite due to disease or to treatments like chemotherapy. Psychologically speaking, K2 can temporarily take the edge off of the troubling symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. Because it does not often lead to the kind of intense, recursive thinking associated with paranoia, this strain may be a good choice for those who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Fortunately, several commercial breeders have made seeds of K2 available for sale online. Once obtained, it can be grown indoors or outdoors in a semi-humid climate with consistent daytime temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. K2 flowers within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors and is ready for harvest in September when grown outdoors; it typically offers a yield of about 37 to 46 grams (or 1.3 to 1.6 ounces) of flower per square foot of plant.

A great option whether you’re toking alone or with friends, K2 provides mellow, long-lasting relaxation. It’s a great all-purpose option for any hybrid aficionado.