Liberty Haze is a hybrid that has predominantly cerebral sativa effects. A cross between Mississippi-born G13 and sativa favorite Chemdawg, it is the brainchild of Barney’s Farm, a breeding operation that has also created flavor-focused strains like Tangerine Dream and Blue Cheese. With a dynamic, well-rounded taste and an energetic, it’s a great option for any number of situations. Liberty’s Haze’s psychoactivity has even earned it the honor of best strain overall in the 2011 High Times Cannabis Cup. Cannabis testing lab Analytical 360 has found flowers of Liberty Haze to have between 17% and a stunning 29% THC.

Liberty’s Haze’s flowers betray its sativa character with long, tapered buds that are somewhat reminiscent of traditional Thaistick. These buds have a loose and fluffy texture and the leaves are easily torn away from their central stems. Leaves themselves are a vibrant spring green and are set off by many orange to red hairs (which are actually pistils, meant to catch pollen from flowering male plants). Transparent trichomes ensure that the flowers are sticky and very potent, but leaves them without the silver sheen characteristic of other resinous strains. When buds of Liberty Haze are properly cured, they give off the relatively rare aroma of lime. On closer inspection, this citrus tang is grounded out by more dank, kushy base notes. This strain burns with a smooth smoke and tastes like lime on the exhale; smokers may also pick up on some subtle spicy and herbal flavors.

The effects of Liberty Haze take hold of users quickly in the form of a bracing head high. A steady pressure can be discerned around the eyes and temples. There is also a marked change in perception that may prove disorienting at first; smokers may suddenly find themselves some more observant or even hyper-aware of their surroundings. Once they’ve become accustomed to this altered state, though, users can point this energetic thoughtfulness in any direction they choose. Liberty Haze can provide the motivation you need to get out and accomplish some errands. Alternatively, it can help accomplish work, whether creative and artistic or more analytical and task-based. It may also be a great way to bond and relax with friends, whether you’re staying in or taking a hike on a beautiful day. A classic “wake and bake” strain, Liberty Haze is not recommended for use before bedtime. Its strong cerebral can be long-lasting, even for cannabis veterans.

Just as Liberty Haze has recreational uses that affect the mind, its medical applications are also mostly psychological (although its anti-inflammatory properties may confer some benefits for minor aches and pains or for an irritated stomach). Its sustained feeling of focus and acuity can be helpful for those with attention deficit disorders. For patients with mild to moderate stress and depression, it can open up channels of perception and mood, allowing the afflicted to feel more present and “in the moment.” Negative side effects include dry mouth. Because of its tendency to bring about recursive thinking and paranoia, Liberty Haze may also be not best choice for those who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Breeders Barney’s Farm have made seeds of Liberty Haze available for commercial sale. Like many sativas, this strain has hearty genetics that allow it to be successfully grown indoors or out -- although outdoor cultivation requires warm, Mediterranean-like climates. Its plants are somewhat tall (and can stretch during their flowering period), but their height can be managed if growers prune and trim branches early on in the vegetative stage. Parent strain Chemdawg was specifically selected for its quick maturation and Liberty Haze follows in kind, flowering within a fast 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors and ready for harvest in late September to early October when grown outdoors. This strain also offers growers an exceptionally high yield for their efforts: growers can expect about 60 grams (or 2 ounces) of flower per square foot of plant.

Liberty Haze’s enduring head buzz is a great way to keep a party rolling or to just enjoy some quality solo time. If you do share, though, bring enough for everyone, as its signature lime taste deserves to be spread and savored.