While British Columbia has long been fertile ground for cannabis production, Eastern Canada isn’t often thought of as a weed hotspot. This potent strain stands to change that. Quebec Gold confers an even balance of mental and physical effects along with a decidedly funky aroma. It’s a cross between two potent indicas: M-39 and another Canadian strain appropriately named Freezeland. This bud’s THC content has been measured at between 18% and 26%.

Quebec Gold’s medium to large flowers are visually very impressive, adhering in a distinctly conical formation. These buds have a densely-packed structure that’s typical of many other indica-inflected strains. The tightly-coiled leaves are a vibrant shade of yellowish green, giving credence to this precious bud’s name. Amber-colored trichomes coat the compact flowers, giving them a golden hue and contributing to their potency.

When properly cured, Quebec Gold’s flowers have a strong, stinky pungency. Although there’s a slight lemony scent underneath, skunk and diesel notes predominate. Grinding up intensifies these odors and also reveals a cheesy tang. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Quebec Gold burns with an acrid smoke that’s likely to tickle the palate and cause and coughing fit. This harsh smoke carries citrus and skunk flavors on the exhale.

Quebec Gold is a definite creeper, with a high that mounts progressively until the smoker is struck by its vibrant effects. Once they do detect its presence, consumers tend to pick up on physical symptoms like an increased blood pressure around the temples and forehead, as well as a slight flush in the cheeks. Mentally, the strain reveals itself (at least at first) with a new kind of thinking, in which thoughts and ideas may flow from one to another via connections that might not be otherwise apparent to the user. For some, Quebec Gold may also impart a kind of subtle, uplifted mood that expels any prior stresses or preoccupations, making it a great way to unwind after a long workday, especially when paired with a hot bath or a glass of wine. Within an hour or so, this bud’s formidable indica lineage kicks in with relaxation that spreads through the limbs and core. Any earlier motivation may quickly evaporate and give way to a kind of lazy, dreamy mindset that’s great for socializing but not as good for getting work done. This soothing body high becomes gradually stronger -- especially if a user’s dosage is increased -- and may cause the sensation of floating or becoming depersonalized from one’s body. While deeply sedative for some, such psychedelic sensations may be disorienting for those who are prone to panic or have a low THC tolerance. In Quebec Gold’s later stages, prepare for some full-on couch-lock and have some entertainment within reach: a binge-watching session or a mellow playlist will do just fine. Because it starts off strong but melts into a laid back tranquility, Quebec Gold is recommended for use between late afternoon and early evening.

Quebec Gold’s multilayered high may have applications for medical cannabis patients as well. Its indica buzz can take the edge off of mild to moderate cases of stress and depression, while its sativa focus may enable concentration for those with attention deficit disorder. Physiologically speaking, this bud may dull disease-related pain as well as everyday maladies like headaches. Because its early effects include strong, recursive patterns of thinking, Quebec Gold may not be the best choice for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia.

Fortunately for home growers, seeds of this unique strain are available for sale online. Once obtained, it can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor cultivation calls for a humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These crops grow short and bushy with strong sideways-growing branches and can be easily accommodated indoors. Quebec Gold flowers within 7 to 8 weeks when grown indoors and offers a very high yield of flowers at maturity.

A gem of North American cannabis breeding, Quebec Gold makes a great smoke for indica and sativa lovers alike. The hybrid makes for good times whether you’re hanging alone or lounging with some like minded friends.