Sapphire Scout is a hybrid with serious designer flare. Conceived by Washington state-based breeders Vashon Velvet, the strain crosses True OG with the ever-popular Girl Scout Cookies. The result is a fruity, flavorful bud with an excellent balance between physical and mental effects. Sapphire Scout’s THC levels have been measured at between 17% and a staggering 30%.

Sapphire Scout stands out with flowers that are medium to large in size. These knotty, chunky buds have a roughly conical shape, tapering down from a broad base into a pointed tip. They also have a pronounced indica structure, with small, wide leaves that spiral tightly inward toward their central stems. The leaves themselves are a dark shade of forest green; true to its name, the strain also occasionally boasts patches of deep sapphire blue and purple. Vivid orange pistils provide a visual contrast while icy-looking white trichomes make these flowers very sticky and account for their psychoactivity.

When properly cured, flowers of Sapphire Scout carry a sweet, fruity aroma with discernible hints of berry. A second whiff may also pick up on some earthy musk. When broken apart or ground up, meanwhile, Sapphire Scout releases more of a hashy, incense-like odor, betraying the influence of grandparent strain OG Kush. Burning these flowers gives off a smooth and easily palatable smoke that leaves behind a somewhat toasted, nutty flavor that may be familiar to fans of Girl Scout Cookies.

The high from Sapphire Scout sets in relatively quickly, striking users with a headrush and some twitching around the temples and lower forehead. As this sensation becomes more familiar, though, smokers may find that their way of thinking has taken on a newly cerebral quality. Ideas or even inanimate objects that might not otherwise seem interesting can suddenly command full attention. Additionally, the consumer’s train of thought may seem to speed out of control in a kind of free word association. This mentally stimulated state can help properly motivated users to accomplish work on detailed or analytical tasks. It may also provoke creative thinking for those engaged in artistic projects or brainstorming sessions. If shared in social settings, Sapphire Scout may even spark free-flowing conversation, even when used among relative strangers.

As time passes, Sapphire Scout’s cerebral edge is softened a bit by strong physical effects. Users may feel themselves breathe more deeply and involuntarily relax any long-held muscular tension. For some, this strain’s combination of mental and bodily relaxation can lift normal inhibitions, enhancing activities like dancing, exercising, and even sex. Alternatively, the later phases of Sapphire Scout’s high can provide a soothing backdrop for low-key pursuits like board games or binge-watching. Because of its slow decline into relaxation, this strain is recommended for consumption beginning in late afternoon or evening.

Sapphire Scout’s versatile effects can have several uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its initial sense of concentration may help those with attention deficit disorders to work continuously on single tasks. The strain’s ability to improve mood may also temporarily improve the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. Sapphire Scout can also dull physical pain, whether it’s intense and related to chronic conditions like lupus or due to minor inflammation, as in the case of headaches or cramps. This bud’s ability to enhance appetite may even stoke hunger for those suffering from digestive issues or undergoing harsh treatments like chemotherapy. Because its early thoughtful effects can take a wrong turn into obsessive thinking in some conditions, Sapphire Scout is not recommended for patients who are prone to paranoia or panic.

Those looking to grow this attractive strain at home may have to do some detective work, as seeds are not available for purchase online. Instead, clippings may be taken from mature plants of the strain in order to cultivate genetically identical “clones.” These can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success typically calls for a humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Gardeners looking to highlight this strain’s eponymous sapphire hues, meanwhile, should expose their crops to nighttime temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees below average at or around the 8 week mark. Sapphire Scout flowers within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors.

Thanks to its crowd-pleasing aroma and well-balanced effects, Sapphire Scout makes an excellent all-purpose smoke. If spotted on dispensary shelves, it should be snatched up by indica and sativa fans alike.