Sour Sunset is an indica-heavy hybrid with the kind of slow-burning relaxation that may make you feel like you’re watching a sunset on the beach. The strain is a cross between perennial favorite Sour Diesel and the flavor-focused Secret Sherbert. The result is a tangy, almost tropical bud that starts off with a mild head buzz and ends with a thorough body high. Sour Sunset has been found to have high levels of THC, measured at between 18% and 24%.

Sour Sunset is marked by its small to medium-sized flowers that maintain a spindly, elongated formation, somewhat like miniature cypress trees. The buds tend to have a sativa-inflected structure, with large and loose leaves that spiral outward from their central stems. The leaves themselves are a mossy green and are twisted through with vibrant red pistils. Finally, the flowers are dotted with cloudy, translucent white trichomes that make the buds very hard to break up by hand.

When they’re properly cured, the predominant scent that wafts up from these flowers is a sour citrus tang. There’s also an astringent, gasoline-like odor hanging out underneath. Grinding up the bud, meanwhile, releases an intense skunkiness. When Sour Sunset is burnt, it gives off an acrid smoke that may tickle the sinuses and palate. Nevertheless, this smoke tastes fruity and sweet on the exhale.

Like many other indica-dominant strains, Sour Sunset is something of a creeper and may not set in until 10 or 15 minutes after it is ingested. At first, it can exert an increase in blood pressure, resulting in a discernible feeling of pressure behind the eyes. It can also bring about a flushing in the cheeks and a slight increase in salivation. Not long after, users may be struck by an uptick in cerebral thinking, with certain ideas or concepts taking on a new intensity or dimension. Smokers may also feel their thoughts jumping from one to the next in free association. This mental stimulation doesn’t lang for long, though, as it eventually melts into a deep, almost hypnotic feeling of relaxation. A tingle may set into the limbs and core, sending any consumers who may be standing headed for the closest comfortable surface on which to stretch out. While conversation and coherent thinking are still possible at this point, smokers may feel less motivated to be productive and can instead pass the time enjoying some free-flowing conversation with like-minded friends. Because of the combination of physical and mental stimulation that comes through on its latter, Sour Sunset can also be a good way to enhance activities that call for complex coordination -- including exercising, gaming, and, given the right company, even sex. If the dosage is increased, this strain can lead to couchlock, rendering users happily immobilized. Because it steps down from a buzzy mindset into a more lazy vibe, Sour Sunset is recommended for consumption between late afternoon and evening.

Sour Sunset can also have some applications for medical cannabis patients. Its initially tuned-in mindset is a good way for those with attention deficit disorders to stay focused on single tasks. Additionally, its mood-boosting properties can temporarily soothe mild to moderate stress and depression. Sour Sunset can also dull physical pain, whether it’s mild and temporary or serious and chronic. The same mechanism that creates a feeling of pressure around the temples and forehead can even relieve the pain associated with eye conditions like cataracts. Because its onset can bring some intense and disoriented feelings of mind race, Sour Sunset is not recommended for those who are prone to panic or paranoia.

Seeds of Sour Sunset are not available for purchase online. Instead, prospective home growers should seek out clippings from mature, healthy plants that can be grown as genetically identical “clones.” These clones can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success requires a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Sour Sunset’s plants tend to grow tall and branchy and may call for some early pruning in order to be accommodated in tight indoor spaces. This strain flower within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors.

Thanks to its high levels of mental engagement, Sour Sunset is a great bud for both solo and social occasions. It’s an excellent choice for indica lovers who are also looking for a bit of a head high.