Superstar is a sativa-leaning hybrid that offers mentally stimulating effects. The creation of breeders Exotic Genetix, it is a cross between their own proprietary strains Supernatural and Starfighter. With psychoactive potency and some serious bag appeal to match, Superstar has a THC content measured at between 17% and 23%.

Superstar lives up to its name with large, solid flowers that cling together in chunky, spade-like shapes. These buds have a decidedly indica internal structure, with a dense core composed of wide, tightly-coiled leaves. These leaves themselves are a pale shade of sage green and are shot through with curly yellow and brown pistils. Finally, a sprinkling of translucent white trichomes makes these flowers very sticky and hard to break up without a grinder.

Flowers of Superstar give off a pleasant citrus aroma that may have some notes of orange and berry. A second whiff may detect some woodsy, earthy scents as well. When these buds are ground up, meanwhile, they can give off more of a herbal odor, reminiscent of tea. Combusting Superstar’s flowers in a pipe or a joint causes them to burn with a smooth, fragrant smoke that’s typically easy on the palate. On the exhale, this smoke tastes fruity and floral.

The high from Superstar takes effect fairly quickly, starting off with a concerted pressure around around the cheekbones and temples. Some consumers may also experience flushing in the cheeks or an increase in salivation. Effects tend to take hold in the head at first, elevating the smoker’s thought to a cerebral plane in which otherwise unremarkable concepts may seem to take on a new complexity or fascination. Users may also find their thoughts bouncing around in subconscious free association. As a result, Superstar in its early stages can help properly motivated smokers to focus on detailed and analytical tasks. On the other hand, those who aren’t as inclined toward productivity can enjoy the strain’s mental buzz as an enhancement to otherwise boring activities like doing the laundry or dishes.

After about an hour, Superstar’s bodily effects begin to take over. The high’s initial mental edge may begin to dissolve into distraction as users feel themselves physically relax, breathing more deeply and easily. At this stage, sensory changes like slight auditory distortions or feelings of of time dilation may set in; these can be maximized by turning on some spacey music or a trippy movie. This dreamy, sedated mood notwithstanding, Superstar still leaves smokers’ minds lucid and they may still be able to engage in conversation or follow through with basic tasks. If dosage is increased, however, couch-lock becomes more and more likely, especially for those who are already sleepy. Because of its gradual dip in energy levels, Superstar is recommended for afternoon or early evening enjoyment.

Superstar’s heady effects can have several uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its ability to induce focus can help those with attention deficit disorders to concentrate on one task at a time. Additionally, its mood-boosting properties can temporarily soothe the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. Physical benefits include a relief from inflammation-related discomforts like nausea, headaches, and cramps. For users who are sufficiently relaxed, high enough doses of the strain may even bring on sleep, serving as an antidote to insomnia. Because of its relatively high risks of paranoia and recursive thinking, however, Superstar is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Those looking to grow Superstar at home may be disappointed to learn that seeds of the strain are not available for sale online. Instead, prospective growers should obtain clippings of the strain that can be grown as “clones.” These may thrive indoors or out, although outdoors success usually requires a humid climate with daytime temperatures in the 70s (Fahrenheit). Plants have a short, squat stature with strong lateral branching patterns. Superstar typically flowers within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors.

With a long-lasting buzz that melts into mellow sedation, Superstar is a versatile strain that may appeal to both indica and sativa lovers. It’s enjoyable whether toked alone or shared with friends.