The Ox is a beastly hybrid created by prolific breeders Rare Dankness. It is a cross between Bubba Kush and Rare Dankness’ own Stone Mountain. While consumers are first struck by this strain’s impressive bag appeal and complex flavor, it is also valued for its deeply relaxing effects. This strain’s THC content has been measured at between 15% and 20%. It can also have high levels of the therapeutic cannabinoid CBD.

The Ox sets itself apart with medium-sized flowers that hold a tapered, pinecone-like formation. The buds looks more like hops than like cannabis flowers, with leaves that neatly overlap in almost geometrical rows. The leaves themselves are a vivid shade of spring green and have relatively few hairy pistils. Finally, a dusting of crystalline white trichomes makes The Ox very potent and very sticky to the touch.

This bud’s aroma is dominated by a sweet berry scent. Hanging out underneath is the surprising odor of coffee, accented by some earthy notes of cocoa. Meanwhile, grinding up these odd-looking buds yields the odor of spice and hash. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, The Ox burns with a very smooth smoke that tastes sweet on the inhale. On the exhale, this smoke tastes fruity and a bit nutty.

The Ox is a creeper -- several minutes after toking, consumers may be hit by the sensation of their thoughts moving more quickly, jumping around in free association. This stimulated mental quality comes in tandem with a physical tingle that spreads through the face as well as down through the core and limbs. Users who are already relaxed may feel themselves sinking into their surroundings with ease. Meanwhile, those who are active or overstimulated by the bud’s cerebral energy can embrace this nascent relaxation and take a load off in the closest comfortable surroundings. Within an hour or so, The Ox’s stimulation tends to dissolves into a soothing, laid-back vibe. Smokers are typically still able to maintain a clear head and think analytically if need be, but they’re more likely to do so while lounging on the couch. The Ox can also warp the smoker’s sensory perception, creating the illusion of time passing more slowly or of three-dimensional depth becoming flattened out. Such psychedelic effects can be a welcome touch in party settings, where they can be enhanced by moody music or visually-engaging movies. As time passes or as dosage is increased, this bud’s feeling of body melt begins to intensify, relieving any lingering muscular tension and pushing the outside world to the margins. At this point, relaxed smokers may not be willing to do much more than embark on a long binge-watching session. Because of its slow, relaxing properties, The Ox is best enjoyed later in the afternoon or evening when it can be fully savored.

Seeds of The Ox are available online for home growers, although it can a finicky plant and may not be the best choice for newcomers to cultivation. Once obtained, it can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success calls for a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The strain’s plants tend to be short and bushy, with strong lateral branching. The Ox flowers within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors, although it offers a below average yield at harvest time.

The Ox offers all the relaxation of an indica with the focused, clear-eyed mental engagement of a sativa. The strain’s unique, well-balanced flavor also makes it a must-try for cannabis connoisseurs.