Kush

It is said that strains with the word “Kush” in their name first appeared in the US in 1970s. Today, both recreational users and patients swear on dozens of Kush-based varieties. Genetic traces of the original Kush varieties can be found today in hybrids that belong among the most popular ones on the North American and European markets, including Hindu Kush, Critical Kush, OG Kush, Purple Afghan Kush and countless others.

Kush varieties tend to be indica-dominant and are characterized by the following properties.

Appearance, aroma and taste

Kush strains are typically squat and lower. Their leaves and colas (central buds) are mostly dark green, sometimes even with slight purple shades. Buds tend to be lush, rich and coated with trichomes. Pistil colors can range from deep orange to a darker, rusty color.

Kush varieties may have very complex aromatic profiles, mixing everything from earthy, flowery or pine shades with more intense aromas, such as peppery, citrus or gassy. As for their flavor, the smoke and vapors usually taste earthy and flowery; they may also mix more complex flavors, such as berries or citruses.

Effects

Kush strains in general have strong sedative effects coupled with strong euphoria. Some varieties contain up to around 20% THC, meaning that they are really strong. That is why some of the users may have difficulties getting up from a couch, and at the same time they are also euphoric and happy.

Kush hybrids and crossbreeding

As a result of long-term crossbreeding and subsequent creation of countless hybrids, it is clear that all Kush varieties do not possess the same characteristics. That is because experienced growers experiment with a whole range of different varieties, creating completely new strains with unique features. For example, they may cross an original Kush with a strong sativa, producing a strain that boasts the physical properties of the Kush, with its psychological effects being closer to sativa.