Living in California certainly comes with its perks, especially when enjoying the freedom of legal recreational and medical marijuana use for those 21 and over. Indeed, Golden State residents can legally possess just over an ounce (28 grams) of marijuana. Yet, this freedom can be both a blessing and a curse when faced with an almost bewildering array of cannabis strains.
From the heady highs of sativa to the relaxing calm of indica, and a myriad of flavor profiles and THC levels in between, the options can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a curious newcomer to the world of cannabis or a seasoned aficionado looking for something fresh, knowing which strains are currently making waves can be incredibly helpful.
So, buckle up because we’re about to dive into the top five most popular and best-selling cannabis strains in California for 2023. These are the strains that have captured the public’s imagination, and for good reason. From their unique characteristics to their specific effects, we’ll give you the lowdown on what makes these strains the talk of the town. Stay tuned!
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Some of the top strains in California right now include Jet Fuel Gelato, Hendrix, Lemonchello, Birthday Cake, and Space Train.
- When picking out strains, you should consider the cannabinoid type, the effects, and the terpene profile.
- Some of the best-selling cannabis strains in California at this time include Pipe Dream, Cereal Milk, and Snow Caps.
Check out these great strains for getting a good night’s sleep!
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain For You?
The world of cannabis is incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of strains that produce different effects, flavors, and aromas. Choosing the right strain can be a daunting task, especially for those new to cannabis. Here are some key factors to consider when making your choice.
Cannabinoid Type and Content
The two primary cannabinoids in cannabis are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). THC is known for its psychoactive effects, providing a cerebral high, while CBD is non-psychoactive and is known for its medicinal benefits, like reducing inflammation. The ratio of THC to CBD in a strain plays a significant role in determining its effects and potency. Legal dispensaries usually provide a cannabinoid potency label, which can help you identify the chemotype of the strain. Knowing what you’re looking for—whether it’s relief from insomnia, chronic pain, or simply a recreational high—can guide you in choosing a strain with the right balance of THC and CBD.
Type of Effects (Indica/Sativa/Hybrid)
Cannabis strains are generally categorized into three types: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects, often leading to what is known as “couch-lock.” They are ideal for stress relief and sleep aid. Sativa strains, on the other hand, are more energizing and mentally stimulating, making them suitable for activities that require creativity or social interaction. Hybrids offer a mix of both worlds, providing a balanced experience. Your choice between Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for.
Terpene Profile and Flavor
Terpenes are chemical compounds responsible for the aroma and flavor of a cannabis strain. They also contribute to the strain’s overall effects. For instance, some terpenes are known for their relaxing effects, while others are uplifting. Being aware of the terpene profile can help you find a strain that not only tastes and smells the way you like but also produces the effects you desire. Many users have specific terpene profiles they enjoy, and knowing yours can help you find strains that appeal to your preferences.
Best Weed Strains in California
Now that we’ve established the basics of choosing your favorite strains, here are some of the best weed strains you can buy in California.
1. Jet Fuel Gelato
First, we have Jet Fuel Gelato, specifically from West Coast Treez. This is a hybrid indica and sativa strain made by crossing two other fuel-inspired cannabis strains.
It features interesting flavors characterized by sweetness, earthiness, and a distinct hint of fuel, along with exceedingly high THC content. It is also one of the most highly-regarded and best weed strains in California 2022.
Jet Fuel Gelato Strain Appearance
Jet Fuel Gelato buds tend to be of fairly average size and somewhat rounded as well, although some may be slightly more elongated.
These buds feature a beautiful combination of various hues of green, with an overall light appearance, combined with a healthy helping of orange pistols and a solid layer of thick white trichomes, which is where all of that THC is contained.
Jet Fuel Gelato Strain Genetics
Jet Fuel Gelato is a somewhat balanced hybrid cannabis strain that is a cross between Jet Fuel and High Octane. High Octane is a cross between Octane and Sunset Sherbert. Jet Fuel is a cross between East Coast Sour Diesel and SFV OG Kush.
THC/CBD Content
Jet Fuel Gelato can contain anywhere between 21% and 28% THC, with the specific strain that we have linked to here today containing 27% THC.
As you can probably tell, that is at the higher end of the spectrum, with 27% THC being extremely potent.
Therefore, this strain is more than ideal for seasoned veterans who have a high THC tolerance, although beginner cannabis consumers should exercise caution and start with just a few hits.
Jet Fuel Gelato Strain Terpenes
The three most dominant terpenes found in Jet Fuel Gelato are limonene, pinene, and caryophyllene.
Jet Fuel Gelato Strain Effects
Although this is a hybrid strain, the sativa side of things really seems to stick out, with users noting effects such as euphoria, focus, creativity, and energy, along with a bit of relaxation.
The high here should be mostly cerebral and quite uplifting as well, although a couple of hours after consuming it, the indica side of things might take over and allow you to relax and enjoy the rest of your day in peaceful bliss.
Jet Fuel Gelato Strain Reported Flavors
In terms of the flavors, Jet Fuel Gelato is very sweet and aromatic, combined with a distinct earthiness and a hint of fuel or gasoline. The flavor profile here is very complex yet also enjoyable.
Where to Buy Jet Fuel Gelato
If you are looking to purchase some Jet Fuel Gelato, then there is no better place than right here at CanEx!
Need something that will help boost your energy? Check out these uplifting strains!
2. Lemonchello
Next on the list, we have Lemonchello, which is also called Limoncello. This strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid strain that features insanely high THC levels, an enjoyable citrus flavor profile, and awesome uplifting and energizing effects.
Lemonchello Strain Appearance
The buds of this strain are quite large, airy, and light. They are fairly elongated and somewhat shaped like spades or shovelheads.
Lemoncello buds feature a bright lime green coloration with some darker green accents, combined with some fiery red or orange hairs and a fairly healthy layer of white trichomes. It’s certainly quite the attractive-looking bud.
Lemonchello Strain Genetics
Lemonchello is a sativa-dominant strain, roughly 80% sativa. It is a cross between Cherry Pie and The Original Lemonade. Cherry Pie is a cross between Grandaddy Purple and F1 Durb, with The Original Lemonade being a cross between Lemon OG and Gorilla Haze.
THC/CBD Content
This strain is well known for containing over 25% THC on average, with the specific product we have linked to here containing nearly 30% THC.
30% THC is no joke, and it makes this strain one of the most potent ones out there by far. Therefore, it is ideal for people looking to venture into high-THC strains, but caution is always recommended.
Lemonchello Strain Terpenes
Some of the most dominant terpenes contained in this strain include pinene, caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene.
Lemonchello Strain Effects
Many people love the Lemonchello strain because its sativa-dominant nature characterizes its effects. This strain should provide you with a great uplifting and creative feeling, with some even saying that it is very energizing.
It’s a fantastic daytime strain that works well for people who love high THC content and want to feel an extremely creative, giggly, and uplifting cerebral high but don’t want to feel overly sedated or tired.
Unlike indica strains, which produce a strong body high, it produces primarily a cerebral high, although Lemonchello might give you a bit of a body buzz, too.
Lemonchello Strain Reported Flavors
As you can tell by the name, this strain features a very citrus-forward flavor profile characterized by flavors such as lemon, lime, and orange, along with a hint of earthiness.
Where to Buy Lemonchello
If you are looking to buy some Lemonchello, our CanEx delivery service has you covered!
3. Space Train
If you are looking for a sativa strain that features over 30% THC, and it should get you high enough to send you to the moon and back, then Space Train is a strain worth checking out. It might just be one of the most potent strains out there.
Space Train Strain Appearance
What is interesting about this strain is that although it might not look like anything super special, it’s as potent and flavorful as any other strain out there.
It features relatively small and dense unassuming nugs that feature several hues of green and is quite dark in color.
It also has a limited amount of orange pistils combined with a healthy helping of white trichomes. It may not look like the most beautiful bud around, but we guarantee that if you try it, you’ll fall in love with it.
Space Train Strain Genetics
The genetics of Space Train are very mysterious, but as far as we can tell, this is a sativa dominant hybrid made by crossing X-Wing OG with Trainwreck, with X-Wing being a Skywalker OG phenotype and Trainwreck being a cross between Mexican and Thai sativas with an Afghani Indica.
THC/CBD Content
Space Train contains, on average, well over 25% THC. The specific strain we’re talking about today has nearly 32% THC.
As far as cannabis flower goes, that is about as potent as it gets, and great caution is therefore recommended for everybody. A few hits of this strain should be enough to knock anybody’s socks off.
Space Train Strain Terpenes
Based on the parent strains, it is safe to assume that some of the dominant terpenes contained in this string are terpinolene, myrcene, and pinene.
Space Train Strain Effects
This is a heavily sativa-dominant strain, and its effects reflect this perfectly. This is a strain that produces an extremely strong cerebral high characterized by feelings of great euphoria, happiness, creativity, and a general uplifting feeling.
It’s a fantastic daytime strain to check out if you need something that will put a pep in your step without knocking you out for the count. It is an extremely cerebral high. However, be sure to take it slow because it hits like a brick.
Space Train Strain Reported Flavors
With Space Train, you can expect a relatively complex flavor profile with flavors of spice, earth, sweetness, and even a hint of citrus.
Where to Buy Space Train
CanEx is always your best bet when it comes to purchasing Space Train. Don’t know how to find high-quality weed? Check out this guide!
4. Birthday Cake
If you’re on the hunt for a fairly potent cannabis strain that has a sweet and spicy flavor profile, then this Birthday Cake strain might be right for you.
Birthday Cake Strain Appearance
Birthday Cake features a very light and airy appearance, with nugs that you can easily squeeze together. The buds are also fairly elongated, lumpy, and irregularly shaped.
Here, you will notice a relatively light green appearance, combined with darker accents, specifically darker green sugar leaves, combined with so many orange hairs that the bud almost looks more orange than green, and a relatively thick layer of white trichomes along the exterior.
Birthday Cake Strain Genetics
The Birthday Cake strain is a somewhat balanced hybrid, often being more sativa-dominant than indica, although it may depend on the exact specimen in question. The two parent strains of Birthday Cake are Girl Scout Cookies and Cherry Pie.
THC/CBD Content
Although the CBD content of this strain is negligible, it routinely contains over 26% THC. As you can tell, all of the strains we are looking at today feature very high THC levels.
Even though a THC level of 26% may be more ideal for seasoned commissars than for beginners, beginners can still take advantage of it.
After all, the more THC a strain has, the less of it you have to consume to feel the high.
Birthday Cake Strain Terpenes
Some of the most dominant terpenes contained in this strain include caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene.
Birthday Cake Strain Effects
This is a sativa-dominant strain, which means that you can expect a high characterized by cerebral feelings of euphoria, happiness, and general elation. You might also feel a bit talkative.
Many people also like this strain because they say it helps them relieve a lot of stress, mainly because it’s quite uplifting in nature.
However, the indica side of things may also take effect at some point, especially if you consume enough of it, as many people note that this is a very bodily and mentally relaxing strain.
Birthday Cake Strain Reported Flavors
The Birthday Cake strain is very interesting as it features flavors reminiscent of vanilla, sweet fruitiness, and butter. It really does have a sweet and cake-like flavor.
Where to Buy Birthday Cake
If it happens to be your birthday and you need a sweet treat, Birthday Cake can always be found right here at CanEx!
5. Hendrix Strain
Named after the late-great Jimi Hendrix, the Hendrix strain is always a go-to option for beginners and pros alike.
Hendrix Strain Appearance
Here, you’ll find some relatively round and dense buds that are difficult to squeeze together, in combination with a light green appearance.
The relatively light green buds have some darker accents, which stand out thanks to the orange pistols and white trichomes along the exterior. It might not look special, but it produces some amazing effects.
Hendrix Strain Genetics
It is believed that the Hendrix strain is a cross between Black Cherry Soda, Headband, and Jack Herer.
THC/CBD Content
You can expect the Jimi Hendrix strain to contain anywhere between 16% and 22% THC, therefore making it fairly moderate in potency.
If there is one strain on the list here today that is ideal for beginners, it is this one. It’s one of the only strains on the list that won’t hit you like a brick.
Hendrix Strain Terpenes
It is thought that the most dominant terpenes contained in the Jimi Hendrix strain include pinene, myrcene, and caryophyllene.
Hendrix Strain Effects
The Jimi Hendrix strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid, and just like the person it was named after, it is extremely uplifting, creative, and energetic. It also tends to produce feelings of focus and concentration, especially in lower doses.
Hendrix Strain Reported Flavors
Some of the most dominant flavors in the Jimi Hendrix strain include sweet lemons, citrus, pine, and earthiness. This was also considered one of California’s best weed strains of 2020.
Where to Buy the Hendrix Strain
Buying the Hendrix strain is easier said than done! This is an extremely rare strain because of how unique it is. But, if you’re looking for a similar mild yet delicious sativa to take during the day, this Cherry Bing flower might just be what you need!
Final Thoughts
California is a hub for cannabis innovation, offering a diverse range of top-tier strains for every type of user. Whether you’re seeking medical relief, creative inspiration, or simple relaxation, you’ll find a strain that fits your needs in the Golden State. As the cannabis industry evolves, California sets the standard for quality and variety. Don’t miss the chance to explore this rich cannabis culture when you’re in the state; you’re sure to find a strain that exceeds your expectations.
California Cannabis Strains: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to your most frequently asked questions about California cannabis strains.
What Are the Top 5 Strains of Weed?
The top five strains at this time are Jet Fuel Gelato, Hendrix, Lemonchello, Birthday Cake, and Space Train.
What is the Best-Selling Weed in California?
At the time of writing, the best-selling strain across the state is Pipe Dream.
What Is Some Top Shelf Weed?
If you want top-shelf weed, we recommend Jet Fuel Gelato, Lemonchello, and Space Train.
