One of the most popular strains of all time, White Widow has become a household name in the cannabis community and beyond. This iconic cross of two landrace genetics is named after its tendency to produce massive amounts of resinous trichomes, resulting in a thick white coating around the bud.

White Widow is an award-winning hybrid strain renowned for its balance of euphoric highs and therapeutic benefits. This blog delves into the rich history, unique genetics, and notable effects of the White Widow strain, shedding light on why it continues to be a cherished and sought-after favorite among cannabis connoisseurs worldwide.

ORIGINS AND GENETICS

White Widow is the legendary creation of esteemed cannabis breeder Shantibaba under the banner of the Green House Seed Company. The strain originates from The Netherlands and was created sometime in the early 1990s. The White Widow weed strain boasts a lineage that includes a Brazilian Sativa landrace, contributing uplifting and energetic qualities, and a South Indian Indica landrace, known for its relaxing and body-stoning characteristics.

Through the strategic crossing of these two landrace strains, the original White Widow emerged as a slightly Sativa-dominant hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) beloved by consumers worldwide. According to some reports, the strain’s original name was "Arnhem’s Wonder" before Green House Seeds commercialized it in seed form and changed the name to White Widow.

Parent Strain #1: Manga Rosa - a Brazilian Sativa Landrace Cannabis Strain

Manga Rosa is a Sativa landrace cannabis strain native to Brazil that makes up one half of the legendary White Widow's genetic ancestry. Originating from Northeastern Brazil and believed to have been cultivated during the 1970s, Manga Rosa is renowned for its distinct aroma and flavor of mango, accompanied by sweet fruity and earthy notes.

This strain, with its intense and long-lasting clear cerebral high, is ideal for daytime use and promoting positive vibes. Manga Rosa has shown potential in addressing symptoms associated with depression and stress. Manga Rosa's unique attributes further enriches the strain's distinct flavor and potent effects.

Parent Strain #2: South Indian Indica Landrace Cannabis Strain

The South Indian Indica landrace cannabis strain is a 100% pure indica native to the South Indian region. This landrace has reached legendary status and is sought after by breeders globally for its robust growth and classic indica flavor. This original strain contributes typical flavors of sweet earthy herbs accented by a hint of black pepper on each smooth exhale, passing much of its flavor on to the White Widow strain.

Renowned for its calming and sedative effects, South Indian Indica is considered ideal for treating various conditions, including chronic pain, insomnia, muscle spasms, and depression. Its small, piecey forest green buds exhibit rich amber coloration and are adorned with sparse crystal trichomes.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF THE WHITE WIDOW STRAIN? 

Embracing its slightly Sativa-dominant lineage, the White Widow strain presents a balanced symphony of effects. Enthusiasts consistently highlight an energizing and talkative onset, fostering a creative ambiance after consumption. The Sativa influence takes center stage, delivering a clear-headed cerebral experience that translates into heightened happiness and euphoria.

As the journey continues, the Indica lineage of White Widow gently emerges, introducing a soothing and relaxing sensation that permeates the body. This harmonious blend of Sativa and Indica characteristics culminates in a truly well-rounded hybrid experience, making White Widow a cherished choice among cannabis connoisseurs seeking both mental invigoration and physical tranquility.

WHAT IS THE THC LEVEL OF WHITE WIDOW CANNABIS STRAIN? 

White Widow typically exhibits medium levels of THC, the main psychoactive compound enjoyed by cannabis enthusiasts. The THC levels of the White Widow strain tend to vary, but average around the high teens to low twenties. Some batches of White have tested close to 25% THC at peak resin production. The overall THC range for White Widow is somewhere between 12-25% THC.

WHAT ARE THE DOMINANT TERPENES IN WHITE WIDOW?

White Widow's unique flavor profile and sought-after effects can be partially attributed to its distinct terpene composition consisting primarily of myrcene, caryophyllene and pinene. Here is a brief overview of these three dominant terpenes and their contributions to White Widow.

Myrcene: This terpene imparts an earthy and musky aroma, often associated with sedative effects. Myrcene is believed to contribute to the relaxing and calming properties of White Widow.

Caryophyllene: Known for its spicy and peppery notes, caryophyllene is unique among terpenes as it can interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system and possesses a spicy, ammonia like scent. This interaction may contribute to anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in White Widow.

Pinene: White Widow also contains pinene, which has a distinct pine aroma. Pinene is thought to have bronchodilator effects, potentially aiding in respiratory function, and it may contribute to the strain's uplifting and energetic qualities.

WHAT IS THE FLAVOR AND AROMA OF WHITE WIDOW?

When smoking White Widow, users often experience a delightful flavor profile that combines sweetness and earthiness, with a subtle hint of spice. Additionally, when the buds are broken up, undertones of blueberry and fruit contribute to the strain's complex and appealing earthy taste.

The aromatic profile of White Widow is typically characterized by a sweet and earthy scent, further enhancing the overall sensory experience of this popular cannabis strain. This fruitiness and sweet earthiness is the perfect combination of the distinct aromatic profiles found in its two landrace parent strains.

WHITE WIDOW GROWING CHARACTERISTICS

White Widow exhibits versatile growing characteristics suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. While it performs exceptionally well in an almost Mediterranean climate, White Widow can also adapt to colder or warmer conditions.

When grown indoors, White Widow plants from cannabis seeds develop a robust structure, and as a mother plant, it yields offspring with desirable traits. This strain stands out for its loose and fluffy texture, setting it apart from many other marijuana strains.

White Widow is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it a favored choice among cultivators seeking a reliable and rewarding cannabis cultivation experience.

White Widow Seeds

For those looking to grow White Widow, strain-specific seeds can be obtained from different breeders and seed banks across Europe and North America, coming in packs of 3, 6, 12, 24, and beyond. Some growers suggest buying feminized seeds when growing White Widow. Make sure to buy seeds from a reputable source like Green House Seeds.

White Widow Strain Yield 

White Widow is known as a heavy yielder, producing as much as 500g/m² indoors and up to 600 grams per plant outdoors or in a greenhouse when grown optimally.

White Widow Flowering Time 

If growing White Widow plants outside, you will want to harvest by early October to late October latest. Indoors, White Widow's flowering stage to harvest typically lasts around 8 weeks, although many growers recommend letting the plant continue growing for another week or two to maximize the trichome production that White Widow has become famous for.

White Widow Strain Appearance 

The White Widow strain is a visual masterpiece, earning its name from a strikingly bright appearance. The densely packed buds are dark green and adorned with an abundance of snow-white crystals. Renowned for its one-of-a-kind bag appeal, White Widow's aesthetic beauty is globally recognized, making it a standout and sought-after cultivar among cannabis enthusiasts.

WHERE TO BUY WHITE WIDOW  

White Widow flower is widely accessible in legal dispensaries across North America, including the USA and Canada, and has gained substantial popularity in legalized countries worldwide. Make sure to buy from trusted, reputable legal dispensaries and delivery services like STIIIZY. 

WHAT ARE SIMILAR STRAINS TO WHITE WIDOW?

White Widow is a unique, highly sought-after cultivar. However, if you're unable to purchase this particular strain in the area that you live, there are several other 100% landrace sativa cultivars that offer similar effects and flavor profiles.

• White Walker: This cross of White Widow x Skywalker OG inherits a potent legacy characterized by its frosty appearance, relaxing effects and high THC content.
• White Rhino: This Indica dominant crossbreed of White Widow x an unknown North American indica delivers a powerful and tranquilizing experience with its dense, resinous buds.
• White Russian: A blend of White Widow and AK-47, offers a balanced and euphoric cannabis experience, marked by its sweet flavor profile and potent, uplifting effects.
• Blue Widow: A union of Blueberry x White Widow, this strain brings forth a delightful combination of fruity sweetness and potent hybrid effects, making it a well-rounded choice for enthusiasts.
• Black Widow: With the same lineage as White Widow (Brazilian Sativa x South Indian Indica), Black Widow is celebrated for its powerful, long-lasting effects and pungent aroma.

STIIIZY White Walker - Curated Live Resin

White Walker, a White Widow cross, is available in STIIIZY's rotating line-up of premium curated live resins. This cross of White Widow x Skywalker is a relaxing yet focused hybrid that provides a satisfying smoke with a piney finish.

STIIIZY's Curated Live Resin is crafted from high-quality cannabis harvested at the pinnacle of flavor and potency, then promptly flash-frozen to maintain the distinctive cannabinoid and terpene profiles of each strain.

FROM THE NETHERLANDS TO THE WORLD

The Netherlands boasts a rich legacy in cannabis breeding, with a renowned reputation for producing exceptional strains like White Widow. Some notable examples of cannabis strains bred in The Netherlands include:

• Amnesia Haze: This sativa-dominant strain is a Dutch classic, loved for its uplifting and energetic effects, coupled with a delightful citrusy flavor profile.
• Northern Lights: A beloved indica strain, Northern Lights originated in the Netherlands and is cherished for its relaxing and euphoric qualities.
• Power Plant: Known for its high yields and potent sativa effects, Power Plant is another Dutch creation that has gained popularity for its energetic and uplifting highs.
• AK-47: Despite its name suggesting otherwise, AK-47 is a well-known Dutch hybrid strain appreciated for its balanced effects and sweet, earthy flavors.

Dutch coffee shops are establishments in the Netherlands where the sale and consumption of cannabis for recreational use are tolerated under certain regulations. These venues have played a pivotal role in the popularization of cannabis strains like White Widow and others.

AN ICON THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

White Widow emerges as an enduring icon that has transcended multiple generations of cannabis history. Its journey to acclaim includes not only the coveted High Times Cannabis Cup in 1995 but also triumphs at the Highlife Cup and various other competitions. These accolades are a testament to the strain's exceptional genetics, cultivation prowess, and consistent high quality.

This strain's journey to global prominence and worldwide recognition is an inspiring testament to its unwavering popularity. With a genetic lineage intertwining the uplifting Brazilian Manga Rosa and the calming South Indian Indica, White Widow has become synonymous with a harmonious blend of effects and a unique trichome-covered appearance.

This strain has etched its mark as a timeless and award-winning emblem in the ever-evolving saga of cannabis culture, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to captivate cannabis enthusiasts around the world to this day.