Black Magic (sometimes referred to as Black Magic Kush) is an indica-dominant strain with a vivid display of colorful leaves. Created by Andromeda Strains, this bud is a cross between Buckeye Purple and Andromeda’s own Cherry Sauce. It offers smokers a rich, earthy aroma and soothing, mostly physical effects. Black Magic’s THC content has been measured at between 15% and 22%.

Black Magic’s flowers are medium to large in size and adhere in thick, chunky globes. The internal structure of these buds seems to be a combination of indica and sativa influences, with a dense, tightly-packed core and wispy leaves that twist outward in a fringe-like way. The leaves themselves are bright yellowish green with occasional flashes of purple, ranging from lavender to indigo; these latter colors come about thanks to anthocyanin pigments, which are activated by cold weather during the growing process. Finally, translucent amber trichomes dot all visible surfaces of these flowers, giving them a slightly golden glow.

Once cured, flowers of Black Magic have a complex aroma marked by some earthy and nutty top notes. A deep whiff of the flowers may pick up on some underlying fruitiness as well. When these buds are ground up or broken apart, meanwhile, they give off an astringent tang of ammonia. Combusting Black Magic gives off a thick and somewhat harsh smoke that may tickle the sinuses and palate. On the exhale, this smoke mixes cocoa-like flavors with a chemical aftertaste.

The high from Black Magic mounts gradually and may not be felt until about 15 minutes after ingestion. Eventually, patient smokers may feel a constricted, headband-like feeling around the temples and lower forehead. Other facial tics like stimulation of the salivary glands and flushing in the cheeks are commonly reported. Once they become accustomed to these sensations, users can revel in a newly altered headspace. While an uptick in cerebral thinking and analytical focus is possible, Black Magic’s mental effects more often manifest as a kind of trippy sensory distortion in which external stimuli are warped and intensified. Smokers who are so inclined push these psychedelic properties to the max with some atmospheric music or a visually stimulating movie. Black Magic can also provide a great background buzz for daydreaming or creative brainstorming.

Within a few hours, Black Magic’s high becomes progressively more physical. Ripples of relaxation may radiate out through the core, undoing any knots of muscular tension and encouraging deep, easy breathing. At this point, consumers are apt to kick back in cozy surroundings as the strain’s body stone turns into total couchlock. Because of its slow dip into laziness and sedation, Black Magic is recommended for the afternoon through nighttime use.

Black Magic’s laidback effects can have a few different uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its consistently mellow mood may temporarily soothe the symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. The strain can also dull physical pain, whether it’s temporary and injury-related or due to chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Additionally, its tendency to bring about the munchies may serve as an appetite enhancement for those dealing with digestive issues or diminished hunger. In a totally relaxed setting, Black Magic may even work against insomnia, easing smokers into a deep sleep.

Unfortunately for those looking to grow Black Magic at home, seeds of the strain are not available online. Instead, clippings can be taken from mature, healthy plants of the strain; these can be propagated as genetically identical “clones.” The strain can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation requires a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures in the 70s (Fahrenheit). Gardeners who want to bring out the colorful potential Black Magic’s leaves should expose their plants to nighttime temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees below average, just before flowering begins. Black Magic reaches flowering maturity within about 9 weeks.

Thanks to its deeply relaxing physical high, indica lovers will easily fall under Black Magic’s spell. Its rich, fruity flavor profile is the perfect counterpart to its luxurious effects.