If you were traumatized by Stephen King’s It and its killer clown villain, the name of this strain might set you off. Not to worry, though, as the CBD hybrid Pennywise is more likely to help you relax than it is to cause a panic attack. Pennywise is a mostly-indica strain created by Subcool’s The Dank Seeds as a cross between landrace-derived Harlequin and TGA’s own Jack the Ripper. Harlequin imparts a high CBD content, making this a soothing and therapeutic bud. Its THC content has been measured at between 20%.

When trimmed, flowers of Pennywise tend to be small to medium in size and adhere to chunky, irregular-sized formations. The buds mostly have an indica-inflected structure, with a dense and compact center but with some phenotypes shows off loose, more sativa-inflected leaves. The leaves themselves are a pale sea green and are twisted through with brown and orange pistils. A high volume of cloudy white trichomes coats these already-colorful flowers, adding a pale white sheen.

When properly cured, flowers of Pennywise have a primarily dank, earthy scent, similar to damp soil. Closer inspection reveals some woody undertones, including some piney accents. Grinding up the buds, meanwhile, gives off more of a spicy, hashy kick. When combusted, Pennywise burns with a harsh, thick smoke and may induce a coughing fit. This smoke tastes sour and peppery on the exhale.

Pennywise takes hold relatively quickly, stimulating the smoker’s mind before going to work on the body. External stimulation like certain sights or sounds may take on a new dimension or intensity. Thanks to this strain’s indica influence and CBD content, though, its head high is not overly cerebral or disorienting. Instead, consumers are able to maintain lucid conversation or to execute complicated, detail-oriented tasks. Pennywise may also be helpful for opening up creative avenues for projects like brainstorming or crafting. Fairly soon, users are immersed in the strain’s soothing physical properties. Progressive waves of relaxation roll down through the neck and core, relieving and spots of lingering muscular tension and helping to facilitate deep and easy breathing. At this point, energy levels begin to dip and the average consumer may not want to do much more than lounge on the closes comfortable surface. Atmospheric media like a moody movie or playlist can help to enhance this strain’s relaxation even further. Since it mostly allows smokers to keep their wits about them, Pennywise can also be a fun bud for social situations, stoking free-flowing conversation and camaraderie. If the dosage is increased, beware that this very relaxing strain comes with the possibility of intractable couchlock and may even lull users to sleep in the right set and setting. Because of its mostly kicked-back vibes, Pennywise is recommended for consumption starting in the late afternoon, when its eventually sedative mood can be fully appreciated.

Pennywise also has significant medical uses that flow from its high 1:1 ratio of THC to the more therapeutic cannabinoid CBD. High CBD strains have shown potential in alleviating the effects of PTSD, arthritis, epilepsy and various neurological disorders. These kinds of strains have also been observed to have neuroprotective properties. Pennywise’s generally sedate mood can even help relieve stress and calm anxiety.

Seeds of this popular strain are available for sale directly through TGA Subcool. Plants of Pennywise can grow to medium height. The strain is suitable for indoor cultivation, although it has no issues with an outdoor garden; in fact, its strong landrace backbone (parent strain Harlequin is a mix of bud native to Colombia and Thailand) makes it resistant to an adverse growing condition like mold and mildew. This strain has four different phenotypes, with each differing in bud structure and color dominance. Crops should be topped at least once by trimming away any broad, light-blocking fan leaves. Pennywise typically flowers within a long 9 to 10 weeks.

Although it can be very valuable for medical cannabis patients, Pennywise is recreationally enjoyable as well. Its soothing effects can be a great way to unwind after a long day or week of work.