XXX OG

XXX OG, also known as Tripe X OG, is an indica that’s powerful enough to knock out the likes of Vin Diesel himself. This calming, sedative strain is a cross between the rock-solid genetics of Skunk-derived XXX and the notorious OG Kush. XXX OG’s potency and its woodsy flavor profile won the strain the title of Best Indica in the 2014 High Times Cannabis Cup. Cannabis testing laboratory Analytical 360 has measured this strain’s THC content at between a modest 11% and a solid 21%.

XXX OG is immediately set apart from the pack with chunky, medium to large-sized flowers. These flowers are spherical in shape and have the dense and heavy bud structure typical of indica varieties. Leaves are a mossy green and are packed full of orange pistils. Some phenotypes of the strain also exhibit vivid streaks of purple — these purple hues come about when pigments called anthocyanins are agitated by cold weather during the growing process; this mechanism is similar in principle to the changing of foliage in autumn due to depleted chlorophyll levels. Cloudy white trichomes coat the outer and inner surfaces of the leaves, making them very difficult to break up by hand.

The influence of OG Kush in this strain’s aroma, which is more earthy than fruity. Notes of damp earth and pine predominate. Some sharp citrus tang hangs out underneath, brightening up this dank profile. When combusted, this strain gives off a surprisingly smooth smoke for an indica. On the exhale, it leaves a cloyingly sweet and slightly peppery taste that lingers on the palate.

XXX OG is a creeper of a strain, often taking several minutes before its effects are fully appreciated. The high starts off as a tingling, detected in the face and down the neck. Within minutes, the smoker’s entire body may seem to pleasantly hum with relaxation. Once adjusted to this novel physical sensation, smokers may feel compelled to recline in the closest comfortable surroundings — and indeed, you’ll want to be in your home or in a similar comfort zone as XXX OG’s relaxing undertow takes over. This thorough sedation, combined with subtle mental stimulation, can make lounging at home into a psychedelic experience. Sights and sounds can take on an amplified, more dynamic quality. Despite some uptick in thoughtfulness, however, this strain is free of the cerebral mindrace that comes with more sativa-dominant varieties. As dosage is increased, XXX OG can veer into couchlock territory, even lulling users into a deep and fulfilling sleep. For all these reasons, XXX OG is a strain that’s best enjoyed during the evening or before bed.

XXX OG is also useful for medical cannabis patients, with both physiological and psychological applications. Its powerful feelings of relaxation can blunt the troubling symptoms of mild to moderate cases of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also soothe chronic aches and pains and ease everyday irritations like headaches and stomach problems. XXX OG may be helpful for older patients, as it can ease the painful intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma. Finally, as mentioned, XXX OG’s undertow of physical relaxation can be of use to those who suffer from unyielding insomnia.

No breeders have made seeds of XXX OG available for commercial sale, although prospective growers can obtain clippings of mature plants from fellow enthusiasts in order to grow genetically identical “clones.” Alternatively, retailer Midnight Farms sells XXX OG clones online.

Once obtained, this strain can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor growing calls for a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures in the 70-degree Fahrenheit range. Growers should trim away any broad fan leaves on the short, bushy plants to ensure that light reaches any low-growing flowering nodes. Those looking to accentuate XXX OG’s purple streaks should also expose the plants to cold (but not freezing) nighttime temperatures just before flowering begins.

XXX OG is well-suited to unwinding at home before bed. Yet despite its sleepy vibe, this can also be a very social strain, facilitating easy, free-flowing conversation among friends. XXX OG’s indica potency has become valuable in crossbreeding: crossed with Tahoe Alien, it has yielded the popular Pacific Northwest strain Moonwalker Kush.