South African Kwazulu, also known simply as “Kwazulu,” is a 100% pure sativa cannabis strain that is native to the Drakensberg Ridge of South Africa. Grown by generations of Shaka Zulus, who were one of Africa’s most significant farmer warrior tribes, legend has it that this plant was used in the battle preparations prior to the first British attack in 1879 and that her long-lasting and galvanizing properties enabled the outnumbered and outgunned Zulu army to repel the enemy invaders.
Drakensberg Ridge of South Africa
Effects and Benefits
Known for its super energizing high, South African Kwazulu is a great choice for any sativa lover who’s after a punch of energy to help them get going on an early morning or lazy afternoon. The high will start almost as soon as you exhale, filling your mind with a boost of euphoria that has you feeling giddy and giggly, without a care in the world. You’ll find this euphoria activates the brain, filling you with creativity and motivation that lends itself well to both conversations and creative tasks.
Thanks to Sativa’s genetics, the South African Kwazulu strain fills smokers’ minds with a boost of happiness and euphoria. It uplifts their mood and has them feeling giggly, and this euphoric state activates their brain, filling it with motivation and creativity. These effects give the weed a medicinal potential for various mental ailments. Some smokers report they get an appetite stimulation.
Combined with its high 18% + average THC level, these vibrant effects make South African Kwazulu a great choice for treating those suffering from conditions such as depression, chronic stress, appetite loss or nausea, headaches or migraines and chronic fatigue.
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Wide World of Weed Kwazulu Landrace
Flavor and Aroma
This bud has a sweet and spicy fruity licorice flavor with a lightly flowery exhale. The aroma is very similar, although earthier and more herbal at times. Also, this scent carries woody, herbal, and earthy notes with slight floral sweetness. Pungency is caused by the limonene and caryophyllene terpenes.
Growing Information
One of the most resistant strains to pests and mildew, her genetics allow her to be grown indoors and outside even at European latitudes. South African Kwazulu tolerates indoor and outdoor growth conditions very well. Indoor gardeners cultivating the strain in a room or a tent can expect plants of 30’’-60’’ in height with a harvest of 1-2 oz./ft2. Outdoor plants are known to reach 60’’-80’’ in stature and produce yields of up to 10-15 oz./plant. The harvest is expected in 64 days after a flowering phase that lasts 53-64 days.
Harvesting Cannabis
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profile
The South African Kwazulu strain is pure Sativa with a THC level that has been measured at hitting about 18-21% on average. This cannabis is considered to have a moderate THC potency, but it shouldn’t be underestimated.
Here's a detailed look at some of the key compounds found in cannabis:
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- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): A major psychoactive compound that stimulates dopamine release and induces euphoria. THC-rich strains may be helpful with conditions such as lack of appetite and chronic pain.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): A non-psychoactive compound that counteracts the side effects of THC. CBD is widely used for medicinal purposes and may treat arthritis and migraines.
- Cannabichromene (CBC): A minor cannabinoid with potential benefits in combating acne and depression.
- Cannabigerol (CBG): A minor compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, found in higher concentrations in young plants.
- Cannabinol (CBN): A trace element with mild psychoactive properties, formed from the oxidation of THC.
- Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THC-V): A compound that may be psychoactive in large amounts, reduces blood sugar, controls appetite, and stimulates bone growth.
Terpenes contribute to the unique aroma and effects of cannabis strains:
- Pinene: Offers a strong pine scent and is found in pine trees, basil, and rosemary.
- Myrcene: Has an earthy, musky flavor and is responsible for calming and soothing effects.
- Geraniol: Features a sweet rose scent with citrus notes and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Limonene: Has a powerful citrus aroma and can be found in lemons, oranges, and grapefruits.
- Linalool: Known for its spicy and lavender aroma, bringing relaxation and calming effects.
- Bisabolol: Contributes to anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, antioxidant, and analgesic properties.
- Terpineol: Has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antimicrobial qualities.
- Terpinolene: Offers a piney, floral, and herbaceous aroma.
- Phellandrene: Contributes to a minty, woody, and mildly citrus aroma with antihyperalgesic and antidepressive properties.
- Caryophyllene: Delivers a strong spicy, peppery aroma, resembling cinnamon and cloves.
Summary of Key Characteristics
Here is a table summarizing the key characteristics of the South African Kwazulu strain:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Strain Type | 100% Pure Sativa |
| Origin | Drakensberg Ridge, South Africa |
| THC Level | 18-21% |
| Flavor | Sweet and spicy fruity licorice with a flowery exhale |
| Aroma | Earthy and herbal with woody and floral notes |
| Effects | Energizing, euphoric, creative, and motivating |
| Medicinal Benefits | May help with depression, stress, appetite loss, headaches, and fatigue |
| Indoor Height | 30-60 inches |
| Outdoor Height | 60-80 inches |
| Indoor Yield | 1-2 oz/ft² |
| Outdoor Yield | 10-15 oz/plant |
| Flowering Time | 53-64 days |
| Harvest Time | 64 days after flowering |
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