Are you looking to branch out in your consumption, experience the rich variety of highs this protean plant has to offer, or explore the edges of the cannabis market’s expanding therapeutic potential?
If you are a cannabis enthusiast, whether newly minted or an old-school head, you may be hunting for something more distinct and exciting to try. With thousands of recognized weed strains available and seemingly dozens of hybridized varieties bred each week, finding genuine exotic strains can be challenging. But, with just a little effort, you can discover some of the most unique, overlooked flavors and profiles available.
Exotic, or “zaza,” as a label, can mean many different things to different people. Several factors go into whether or not a strain is rare or highly sought after:
Potency
In recent years, strains considered exotic have tended toward high THC percentages. However, unique cannabinoid or terpene profiles are just as important when it comes to the experience of the strain. Just remember, as research has repeatedly shown, higher doses of THC don’t necessarily increase the high or improve one’s enjoyment.
Flavor
Consuming cannabis is all about the journey, and the flower’s taste and smell contribute deeply to the overall experience. A strain that has a unique aroma or an unexpected taste will likely make its way into folklore in the cannabis community.
Availability
Discovering a rare, hard-to-find cannabis strain is a real treat for aficionados. Whether unavailable to a specific region (West Coast and East Coast markets can have very different selections) or a strain that is difficult to grow, ease of access contributes to a strain’s status as “exotic.”
New Does Not Mean Exotic
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, you’d imagine an ever-increasing variety of flavors, aromas, effects, and genetics introduced into the market. And while the pure abundance of breeding has led to some expansion at the edges, the true diversity of offerings available from your local dealer or dispensary has likely diminished.
In the decades-long pursuit toward higher THC, there has sadly been a massive loss in biodiversity. The latest trends coming out of Cannabis Cup competitions show the cannabis market flooded with caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene-dominant terpene profiles, such as:
- Caryophyllene-heavy “dessert” strains, like Ice Cream Cake, Gelato, Wedding Crasher, GSC, and Zkittlez.
- Limonene-dominant varieties, including orangey, citrusy strains like Strawberry Banana, Do-Si-Dos, and Clementine.
- More common myrcene heavy hitters like Blue Dream, Purps, Tangie, and Cherry Pie.
Instead of seeing this as an opportunity to grow something different, too many cultivators double down on the “what’s popular” trend, leaving many flavor profiles grossly underrepresented in today’s cannabis marketplace.
While dispensary shelves have become more homogenized, those tides are slowly starting to turn as consumers wake up to greater possibilities. Slowly but surely, there’s a growing opportunity for more exotic strains to flourish. We should all encourage breeders who focus on unique cannabinoid profiles and support those growers that prioritize the preservation of flavor in terpenes.
Tips to Help You Find Those More Exotic Cannabis Strains
1. Explore Dispensaries
Though it may take just a bit more endeavor, there’s still hope!
One of the best places to start your search for strains with more exotic profiles is at your local dispensary. Most of these establishments carry a wide selection of different varieties, and some even specialize in rare and exotic cultivars, such as high-CBD flower.
Search for shops that have a reputation for carrying high-quality, unique strains. You can ask the budtenders for recommendations for strains that are new, rare, and worth trying. Look for brands that test for terpene content and include it on their label. Ideally, seek those over the 1.4% market average.
2. Attend Cannabis Festivals and Trade Shows
Another great way to find exotic varieties, cannabis events, held in cities around the world, provide an opportunity to sample and purchase a variety of strains from different vendors. You can also meet growers and breeders, who are often happy to talk about their products and share information about their available new strains.
Some may specialize in older landrace strains with unique cannabinoid and exotic terpene profiles–which may have more potent and psychedelic highs than their lower THC percentage would indicate. Malawi Gold or Oaxacan Highland are examples of vintage strains you may discover at these events.
3. Check Social Media and Online Forums
Social media platforms like Weedlife, Leafwire, and Grasscity are dedicated to discussing cannabis. These are excellent places to find information about new and exotic strains. You can also follow influencers, growers, and breeders on more traditional social media platforms, such as Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit.
Another option is joining online forums and discussion groups where you can ask questions, share information, and connect with other cannabis enthusiasts.
4. Connect with Local Growers
Finally, consider connecting with local growers and breeders in your area. These individuals often have access to rare and exotic strains that aren’t widely available, and they may be able to provide you with information about new strains in development. Additionally, you can attend local events and meetups or simply reach out to growers and breeders in your area to get started.
Hunting for exotic cannabis strains can be a fun and exciting process. By exploring dispensaries, attending events, connecting with online communities, and working with local growers, you can discover a wide range of unique and flavorful strains you’ll love. So, indulge your curiosity, expand your knowledge of this incredible plant’s forgotten history and burgeoning potential, and explore some of the most unique entourage effects cannabis has to offer!
Guest post written by Garrett McAuliffe
Photo by shanecotee from Canva Pro