Durban Poison
The world's most famous pure South African Sativa—renowned for its electrifying energy and distinct licorice aroma.
What is Durban Poison?
Durban Poison is a legendary pure Sativa landrace originally discovered in the port city of Durban, South Africa. It was brought to the United States in the late 1970s by Ed Rosenthal and later refined by Mel Frank and Sam the Skunkman, becoming a cornerstone of modern cannabis breeding.
Unlike modern desert-style hybrids, Durban Poison is a uniquely uplifting cultivar. It is one of the few pure Sativas that can actually finish flowering in a reasonable timeframe indoors. Known for its oversized resin glands, it has historically been a favorite for hash makers, though the "breeder cut" flower is celebrated for a high that is functional, creative, and completely devoid of "couch-lock."
Terpene Profile
The Durban Poison terpene profile is unmistakable. It avoids the typical tropical fruit notes of most Sativas, opting instead for a pungent mix of sweet anise, spicy cloves, and a cooling pine finish. It is often high in THCV, which contributes to its "suppressant" and energetic qualities.
Growing Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a vigorious grower that demands vertical space. It can easily triple in size during the flowering stretch, making it a "stretchy" plant that requires early topping or SCROG (Screen of Green) methods. It is highly resistant to pests and mold, a testament to its landrace origins in the humid climate of South Africa.
Key Growing Tips
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Space ManagementFlip to flower earlier than usual; she will fill the tent rapidly during the stretch
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AirflowThe dense colas need strong airflow to prevent any late-season issues
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Trichome CheckHarvest when trichomes are mostly milky for the most "racy" Sativa effect
This is a "stretch-heavy" strain. Use a trellis net early in veg to manage the height, or you'll be fighting the lights by week 4 of flower!
Concentrate Potential
Durban Poison is famous for its large, round trichome heads. While it is world-class as flower, it is a **top-tier washer** for old-school sieving and modern bubble hash. The terpinolene-heavy resin remains stable and provides an incredibly fragrant extract that tastes exactly like the fresh plant.
Effects & Experience
The **Durban Poison strain effects** are often compared to a cup of strong espresso. There is no heavy "body stone" here; instead, it provides a clean, cerebral buzz that is perfect for daytime productivity, outdoor activities, or creative sessions.
Best Clone Pairings
Expand your garden with these elite genetics that complement the high-vigor and unique terpene profile of Durban Poison:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Durban Poison is one of the few remaining "pure" Sativa landrace strains available in clone form, never having been crossed with Indica genetics to shorten its flower time.
It has a very specific aroma of sweet licorice (anise), spicy cloves, and fresh pine. It lacks the "fruit" notes typical of many modern Sativa hybrids.
Expect a massive stretch. Durban Poison can easily double or triple in height once the lights are switched to 12/12. Training is highly recommended.
Because it is a very racy and energetic Sativa, users prone to THC-induced anxiety should start with a small dose. It is a very "active" high.
