Spain has received significant interest lately due to its innovative approach to cannabis regulation, which involves the development of cannabis social clubs. Additionally, the government has legalised the use of cannabis-based products for specific medical conditions, allowing patients to receive treatment options that were previously considered unconventional.

The diverse climate zones provide ideal environmental conditions for cultivating cannabis. The Mediterranean climate, present across many regions in Spain, is characterised by mild winters and long, warm summers, encouraging healthy growth and robust cannabinoid production. The diverse terroir found throughout the different regions of Spain contains varying mineral concentrations and nutrient profiles that can significantly influence the flavours and aromas of cannabis. 

So let us check out seven of the best weed strains in Spain!

1. Super Skunk

Super Skunk is a prevalent cannabis hybrid intentionally created by crossing the potent Hash Plant with the renowned Skunk #1. The primary goal was to maximise the potency and yield of the original Skunk #1. Super Skunk triumphed in the prestigious High Times Harvest Festival of 1990 and has been a fan favourite ever since.

When cultivating Super Skunk, growers can expect to see short and compact plants with dense foliage and minimal space between nodes. The buds are dense and resinous, with deep amber pistils and olive-green foliage. Super Skunk is an ideal weed strain for any garden, thriving in the Spanish climate with long summers and optimal soil conditions. Its durability and resilience make it an easy-to-grow plant, ideal for beginners.

This cultivars terpene profile is exceptionally potent and unmistakably skunky. A touch of zesty citrus complements the earthy and musky notes, while hints of spicy sandalwood balance the flavour profile. Typical of indica-dominant hybrids, Super Skunk provides a calming physical high. However, its subtle sativa effects enhance mental focus and promote a positive, uplifting feeling of euphoria. 

2. Blueberry Zkittlez

Blueberry Zkittlez Automatic was developed in 2023 as part of our Sensi Seeds Research program. It is a meticulous cross of Blueberry with NL #5, Skunk Kush and Durban. This weed strain boasts a multilayered terpene profile and is a product of exceptional crossbreeding inspired by the immense popularity of Zkittlez. 

Our breeding experts have successfully combined the most desirable characteristics of Zkittlez to create an exceptional hybrid, Blueberry Zkittlez. This hybrid features delicious flavour notes and is a prime example of successful hybridisation utilising USA genetics.

This indica-dominant hybrid has a short and compact structure, dense, deep green foliage and minimal internodal spacing. Growers can expect compact, resinous buds with deep amber pistils and lush hues of purple throughout flowering. Blueberry Zkittlez requires minimal upkeep, and its automatic characteristics allow it to thrive throughout Spain’s diverse climate.

The flavour profile of Blueberry Zkittlez is both fruity and complex, with strong overtones of freshly picked blueberries and candy, complemented by subtle hints of earth and spice. This hybrid offers a well-rounded experience, providing a mental boost of clarity and a relaxing effect on the body.

3. Sensi Amnesia XXL

Carefully developed by backcrossing the Original Amnesia with itself and crossing it with a robust Ruderalis for its auto-flowering traits. Sensi Amnesia XXL Automatic is a 70% sativa and 30% indica. It is well-known for its exotically sweet terpene profile, XXL yields, and low-maintenance characteristics, gaining immense popularity since its introduction in early 2023. 

Sensi Amnesia XXL’s tight internodal spacing is influenced by its Ruderalis parent, resulting in a short and compact structure with dense foliage. The buds are stacked and feature thick, swollen calyxes with excessive resin glands. It’s perfect for open soil cultivation and thrives under the Spanish sun.

Thanks to its parent, the Original Amnesia, its terpene profile is rich in limonene, contributing to this cultivars deliciously sweet and zesty flavours. Pronounced notes of tangy citrus rind and fresh mandarin complement the subtle undertones of pungent sandalwood, adding depth to the terpene profile. Users have reported an uplifting and cheerful experience that increases clarity and provides a subtle body buzz. Its effects are long-lasting and can turn any frown upside down!

4. Master Kush

Master Kush was created through a rigorous breeding process involving two Afghan landraces hailing from the elusive Hindu Kush region. It is highly regarded within the cannabis community for its potent indica properties and has served as a foundation for some of the most exceptional indica hybrids. It is also an award-winning cultivar that dominated the 2014 High Life Cup!

If you are searching for a potent indica that produces resin-packed buds, look no further than Master Kush. This cultivar is perfect for those who want to make hashish, and it is incredibly durable and resistant to pests and fluctuations in temperature. Experienced growers suggest using techniques like SOG, SCROG, and topping to achieve higher yields.

The strong presence of myrcene and caryophyllene in Master Kush gives off a distinctive earthy aroma with loud notes of spicy charas and hints of sandalwood. Cannabis enthusiasts report experiencing a calming body buzz that Increases sensory awareness and mental clarity. If you are looking for a perfect weed strain to unwind on the sofa during lazy afternoons or early evenings, Master Kush is definitely worth considering.

5. Skunk #1

One of the most influential cannabis hybrids to have significantly impacted the world of cannabis breeding is Skunk #1. This hybrid has been utilised in creating numerous new-school genetics and was initially developed in the 1970s by crossbreeding Colombian Gold, Acapulco Gold, and an Afghan indica. Its origin can be traced back to California, and it was later introduced to Europe by Sam the Skunkman, where it has thrived ever since.

Interestingly, this skunk hybrid can achieve greater heights than many other indica-dominant hybrids, likely due to its sativa influence from Colombian and Acapulco Gold. Despite this, it displays a classic indica morphology with its sturdy stems, short flowering time, and overall compact structure.

Earthy undertones perfectly balance the sweet flavour, and its unique blend of citrus, sandalwood, and spicy charas creates a bold and unforgettable taste experience. This highly aromatic cultivar is known for its musky scent, reminiscent of some of our favourite black and white critters.

Skunk #1 is ideal for those seeking a potent and inspiring cannabis experience. Users have reported a surge of creativity and euphoria, which gradually transforms into a deep sense of relaxation throughout the body. This weed strain boasts a robust and fragrant terpene profile that will leave a lasting impression. So, if you are searching for a heavy-hitting hybrid that provides an uplifting and calming experience, Skunk #1 is worth considering!

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6. Critical Runtz

Critical Runtz Feminized was developed through a meticulous selective breeding process involving NL#2, Skunk Kush, Jack Herer, and Durban. This indica-dominant hybrid contains 70% indica and 30% sativa and can thrive in various climates throughout Spain, from Galicia to Catalonia. Its popularity has skyrocketed across the United States and Europe.

This cultivar exhibits characteristics of both indica and sativa hybrids. Growers can expect a tall structure with spacious internodal gaps, elongated branches and lush foliage. During the flowering period, densely formed flowers take on beautiful shades of deep purple due to an abundance of anthocyanins. Growers can significantly increase yields by utilising training techniques such as topping, Sea of Green, and lollipopping, and with optimal conditions, they can even achieve XL yields.

The flavour and aroma profile is charming, with hints of freshly peeled citrus and mandarin, perfectly balanced by the sour notes of sandalwood, moist earth, and musk. Users have noted a pleasantly uplifting cerebral high and a calming mental relaxation that smoothly transitions into a soothing body buzz.

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7. Sticky Orange XXL

This powerhouse was developed exclusively for the Sensi Seeds Research Program by breeding California Indica with Shiva Skunk, Gorilla Glue, and Maple Leaf Indica. It has been an enormous success in the Spanish market since its release!

Sticky Orange XXL Automatic is perfect for the northern regions of Spain, thanks to its automatic feature. With the potential to deliver XXL yields, this cultivar packs a punch and emits a strong floral scent during flowering. Its chunky and dense flowers are adorned with striking orange pistils.

Sticky Orange XXL boasts a zesty flavour profile with delicate notes of freshly peeled Mandarins and lemon rind. In the backdrop, subtle hints of cocoa and peppery charas can be depicted. Its indica effects are primarily focused on the body, providing long-lasting relief. This weed strain is perfect for calming the mind and body, making it an excellent choice for unwinding in the evening while watching TV.

The best of Spain?

Spain boasts a vibrant cannabis scene, and our list of the seven best strains offers a glimpse into the country’s diverse genetics. The favourable climate and fertile terroir have contributed to the development high-grade cannabis strains. As cannabis social clubs continue to sprout up across the country and demand for the plant increases, Spain will continue to be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge genetics.

Tis the season for murder—terp murder, that is.

Yes, terpenes—those aromatic molecules that make cannabis so special run an annual harvest gauntlet. More than half the terps the plant produces will never make it to the bag. Even more will be smoked without a proper cure.

Growers chop plants too early, they burn terpenes in the dry room, or they rot terpenes in containers that were sealed too soon. Also, sellers sell and consumers smoke flower before it’s fully cured and in its prime.

Leafly has tons of resources to get you through your first harvest season. But we also wanted to recap the basics with an expert. Watch the video above as Leafly Senior Editor David Downs—author of “Marijuana Harvest“—runs down the top tips to save those terps with Bay Area-based expert Post-Harvest Manager Danielle Boudreaux. Tips include:

• Chop plants when trichomes are ripe
• Hang-dry branches whole in a cool, blacked-out room with a fan gently circulating
• Keep the drying room at 60F, and the relative humidity at 55RH. Monitor remotely with WiFi sensors from Govee.
• Hang dry for 10 to 14 days until the thickest bud stems crack, but do not fully break. Don’t rush the dry.
• Remove branches from the line and finish drying in bins for at least a week until the terpene smell overtakes the water and plant smell
• Do not seal wet bud in jars—the water and lack of oxygen promotes rotting

If only it all went so smoothly. Watch the video for troubleshooting tips as well.

Here’s more articles to help you harvest, dry, and store buds

Which terpenes are responsible for the aromas in spicy strains?

Terpenes work synergetically with other cannabinoids, creating what is commonly referred to as the entourage effect. This unique collaboration plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sensory experience of cannabis strains and their effects. While a strain’s terpene profile can vary based on factors like genetics and cultivation practices, here are some terpenes commonly associated with spicy weed strains!

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found naturally within various plants, most commonly black pepper, cloves and oregano. It is also one of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis varieties. This compound carries a distinctive spicy and peppery aroma which directly contributes to the unique aroma and flavour profiles. 

Myrcene

Myrcene is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene found in various plant species, such as cannabis, hops, and even some fruits like mangoes. This terpene is known for its distinctive musky and earthy scent and is frequently responsible for the overall aroma and flavour of many different cannabis hybrids.

The top 7 strains high in caryophyllene

Now that we understand that specific terpenes contribute to a strain’s scent. Let’s take a look at seven weed strains that are high in caryophyllene!

1. Jack Herer

Jack Herer was created in the early 1990s by meticulously crossbreeding Haze with Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk. It was named in honour of the cannabis activist and Ben Dronker’s close friend, Jack Herer. This weed strain has gained worldwide popularity within the cannabis community and was even the first hybrid to be prescribed by Dutch pharmacies. It has also won numerous cannabis cups, further solidifying its status as an outstanding hybrid.

This cultivar thrives in a Mediterranean climate and can produce some impressive yields with ideal growing conditions. Jack Herer has four phenotypes, three of which are sativas and one of which is an indica. This strain is particularly well-suited for producing concentrates because of its high resin production. Growers can use training techniques like SOG or SCROG to increase yields even further!

The terpene profile of Jack Herer is known for being extraordinarily spicy and contains abundant levels of the pepper-scented terpene, beta-caryophyllene. The aromatic notes are complex and intense, featuring a blend of sharp, savoury, and earthy flavours that escalate after the harvest. Jack Herer is known for its uplifting and cerebral effects when consumed, providing users with a soaring high accompanied by a slight body buzz.

2. White Diesel Haze

White Diesel Haze was meticulously crafted by crossing Haze and Ruderalis with NYC Diesel. It is a sativa-dominant hybrid with an exquisitely spicy profile and is an excellent choice for those seeking an energy boost throughout the day.

This particular weed strain stands out among other sativas due to its distinctive qualities. Its compact and stocky structure allows it to thrive even in colder climates, making it an ideal choice for growers in Northern Europe. Its autoflowering traits make it an easy-to-grow cultivar with a pungent terpene profile and frosty dense buds.

With high levels of beta-caryophyllene and myrcene, White Diesel Haze has a remarkable terpene profile featuring an unmistakable aroma of pungent diesel fuel, complemented by subtle undertones of tangy grapefruit, sweet pineapple, and refreshing citrus notes. This weed strain is ideal for daytime use, as it delivers an invigorating and uplifting high that enhances creativity and mental clarity.

3. White Widow

A prevalent cultivar in the Dutch coffeeshop scene since the early 1990s is White Widow. Our dedicated team of breeders carefully developed this revolutionary hybrid by crossing a Brazillian sativa with a South Indian indica. This weed strain has triumphed in numerous cannabis cups and remains a favourite among enthusiasts to this day.

As the name suggests, White Widow has dense, dark green, resinous buds covered with sticky white trichomes and deep orange pistils. Its dense structure, tight internodal spacing, and robust, resilient characteristics make it a popular choice for commercial growers.

White Widow has a distinctly peppery aroma, accompanied by subtle hints of tangy citrus that perfectly complement undertones of moist earth, sandalwood, and spicy charas. It offers a well-balanced blend of cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation, increasing creativity and mental clarity before transitioning into a calming body high. Its spicy flavour and uplifting effects make it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded cannabis experience.

4. Chemdawg

According to popular belief, a cultivator from the United States named Chemdog acquired a top-quality ounce of cannabis at a Grateful Dead concert in 1991, containing a handful of seeds. After germinating them, he selected the finest phenotypes and shared them with fellow cannabis in the community. It has since been utilised to create unique hybrids with distinct terpene profiles and has become a representation of ingenuity and originality within the cannabis community.

The buds of Chemdawg tend to be dense and resinous, often covered in a thick blanket of trichomes. Densely packed calyxes help contribute to its high resin production. During flowering, Chemdawg exhibits a range of colours visible throughout the foliage and bud structure, including deep shades of purple and vibrant orange or red pistils.

Chemdawg has a highly distinctive aroma, renowned for its spicy profile that is high in beta-caryophyllene and myrcene with low concentrations of limonene. It has an exceptionally gassy flavour reminiscent of gasoline, with subtle hints of zesty citrus and fresh sandalwood that accompany pungent notes of hashish. According to many cannabis enthusiasts, it provides a stimulating and uplifting cerebral boost that transitions into a soothing body buzz.

5. Durban

The breeders at Sensi Seeds developed Durban by taking the best characteristics of the original landrace, Durban Poison, native to Durban in South Africa. It is considered one of the purest sativas in our collection and was bred to thrive in temperate climates.

Shorter than most sativas, Durban has a compact structure, tight internodal spacing, and elongated lateral branches that support dense bud formations. As it enters the flowering stage, the calyxes swell, and pistils change into vibrant deep red and pink hues. This short-flowering cultivar has impressive resistance to mould and can be grown outdoors in most climates. Its resilience and robust properties make it a standout option for novice growers.

Durban is known for its unique peppery aroma, featuring loud notes of tangy citrus, pungent aniseed, damp earth, and subtle undertones of coffee, sandalwood, and cacao. This weed strain is highly regarded among the cannabis community for its potent cerebral effects that boost creativity and mental clarity. Despite its powerful effects, Durban is also known for its incredibly calming and relaxing properties.

6. OG Kush

OG Kush was developed in California during the 1990s and has gained worldwide recognition as an indica-dominant powerhouse! There has been much discussion within the cannabis community about whether the “OG” in OG Kush stands for Ocean Grown or Original Gangster. However, given its origins in a coastal region with fertile soil, many tend to lean towards the former. Nevertheless, we would love to hear your thoughts on the matter.

This powerhouse displays its indica characteristics through its short stature, abundant lateral branches, and thick foliage. The buds are large, compact, and covered in a sticky resin with a beautiful lime-green hue. For optimal growth, it is recommended to cultivate these plants indoors with lighting or in a Mediterranean climate.

OG Kush has a rather pungent and complex aroma profile, with noticeable levels of caryophyllene, limonene and myrcene. It emits a pungent odour reminiscent of diesel fuel among earthy and piney notes, with subtle hints of tangy citrus and skunk. 

Well-balanced high that induces a sense of uplifting euphoria and increases creativity before dissipating into a full-body high which relaxes the muscles. Its effects are well-balanced, starting with a joyful and creative high that eventually transitions into a full-body relaxation which relaxes the muscles. However, be warned: it can be pretty sedative in larger doses.

7. Silver Fire

Initially introduced as part of our Sensi Seeds Research project, it was added to our catalogue permanently in 2019. Silver Fire is an indica-dominant hybrid developed by interbreeding our award-winning Silver Haze with the ever-popular Fire OG.

This cultivar is known to flourish in a warm, Mediterranean climate. It has a classic sativa morphology with a tall, elegant structure, thick apical mainstem, elongated lateral branches, and sufficient internodal spacing. Those growing Silver Fire can anticipate clusters of dense, sizeable buds with extremely swollen calyxes coated in a sparkling blanket of trichomes.

The high concentration of myrcene and caryophyllene is responsible for its piquant allure. Silver Fire’s flavour profile includes a delightful combination of sweet and spicy scents with hints of mouth-watering citrus, fresh sandalwood and spicy hashish. Many connoisseurs have praised its balanced effects and reported feeling an uplifted, creative high that induces mental and physical relaxation.

The fascinating world of spicy weed

In conclusion, the world of cannabis provides a diverse range of experiences. These spicy weed strains provide unforgettable experiences due to the interplay between terpenes and cannabinoids. Spicy strains entice users with vibrant flavours and effects, but personal preferences can be crucial in choosing your favourite. In comparison, some enthusiasts might prefer the subtle pepperiness of Durban, and others might enjoy the citrus undertones of White Widow. What are your favourites?