Zkittlez

Any strain coming out of the "Dying Breeds Seeds" breeders' room is backed up by a certain level of hype (and for good reason), but their crowing jewel has got to be Zkittlez.

Dropping in early 2015, Zkittlez was actually the strain that shot "Dying Breeds Seeds" to fame, winning top honours at the 2016 Emerald Cup in California and for best Indica weed strain at the 2015 Cannabis Cups in both San Francisco and Michigan, respectively. Taking out two of the biggest awards in the industry in consecutive years is an honour only previously bestowed to a couple of key historical strains, but with Zkittlez's taste and effects, it's easy to see why she joined this list.

It should come as anything but a surprise that Zkittlez has gone on to parent some of the biggest household names in the modern scene, including Zkittlez Glue by Humboldt Seed Company and Watermelon Skittles by Elev8 Seed, as well as possible the top strain of the last decade, Runtz.

So, what makes Zkittlez so special?

• The Smell and Flavour - Sticking as close to its candy namesake as possible, Zkittlez offers a burst of fruity and tropical flavours that are almost too indulgent. With hints of grape, watermelon, tangy lime rind cover a strong undercurrent of almost earthy leather that keeps the flavour profile extremely well balanced. The aroma isn't far off either, with grapefruit taking the fore, followed by a floral and piney note.
• The Effects - The 70% Indica dominance is on full display with Zkittlez, but that 30% Sativa also shows up to deliver a well-rounded high. The initial onset is typically head-focused, with a strong elated effect that is equal parts joyous and calming. As the high progresses, the body takes over, and does so a little quicker than other 70/30 indica dominant hybrids. While often suggested as an evening strain, we have also heard many reports of its suitability for daytime use, especially in therapeutic settings.
• The Potency - OK, we know an 18 % to 22% THC strain isn't going to blow the roof off, but with Zkittlez, it's not purely about the numbers. The terpene count is extremely high and is dominated by myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene. This combination of cannabinoids and terpenes is what makes this strain such a juicy option for medical weed strain patients looking for a potential therapeutic ally.