Pineapple Express is a classic stoner film. And the Pineapple Express strain? We consider it a classic, too. Its energetic effects and bright flavor profile consistently deliver a euphoric experience.
This weed existed long before its silver screen debut. UK-based cannabis seed company G13 Labs is credited with creating the strain. However, many other growers, all the way from California to Hawaii, claim to be the originators of the fruity flower. Lore and rumors aside, one thing’s for sure: the cannabis community is grateful for Pineapple Express!
What Strain Is Pineapple Express?
Pineapple Express delivers the fruitiness and fun promised by its name (but skips the chaos of its cinematic counterpart). As a sativa-dominant hybrid, it’s known for its energizing properties and poses little risk of sedative effects.
Breakdown: Pineapple Express is 60% sativa and 40% indica. With a THC content that sits between 25% and 31%, Pineapple Express is potent and a solid option for those after a memorable experience. It delivers enjoyable mind-altering effects without the couchlock you can get from indica-dominant strains.
Terpenes: Terpenes are the compounds in cannabis responsible for a flower’s unique scent, flavor profile, and effects. Pineapple Express’ dominant terpenes are:
- Myrcene: Delivers sweet and spicy notes and contributes to the entourage effect.
- Ocimene: Known for its citrus/woody flavors and aromas, this terpene reportedly offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Caryophyllene: This terpene has a distinct peppery aroma and soothing effects.
Pineapple Express also has secondary terpenes adding to its tropical allure, including limonene (citrusy) and pinene (piney).
How Did Pineapple Express Weed Strain Originate?
In Hawaii, an atmospheric river forms near an area known for its pineapple cultivation and flows towards North America’s west coast, delivering rain and snow. Pineapple Express weed is named after this weather event, playing on the notion that the river brings hints of its pineapple homelands with it.
Parent strains: Pineapple Express is made by crossing the Trainwreck and Hawaiian strains. Trainwreck is a sativa-dominant hybrid, and Hawaiian is simply a sativa. So, naturally, the resulting strain of Pineapple Express is heavy on the sativa.
How lineage affects flavor: Pineapple Express’s parent strains play a major role in its flavor profile. Trainwreck brings the earthy, sweet notes while Hawaiian delivers the irresistible tropical flavors that made the strain infamous.
Breeder background: The truth is that there is much debate over the real backstory of Pineapple Express. It is said to have originated at the G13 Labs in the United Kingdom before making its way through the Amsterdam cannabis scene. However, it quickly spread throughout the California growing community, with nearly identical strains popping up in the Golden State on the heels of G13’s release. As with many strains, multiple cultivators claim to be the originators, so take all legends with a grain of salt.
Pineapple Express Effects
As a Sativa-dominant strain, Pineapple Express will have you feeling alert and never sleepy. Still, the presence of indica delivers a balanced effect, minimizing some of the more intense effects of a pure sativa. Pineapple Express consumers report feeling:
- Euphoria and an uplifted mood
- Increased energy and focus
- Appetite stimulation
- Pain relief
- Nausea relief
- Improved cognitive function
- Mental clarity and creative boost
Any medicinal benefits are anecdotal and not supported by research.
Aroma, Flavor, and Appearance of the Pineapple Express Cannabis Strain
Want to know if you’re handling genuine Pineapple Express buds? Here are characteristics to look for.
How does it smell?
Take a whiff of Pineapple Express and you’ll instantly enjoy its intoxicating tropical smell that’s both bright and earthy.
What does it taste like?
Pineapple Express is undeniably sweet in flavor, presenting notes of its pointy namesake fruit prominently on your palate. A subtle cedar-like taste complements the pineapple/mango flavor.
What does it look like?
The buds of this popular flower will put a smile on your face. The nugs are classic olive green, and you’ll find orange hairs all over their surface along with shiny trichomes.
Benefits and Medical Uses
After enjoying Pineapple Express, some individuals have reported relief from symptoms of various physical and mental health conditions, including:
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Depression
- ADHD
- Chronic pain
These reports are primarily anecdotal. Always consult your physician before trying any new remedy for an existing condition.
Possible Negative Effects of Pineapple Express to Be Aware of
As with any cannabis strain, there are some potential drawbacks to be aware of. With Pineapple Express, these can include:
- Increased hunger
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Wakefulness (don’t smoke it at bedtime)
- Paranoia
If you’re new to a strain, always start with a low dosage and go slow to see how you respond.
Is Pineapple Express Sativa-Indica Hybrid Easy to Grow?
Thinking of growing Pineapple Express yourself? If you’re looking for a high-yield strain that does well indoors or outdoors, Pineapple Express is a top choice. Here are some things to consider:
- Difficulty level: Pineapple Express is considered relatively easy to grow for cultivators of various experience levels.
- Indoor or outdoor: Pineapple Express plants can thrive indoors or outdoors.
- High yield: You can get up to a pound of dried flower per plant.
- Short flowering time: Pineapple Express has a typical flowering time of 60 to 65 days.
- Relatively mold-resistant: Pineapple Express is hardy and circulates air well, helping it resist moisture and mold buildup
3 Tips for Growing Pineapple Express
Before growing your own Pineapple Express, consider these best practices for a healthy harvest.
- Create space: Pineapple Express can grow quite tall (up to 6 feet), so ensure you have enough space.
- Prune: Pruning can help manage the plant’s growth and ensure good airflow, especially in less-than-ideal conditions. For indoor growers, training techniques like LST (bending the tips to prohibit growth) or SOG (growing many small plants instead of a few large ones) can help maximize yields.
- Maintain proper humidity and temperature: It is essential to monitor humidity levels during the flowering phase to avoid potential mold issues. The best levels are around 50%. As for temperature, Pineapple Express plants are happiest between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the vegetative stage and between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the flowering stage.
Ready to Try Pineapple Express? Contact Sky’s the Limit for Premium Smoking Products
If you’re looking for a light thrill ride, without feeling too “high,” hop on the Pineapple Express. Its sativa-dominant profile will have you feeling euphoric, ready to socialize, create, or simply enjoy good vibes.
Contact us at Sky’s the Limit. Our cannabis experts would be happy to guide you in selecting quality products to elevate your experience. With top-shelf glass products from bongs to pipes and more, we can ensure you have the session you’re craving.
FAQs
Still have questions about Pineapple Express? Here are some quick answers to some of the most common questions we see about this fruity flower.
Is the Pineapple Express drug a real strain?
Yes! Pineapple Express is a high-THC sativa-dominant strain of cannabis.
Is the Pineapple Express strain indica or sativa?
It’s both! Pineapple Express is a sativa-dominant hybrid. It contains 60 percent sativa and 40 percent indica.
Is the Pineapple Express indica-sativa strain good for beginners?
If you’re willing to start low and slow, yes. Pineapple Express is punchy, so don’t hit the gas on this ride!
