Cannabis Strain Guide for Your Next Date

The spooky season inspires creative costumes, creepy movies, thrilling festivities, and fun decorations with pumpkins, ghouls, and goblins. To elevate your Halloween experience, why not add a unique twist with our favorite Halloween cannabis strains? Whether hosting a themed party or chilling at home with a horror movie marathon, these 10 Halloween strains can help make your night unforgettable. 

Ghost Train Haze

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Ghost Train Haze (GTH) might be misleading as there’s nothing hazy about this experience. The Ghost Train Haze strain is exceptionally potent, clocking in at 27% THC, ensuring it’s better suited for the experienced cannabis enthusiast. Its 80:20 sativa-to-indica genetics comes from its parents: Ghost OG and Neville’s Wreck. Ghost Train Haze has a sweet lemon flavor and an earthy, floral, citrus aroma.¹

Monster Cookies 

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

The Monster Cookies strain looks monster-ish with its bright green flowers, orange hairs, and thick white trichomes. The flavor and smell is berry sweet with hints of grape and vanilla. Monster Cookies is an 80% indica-dominant hybrid strain with an average THC content of 21%. The strain is a cross between the famous Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) and Granddaddy Purple.²

Zombie OG 

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Zombie OG is the perfect eerie strain to include in your Halloween celebrations. Also called Zombie Kush, it is a relatively potent cannabis strain with an average of 18-21% THC. The combined genetics of OG Kush and Blackberry created this 90% indica-dominant hybrid with arrow-shaped nugs. Cannabis connoisseurs can expect a spicy, earthy taste with hints of pine and berry, while the smell is quite fruity.³

Monkey Massacre

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

The “massacre” part of the name may inspire true horror, but you’ve got nothing to worry about with this Halloween marijuana strain. Monkey Massacre, an indica-dominant hybrid, has a spicy, sweet orange flavor with diesel undertones. It has a similar aroma profile except for more earthy pepperiness. The parents of this strain are the classic Original Glue and Professor Moriarty, and this marriage created a cannabis plant with fat, green, arrow-shaped nugs. The strain’s THC level ranges from a high 18% to a very potent 28%.⁴

Hell Cat 

Hybrid

Hell Cat, or Hellcat, is a hybrid cannabis strain with 50:50 sativa-to-indica genetics. The strain’s parents are the ever-potent Rascal’s OG and SFV OG Kush, so it’s no surprise that Hell Cat is a highly potent Halloween strain with an average THC content of 27-30%. The pepper-shaped nugs with amber-colored hairs and white trichomes give off a sweet, lemony smell with hints of pine, herb, and earthiness. Hell Cat has a lovely, sour, woody, lemony taste with a woody finish.⁵

White Witch 

Hybrid

White Witch is another evenly balanced marijuana strain that has a 50:50 indica-to-sativa ratio, but this one is a lot less potent with an average of 19-21% THC. The plant is beautiful with its fluffy green nugs and white crystal trichomes with a spicy, herbal, woody smell and an intense earthy undertone. White Witch has a delicious spicy pine taste. The strain has a mystical appeal—White Widow is the one parent, but the other is an unknown hybrid.⁶

Cereal Killer 

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

You might “kill” for your favorite cereal after a Cereal Killer experience. This 70% indica-dominant hybrid has an average of 15-21% THC, making it a suitable beginner strain. Chocolate Chunk was crossed with Deep Chunk and Bubba Kush to create Cereal Killer, giving it three parents! The flavor of this Halloween strain will remind you of a berry, grape, and mango fruit salad with a touch of lavender. The strain smells like your favorite fruity cereal—a sweet and sour citrus mix.⁷

Pretty Wicked 

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Pretty Wicked is aptly named. With a high THC level of 22-25%, you’re in for a super potent experience. Chem D and Purple Mayhem are the proud parents of this sativa-dominant cannabis strain with dark olive leaves and popcorn-shaped nugs. The strain has an intense chemical flavor with hints of earth, spice, and fruitiness, while you can expect a sweet and spicy grape taste.⁸

Poison Glue

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Canna-connoisseurs will love this highly potent sativa-dominant strain. Poison Glue has a high THC content at an average of 29-30% and 70% sativa genetics. The South African landrace strain, Durban Poison, was crossed with Gorilla Glue #4 to create Poison Glue. The strain has a delicious flavor and aroma profile, reminiscent of a vanilla cookie.⁹

Phantom OG

Hybrid

If you’re into sweet citrus strains, give Phantom OG a try. The perfectly balanced hybrid strain has a sweet, lemony flavor with hints of pine woods, while the aroma is similar but more earthy. Phantom OG has mysterious origins. One parent is OG Kush; the second could be Earth OG, Jupiter OG, or Mars OG. The strain is relatively potent, with an average of 20-24% THC.¹⁰

Find the Perfect Halloween Strain

Whether you’re a seasoned Halloween enthusiast or looking to buy flower, you can’t go wrong with these freakishly good strains. Visit a dispensary near you and ask your budtender which Halloween cannabis strains are in stock to add a spooky touch to your celebrations.

Find a Dispensary

Sources:

1. “Ghost Train Haze Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/ghost-train-haze

2. “Monster Cookies Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/monster-cookies

3. “Zombie OG Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/zombie-og

4. “Monkey Massacre Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/monkey-massacre

5. “Hellcat Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/hybrid/hellcat

6. “White Witch Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/hybrid/white-witch

7. “Cereal Killer Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/cereal-killer

8. “Pretty Wicked Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/pretty-wicked

9. “Poison Glue Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/poison-glue

10. “Phantom OG Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/hybrid/phantom-og

Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.

The cannabis world can be confusing, especially with the variety of terms used to describe the places where you can purchase cannabis products. Cannabis store, marijuana store, dispensary—are they all the same? In this guide, we’ll explain what you can expect from state-licensed dispensaries, as well as break down other types of stores that may appear similar (but are not).

What is a Cannabis Store or Marijuana Store?

A cannabis store or marijuana store is a retail location where customers can buy a variety of cannabis products–from dried flower, edibles, joints, and blunts to concentrates and accessories. These stores are licensed by the state and adhere to strict regulations regarding the sale of cannabis products.¹ In essence, cannabis stores and marijuana stores are the same; the difference in terminology depends on the legal language and regional preferences.

What is a Dispensary?

A dispensary is the same as a cannabis retail store, often referred to in the context of medical and recreational cannabis. Dispensaries are known for their knowledgeable staff, usually called “budtenders,” who can provide detailed information about the products and their uses.

These stores are regulated by state laws, and the cannabis they sell must be purchased from legal, state-licensed suppliers to ensure quality and safety for consumers. As part of the state laws, customers must present identification, and, in the case of medical dispensaries, a valid, state-issued medical marijuana card.²

What Is the Difference Between Medical vs Recreational Dispensaries?

The main differences between medical and recreational dispensaries are the use of cannabis—medical versus recreational—and the minimum age requirements, regulations, and taxes. Here’s more information about how these dispensaries differ:

Recreational or Adult-Use

Recreational dispensaries, also known as adult-use dispensaries, cater to individuals who are 21 and older. Requirements to enter a recreational cannabis dispensary vary and depend on state and local laws. Generally, customers don’t need to present a medical marijuana card to legally buy adult-use cannabis; however, they must show a valid government-issued ID. The focus of adult-use dispensaries is to provide a variety of cannabis products for recreational use within state limits. You can expect to find everything from pre-rolls and edibles to topicals and accessories.³

Medical

Medical dispensaries are designed to serve patients who use cannabis for medical purposes. Recreational and medical dispensaries are regulated and taxed differently. Access to a medical cannabis dispensary varies according to state and local laws, although you typically need a valid medical marijuana card that has been issued by the state in which you live. Staff can assist patients in choosing the appropriate products for their needs.⁴

One interesting detail that must be accounted for in the state of Michigan: since 2018, medical dispensaries can only be known as medical provisioning centers.⁵

Head Shop vs Dispensary

A head shop is a retail store that primarily sells paraphernalia related to cannabis use, such as pipes, bongs, rolling papers, and vaporizers. While head shops might also carry a selection of CBD products, they don’t sell cannabis. In contrast, a dispensary focuses on the sale of cannabis products, while it may also sell paraphernalia and merchandise.⁶

CBD Store vs Dispensary

CBD stores specialize in products that contain cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. These stores offer a variety of CBD items, including oils, tinctures, topicals, and edibles, typically derived from hemp. Since CBD products must contain little-to-no THC, they are legal in many places where cannabis is not. Dispensaries, on the other hand, sell products that contain both CBD and THC, offering a broader spectrum of cannabis options.

Vape Shop vs Dispensary

Vape shops are retail stores that sell vaping equipment and e-liquids, primarily for nicotine consumption. While some vape stores may carry a limited selection of CBD vape products, they don’t sell THC-rich cannabis products. Marijuana dispensaries offer a wide range of cannabis vaping options, including vape pens, cartridges, and various concentrates designed for vaping.⁷ However, tobacco products of any kind are prohibited from being sold inside a dispensary.

Frequently Asked Questions

If it feels like your head is still swimming with all these different kinds of cannabis shops, don’t worry. We have some frequently asked questions to set your mind at ease, and if you want to know more, ask your favorite budtender for assistance.

Why do you have to be 21 to go into a dispensary but not a CBD store?
The reason there is an age restriction for state-licensed dispensaries is because the products they sell contain psychoactive THC, which is highly regulated. CBD stores, however, sell products that are non-psychoactive and these are often derived from hemp, making them accessible to a broader age range, depending on local laws.

Where can I find a dispensary?
Dispensaries are typically found in states where cannabis is legal, either for medical or recreational use. You can find dispensaries by searching online, using cannabis store locators, or asking for recommendations from fellow cannabis users. Always ensure the dispensary is licensed and operates within state regulations.

Can I buy marijuana at a head shop?
No, head shops don’t sell marijuana. They sell paraphernalia and accessories related to cannabis, and they may stock CBD products. To buy marijuana, you’ll need to visit a licensed cannabis dispensary.

Visiting a Cannabis Store

It’s essential to understand the differences between cannabis stores, marijuana stores, and dispensaries so you know where to purchase your cannabis products. Next time you're curious about cannabis and where to buy what, ask your favorite budtender.

Have fun in the sun and add a zesty burst of citrus to enhance those long, lazy summer days. Make your taste buds zing with our favorite summer canna-flavors.

What Are Citrus Terpenes?

Terpenes, produced in the resin glands of the cannabis flower, are aromatic compounds that contribute to the cannabis plant’s flavor, scent, and effects. The terpenes and the cannabinoids produce the entourage effect, where these compounds work better together than separately.¹

Citrus terpenes stand out for their fresh and punchy aroma, reminiscent of summer orchards. These terps are primarily responsible for the lemony, grapefruit, and orange scents and flavors, making these cannabis strains perfect for summertime.

Here are two citrus terpenes commonly found in marijuana strains:

• Limonene - This terpene is also found in lemon, orange rind, and juniper, and used in cosmetics and cleaning products. If limonene is a dominant terpene, like in the Jet Fuel Gelato strain, you’ll find that the cannabis strain has a pleasant lemon-like smell and sweet, citrusy taste.²
  
  
• Myrcene - If you like the hoppy, peppery taste of beer, you can think myrcene! The terpene is also found in lemongrass, basil, and cardamom. In cannabis strains, like Lemon Haze and Purple Kush, myrcene is responsible for the mildly sweet, spicy, herbaceous, and earthy flavor and aroma.³ Cannabis users also report that cannabis strains high in myrcene taste like ripe mangoes, and this terpene is abundant in tropical fruit.⁴

Grapefruit Strains

Grapefruits are winter fruits, but why should you miss out on the sweet, bitter, and tangy taste during summer? With these top grapefruit strains, you won’t have to: 

Grapefruit

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

The classic Grapefruit strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid, with a 70% sativa to 30% indica ratio. Grapefruit was created by crossbreeding tropical-tasting Cinderella 99 with an unknown landrace strain. The strain has a moderate to high THC level of 20-25%, which means it is not good for beginners.⁵ Expect a grapefruit aroma and taste profile as Grapefruit is sweetly tropical.

Grapefruit Durban

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

The Grapefruit Durban strain packs a punch with 21-25% THC content.⁶ The highly sativa-dominant strain combines the traditional attributes of Durban Poison’s spicy, herbaceous, pine, and sage flavor with Grapefruit’s citrus notes. The celebrity child has an earthy, woodsy, and citrusy flavor, but you’ll also get hints of spicy grapefruit. 

Grapefruit Kush

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

The indica-dominant Grapefruit Kush strain burns slowly and tastes like a grapefruit with a hint of sweet orange and mango:⁷ that’s a treat for any cannaseur. Grapefruit Kush’s parents are Bubba and Grapefruit, and the strain has an average THC level of 22%.

Orange Strains

If you love oranges, you’re in luck. These three orange cannabis strains taste and smell just like your favorite fruit:

Sweet Tea

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Sweet Tea may sound like an afternoon drink, but it’s a sativa-dominant hybrid strain with California Orange (Cali-O), Alcatraz OG, and Space Queen for parents. It does taste like tea, but imagine sweet jasmine and orange-flavored tea with a woodsy overtone.⁸ The THC content of the Sweet Tea strain ranges from 22-24%, making it ideal for the experienced canna-enthusiast.

Alien Rock Candy

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Alien Rock Candy looks like it’s from outer space with its neon nugs, orange hairs, and amber-tinted resin. By marrying Sour Dubble and Tahoe Alien, this 80% indica-dominant hybrid strain has a sweet and citrusy aroma with a sugary aftertaste.⁹ Alien Rock Candy, also called Alien Candy, has a more pungent smell that is intensely earthy, sweet, and orangey. It’s beginner-friendly with 15-19% THC content.

Gobbstopper 

Hybrid

The Gobbstopper strain will leave you gobsmacked with its delicious flavor profile that makes your taste buds dance. Imagine a marriage between sweet berries and sour orange, and you’ll know what Gobbstopper tastes like. The strain has 50% indica and 50% sativa genetics and was bred with yummy Candy Diesel and the potent Vortex as parents. The average THC level is 14-16%.¹⁰

Lemon Strains

Tangy lemon is very refreshing on a hot summer’s day, making lemon cannabis strains a great choice during the hot months. Here are the top three lemon strains to try: 

Lemon Cherry Gelato

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Enjoying gelato by the beach during summer is a must. The Lemon Cherry Gelato strain is a flavorful affair that blends the sweet taste of cherry with bright citrus lemon notes. It has an earthy pine-fresh raspberry aroma. Lemon Cherry Gelato is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid made from crossing Sunset Sherbet, Girl Scout Cookies, and an unknown strain. The THC content ranges from average to potent (19- 29%),¹¹ so newbies should beware.

Lemon Diesel

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

As the name suggests, the Lemon Diesel strain has a pungent lemony aroma with sweet, spicy, and sour lemon flavors. The 70% indica-dominant Lemon Diesel is a creeper strain, as some enthusiasts note that the effects start later than expected. The strain is a cross between California Sour and Lost Coast OC, and it has 18-20% THC levels.¹²

Pink Lemonade

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

The Pink Lemonade strain will remind you of drinking a delicious pink lemonade to help cool you down. Lemon Skunk and Purple Kush were crossbred, making the 80% indica-dominant hybrid Pink Lemonade. The strain has an average THC content of 17-22% and a sweet berry candy taste with a hint of tangy lemon. The aroma of Pink Lemonade is different since it has a sour earth scent mixed with a sharp lemony herbaceousness.¹³

Find Your Summer Strain

These strains can make summertime much more enjoyable, as the right citrus strain can add a refreshing flavor and aroma to your day. The best cannabis strain is one that perfectly aligns with your personal preference and desired effects. Chat with your budtender to find the ideal strain for your summer needs. 

Find a Dispensary

Sources 

1. “How Terpenes Affect Cannabinoids,” CannaCon, March 1, 2018, https://cannacon.org/terpenes-affect-cannabinoids/

2. “Limonene,” National Library of Medicine, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Limonene#section=Color-Form

3. “Myrcene,” Frontiers, July 19, 2021, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.699666/full

4. “Myrcene,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/the-plant/myrcene

5. “Grapefruit Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/grapefruit

6. “Grapefruit Durban Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/grapefruit-durban

7. “Grapefruit Kush Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/grapefruit-kush

8. “Sweet Tea,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/strains/sweet-tea

9. “Alien Rock Candy Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/alien-rock-candy

10. “Gobbstopper Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/hybrid/gobbstopper

11. “Lemon Cherry Gelato Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/lemon-cherry-gelato

12. “Lemon Diesel Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/lemon-sour-diesel

13. “Pink Lemonade Marijauna Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/pink-lemonade

Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.