Pineapple Express isn’t just one of my favorite movies but one of my favorite strains as well. Although this strain rose to new levels of fame thanks in part to the release of the ever-popular Pineapple Express comedy, the association between the two is not why I enjoy it so much.
Rather, the uplifting and energizing effects of this potent sativa strain, combined with its delicious tropical flavor, is why it’s one of my favorite sativas of all. The strong mental euphoria it produces isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you like feeling like your head is riding the Pineapple Express right into outer space, then this is a strain for you.
Key Takeaways
- Pineapple Express is a potent sativa cannabis strain with THC levels up to 25%.
- The Pineapple Express strain produces a strong cerebral high characterized by extreme euphoria.
- With terpenes such as caryophyllene, limonene, and ocimene, you can expect Pineapple Express to have a very fruity, citrusy, and tropical flavor profile.
Story Time: My Personal Experience with the Pineapple Express Strain
One thing I can say without a shadow of a doubt is that I definitely enjoyed the Pineapple Express cannabis strain much more than the movie itself. As for my experience with it in terms of its effects, let me say that I’m really glad that I tried this strain on a day when I didn’t have much to do. Yes, I did mention that it’s uplifting and energizing, but it’s also very potent, with potential THC levels up to 25%.
That’s really strong, and I found that it put my head in a state of extreme euphoria, and it really impaired me as well.
Doing any kind of serious thinking or problem-solving became quite difficult after a few hits, although I did feel really mentally relaxed, and I felt like this strain melted away some of my stress. Although I definitely felt uplifted and energized, which made me want to go for a long walk, it’s not a strain I would try if I had difficult tasks to accomplish during the day.
What is the Pineapple Express Strain?
The Pineapple Express strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid made by crossing two other extremely popular strains, Hawaiian and Trainwreck. It’s been a fan-favorite ever since it first became popular in 2008, in correlation with the rise of the movie of the same name. I’ll talk more about exactly what you can expect from it further below.
Pineapple Express Strain Appearance
Pineapple Express buds tend to be medium in size and somewhat light and fluffy, not dense like indica buds tend to be. They might be rounded or slightly irregular in shape, and they’re usually fairly bright green, along with a few darker accents. You’ll also see a whole lot of orange pistils that cover the outside, along with one of the thickest layers of white trichomes you’ve ever seen. It’s where all of that tasty THC is!
Pineapple Express Strain Genetics
The Pineapple Express strain is 60% sativa and 40% indica, and based on my own experiences, it’s clear that the sativa side of things really dominates this bud. I didn’t really find it to be super sedating. As for its lineage, this strain is a cross between Hawaiian and Trainwreck.
Hawaiian, is a strong sativa with THC levels upwards of 24%, a strain known for inducing feelings of happiness and creativity, and as the name suggests, it has quite the tropical flavor. We then have Trainwreck, a sativa-dominant hybrid with a respectable 17% THC level, along with flavors of pine, spice, and sweet lemons.
Pineapple Express Strain Terpenes
There are three main terpenes found in the Pineapple Express strain. These include caryophyllene, limonene, and ocimene. Let’s find out what exactly this all means.
- Caryophyllene: In terms of its flavor, you can expect caryophyllene to add a certain pepperiness, spiciness, and earthiness to the mix. As for its benefits, it has the potential to relieve symptoms associated with anxiety and pain.
- Limonene: Limonene is a terpene associated with flavors of citrus, particularly oranges and lemons. In terms of its potential benefits, it has been noted as an anxiety-reliever.
- Ocimene: Finally, we have ocimene, a terpene known for being fruity, sweet, and slightly citrusy, which is where the Pineapple Express strain gets its intense fruitiness from. This terpene is thought to be able to relieve inflammation, which can work in combination with THC, producing the so-called entourage effect.
Pineapple Express Strain Effects
In terms of its effects, keep in mind that this is a sativa-dominant strain, and sativas are often associated with feeling energized, motivated, and uplifted. Although there is more scientific research to back up the distinction of effects between indica and sativa, according to casual users, including myself, sativa strains are quite energizing and uplifting.
However, something you need to keep in mind about the Pineapple Express strain is that it can contain up to 25% THC, which is extremely strong as far as cannabis is concerned. I have quite a high tolerance as I’ve been consuming cannabis for over 15 years at this point, so 25% THC isn’t particularly intimidating.
Of course, it is very potent, and I immediately felt its cerebral effects, right from the first puff. It made my head feel like it was floating up in the clouds, and I felt an extremely strong sense of euphoria, to the point where I started giggling at virtually nothing at all.
It might not be sedating like an indica strain, its high THC level left my brain in a state where, although, I felt creative and uplifted, I was generally too high to do anything serious. The indica side did rear its head just a little bit, and although I didn’t feel sedated, my body was buzzing quite a bit.
That said, if you want a strain that’s going to blast you into outer space, then Pineapple Express is certainly something I’d recommend.
Remember, however, that for people with lower tolerance levels, such high THC levels may induce feelings of anxiety and paranoia. Although, seeing as both caryophyllene and limonene are thought to reduce symptoms of anxiety, the chances of you suffering paranoia and anxiety after smoking this strain should be fairly limited unless you severely overestimate your THC tolerance.
Pineapple Express Strain Reported Flavors
What I really enjoy about this strain is its fruity flavor, characterized by a bright citrus punch right on the first puff, followed by accents of earth, pine, and pineapple on the exhale. If you like strains that taste like you’re sitting on a tropical beach and sipping on a nice cocktail, then Pineapple Express is a strain I’d recommend trying.
Pineapple Express Strain Growing Info
Pineapple Express takes just up to nine weeks to flower, which isn’t that long period this generally results in a high level of productivity, with somewhere up to five pounds per plant when grown outdoors, and around 700 grams per meter squared when grown indoors.
To grow it well, use nutrient rich soil that is well-drained, and make sure not to over water this strain, as it is somewhat susceptible to root rot.
Who Would I Recommend the Pineapple Express Strain For?
The Pineapple Express strain is one that I would recommend for more seasoned cannabis connoisseurs, for those who have a decent bit of experience and tolerance to THC.
Remember that Pineapple Express can contain up to 25% THC, and that’s no small number.
If you want to feel energized and uplifted, while also experiencing an extremely strong euphoric cerebral high, then Pineapple Express is for you, as long as you aren’t afraid of that high THC level.
How and When I Like to Enjoy This Strain
Like I said before, although this strain is a bit uplifting and energizing, it also produces such a strong cerebral high that it’s not something I would smoke if I had important tasks to accomplish throughout the rest of the day. It is, however, a great daytime strain if you just want to relax, or even go outside for a bit of a nature walk.
I personally like smoking this strain on a Saturday morning when I have nothing left to do for the rest of the day, especially when I feel like going outside on a long walk. It’s also a strain I enjoy when I’m social with other people, because the euphoric effects it produces tend to make me feel quite talkative and giggly as well, which is great for social situations.
Strains Like the Pineapple Express Strain
If you are looking for other nice sativa strains but aren’t a huge fan of pineapple, you could always try other tasty options like Lemon Haze, Green Crack, Sour Diesel, and Strawberry Cough.
Where to Find the Pineapple Express Strain Online
If you’re looking for awesome strains like Pineapple Express, don’t hesitate to check out the massive selection of top-quality buds and products available at 21 Cannabis, with the Pineapple Express 2ml Vape Cartridges and the Pineapple Express 3ml Disposable Vapes both being fan favorites.
Final Thoughts
At the end of it all, I’d say that Pineapple Express is a fantastic strain for anyone who has experimented with other sativas of lower THC levels, and now wants to try something much stronger. With 25% THC, Pineapple Express certainly packs a punch that will make you giggle the day away.
Pineapple Express Strain: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pineapple Express Indica Or Sativa?
Pineapple Express is a sativa-dominant strain. Although, you might experience some indica effects as well.
Is Pineapple Express Good For Sleep?
Pineapple Express is a sativa and, therefore, not the best choice for sleep.
Is Pineapple Express Really Strong?
Yes, Pineapple Express is very strong, as it can contain THC levels up to 25%, and we highly suggest beginners look for something else.