Can a cannabis strain send you into outer space—without making you feel spaced out? If so, the Apollo 11 strain (aka A11) is a strong contender. Combining a rush of uplifting cerebral effects including euphoria and an energizing sensation, the Apollo strain is a go-to for consumers looking to inspire some functional daytime creativity or beat back the negative sensations of stress and depression.
Keep reading for an inspiring ride into outer space, including everything you need to know about the Apollo 11 strain’s effects and terpene profiles, and Apollo genetics.
Terpenes, Aromas and Flavors
With its rich and complex aromatic profile, the Apollo strain makes for a memorable smoking experience. Its terpene profile includes such prominent players as:
- Limonene
- β-Caryophyllene
- α-Humulene
- β-Myrcene
These natural compounds give the Apollo strain a mix of flavors and scents that are often described as being reminiscent of citrus—in particular grapefruit—with darker undertones of wood, tar, and tobacco.
We’ve written about terpenes before. They’re the “essential oils” found in cannabis, and they lend different strains their distinctive flavors and aromas. Produced and secreted by the same glands that produce cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, terpenes aren’t just exclusive to cannabis, either. They’re also found in many plants, and even some insects and animals!
Effects, Genetics and Cannabinoids
With a name like Apollo 11, you might be wondering how spacey this strain really is. As we’ve written before, the names indica and sativa have a long history in the world of cannabis. Even if they’re not strictly accurate on a technical level, here at Vireo Health we feel they offer value to our customers when they’re making purchasing decisions about cannabis.
Apollo 11’s genetics are what we would call a “hybrid,” that is a cross between indica and sativa.
What does this mean for Apollo 11’s effects? Indica plants are generally described as exerting a powerfully relaxing “body high” that can help soothe achy or tired muscles and joints. Sativa strains, on the other hand, are associated with a cerebrally stimulating “head high” that can help spur creativity as well as lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression.
If we take a closer look at Apollo genetics, you’ll see why it tends towards the sativa side. Its lineage includes:
- Genius: A Jack Herer phenotype (or offshoot), this cerebrally stimulating hybrid contains roughly equal parts sativa and indica, though its effects are often described as falling more on the sativa side. In addition to an average THC content of 15 – 23%, Genius also contains roughly 2% CBD, which comes in handy when addressing such symptoms as anxiety and stress.
- Cinderella 99: Another sativa-dominant hybrid strain, it’s sometimes known as “C99,” “Cindy,” or “Cindy 99.” It’s best known for a potent and cerebral high along with sweet and fruity flavor.
With a sativa-heavy lineage combined with an uplifting terpene such as limonene, you can expect Apollo 11 to boost mood and help induce a more upbeat outlook that may be just as expansive as its cosmic name suggests. People who have tried Apollo report that its top effects include relaxed, blissful and creative feelings.
Apollo’s THC levels typically test at about 21%, which makes it a moderately potent strain. If you’re new to cannabis, remember that a little can go a long way!
You’ve also probably heard or read about CBD—the non-intoxicating “second cannabinoid” associated with a number of medical benefits. Be aware that Apollo 11 contains only minimal amounts, so if you’re looking for the benefits of CBD consider our selection of CBD-rich Vireo Spectrum™ Indigo and Blue products.
Growing the Apollo 11 Strain
With a notably fast flowering time—typically under eight weeks—the Apollo strain offers a fast track to the finish line.
Many growers rate Apollo as a strain of moderate difficulty to grow, and recommend that these plants be super-cropped (pinched off) below the main cola to allow a multi-headed bush shape to form. Sea of green (SOG) and Screen of Green (SCRoG) are other cultivation techniques commonly used with the Apollo strain.
For your time and effort you’ll be rewarded by a dense coat of shimmering trichomes and multiple colas. You can expect a moderate to above-average yield from this relatively short but productive plant.
Explore This Stellar Strain at Vireo Health
TIf you can’t tell, here at Vireo Health we’re excited about the Apollo 11 strain and its unique blend of characteristics and effects. If you’re interested in learning about other strains of cannabis we feature, visit our Cannabis Library to explore our database of sativa, indica, and hybrid strains.
Or, to get started with an order for pick up or delivery, simply select your local Vireo location and browse our live menus to see what we have in stock right now. Need help getting your medical card? Start here. We look forward to serving you!