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8 Best Hybrid Strains to Try in 2024

sativa and indica leaf, trophy on a purple/green gradient background

Article written by

Tina MagrabiSenior Content Writer

Content reviewed by

Dr. Lewis Jassey

Table of contents

  1. Wedding Cake
  2. Northern Lights
  3. OG Kush
  4. Apple Fritter
  5. Blue Dream
  6. Fruity Pebbles OG
  7. Rainbow Beltz
  8. Super Lemon Haze

Hybrid strains are made by crossing sativa strains with indica strains. In fact, most cannabis strains are hybrids, as there are very few pure sativa or indica strains. In fact, the term “strains” is inaccurate, as even a particular variety from a specific part of the world can grow in both sativa-like and indica-like ways, depending on the environment it was grown in.

Sativa strains are known for their energizing effects, while indicas are known for being calming. The full picture is more complicated, but most people associate invigoration with sativas and relaxation with indicas. Then, what are the effects of hybrid strains that combine sativa and indica lineage? 

In the past, hybrid varieties of cannabis were thought to have both energizing and relaxing effects, usually followed by the other. However, as we now know, the cannabinoid and terpene profile is a better indicator of effects. “Sativa” and “indica” distinctions are not the best way to determine effects.

Still, the sativa, indica, hybrid classifications are being used in dispensaries. There is some value in looking at what hybrid strains consumers are choosing above others. We based this years list on 2023’s Cannabis Cup winners, honorable mentions, and New Frontier data on consumer purchases in 2023. Learn more about hybrid cannabis strains as we present our top eight list for 2024. 

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Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake, also known as Triangle Mints #23, is an indica-dominant hybrid. This strain has a sweet, peppery, vanilla, earthy, and lemon flavor profile. Wedding Cake’s high THC content may make it helpful in managing chronic pain, insomnia, and appetite loss. 

Northern Lights

Northern Lights (NL) contains relatively little CBD and produces euphoric, sedative, “couch lock” effects. Northern Lights has an earthy, piney flavor and aroma and euphoric, relaxing effects. It is ideal for managing stress, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain.

OG Kush

The Sunshine State takes credit for developing OG Kush in the 1990s. Cultivators in Florida crossed Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Hindu Kush to create this high THC (18%) and no CBD (0%) strain. Lemony OG Kush produces a head high and stress-relieving effects on the body. 

Apple Fritter

Apple Fritter is a multi-award-winning strain, mainly due to its strength and delicious flavor. The strain is named after the famously sweet apple pie pastry, as its creators found it closely mimics the sweet taste. It’s sweet and apple-like on the inhale, with notes of vanilla on the exhale. It has a 50/50 indica-to-sativa ratio. Its unique terpene and cannabinoid profile make Apple Fritter an ideal strain (i.e., cultivar) for managing inflammation, chronic pain, and insomnia.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is one of the most popular varieties of cannabis. It is a favorite among novice and veteran cannabis consumers due to its pleasant, sweet berries, sometimes peppery flavor, and manageable effects. This varietal of cannabis could help manage chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.

Fruity Pebbles OG

Fruity Pebbles, also referred to as Fruity Pebbles OG and Fruity OG, is a hybrid strain. It is reported to be one the most enjoyable and popular strains on the market, but it’s one of the more difficult strains to get hold of due to its genetics. The combination of euphoric effects with Fruity Pebbles’ smooth flavor is reported to remedy stress and insomnia.

Rainbow Beltz

Rainbow Belts is known for its uplifting and euphoric effects, but beginners should approach with caution due to its potent psychoactive properties. Rainbow Belts is reported to have a sweet, fruity, and slightly sour flavor profile, reminiscent of a bag of mixed fruit candy. The high THC content in Rainbow Belts may make it beneficial for those dealing with chronic pain, stress, depression, and lack of appetite.

Super Lemon Haze

Super Lemon Haze is a popular strain created by Arjan of Green House Seeds. He began with his previous famous Super Silver Haze, which won three consecutive Cannabis Cups in 1997, 1998, and 1999. He carefully bred it in a three-way cross of Lemon Haze, Lemon Skunk #1, and Northern Lights #5. The result was a sativa-dominant hybrid with sweet lemon and tart flavors.

Experience the benefits of hybrid strains with a medical marijuana card obtained through Leafwell. Our doctors are here to meet with you online in our virtual clinic and help you apply for your MMJ card today.

Updated : 01/17/2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the strongest hybrid strain?

Bruce Banner #3 and Chiquita Banana are two of the strongest hybrid cannabis strains, as they have been developed with THC in mind. Hybrids are often developed with vigor, pest resistance, and cannabinoid content in mind, with many being developed specifically for their THC or CBD content. A strong hybrid strain is often characterized by high or mid-range THC content and many other cannabinoids and terpenes. However, cannabis is a natural substance with lots of variation, so varieties that usually have moderate THC content may, on occasion, have high THC content.

Which strain is better, hybrid or indica?

The better strain is always the one that works better for you. Plus, it can be difficult to differentiate between hybrids and indicas; sometimes, there might be little-to-no difference. In fact, some indica-leaning strains like Wedding Cake and Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) fall under the hybrid umbrella because they are not pure. The same is true of many sativa strains, like Blue Dream, which is not 100% sativa. Experiment with different strains to see which helps you meet your health and wellness goals.

Should you try a hybrid strain if you're a beginner?

If you’re a beginner, you might consider a CBD-dominant hybrid strain. Starting with a hybrid strain that tips more toward THC dominance can be risky and more likely to lead to side effects. Speak with a qualified budtender at a licensed dispensary to see which marijuana strain could work best for you as a beginner.

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