A-13 X C99 by Dutch Flowers
Apollo 13 × Cinderella 99
A-13 x C99 is a predominantly sativa hybrid developed by Dutch Flowers, created by crossing Apollo 13 with Cinderella 99. This cultivar is recognized for its swift flowering cycle, clear-headed effects, and bright, tropical aromatics, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.
Appearance
A-13 x C99 exhibits sativa-like vigor while maintaining shorter internodes than many traditional hazes. Its plants develop quickly with lateral branching and often produce multiple tops. The leaves are typically medium to narrow in width. In flower, the strain produces elongated spear-shaped colas with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, particularly in phenotypes leaning towards Cinderella 99. The buds are usually a lime to forest green color and are covered in a dense layer of frosty trichomes, often appearing 'sugared' as they mature. Pistils change from cream to deeper tangerine hues near harvest.
A hallmark of this strain is its significant trichome coverage. Mature trichome heads are large, making them suitable for various extraction methods. Growers often observe trichomes transitioning from glassy to cloudy between weeks seven and eight, signaling optimal harvest timing. For a more uplifting effect, harvest is typically done when trichomes are mostly cloudy; for a more pronounced body sensation, growers may wait for a small percentage of amber trichomes.
Aroma & Flavor
The aroma of A-13 x C99 is complex and layered, initially presenting sweet notes of pineapple, ripe mango, and candied citrus. These fruity top notes are often complemented by fresh herbs and pine needles. As the flowers cure, the bouquet deepens, revealing hints of incense, black pepper, and a subtle anise-like quality, reflecting the influence of Apollo 13. Breaking open a cured bud releases a more intense wave of tropical esters, accompanied by a clean, green scent reminiscent of crushed basil.
On the palate, the strain offers a bright tropical introduction with flavors of pineapple, mango, and sweet grapefruit. The experience transitions on the mid-palate to lemon zest and green herbs, often with an underlying pine-resin note that balances the sweetness. The finish is characterized by a lingering peppery spice and a light incense note. Vaporizing at lower temperatures tends to emphasize the fruity esters and citrus, while higher temperatures can bring out more peppery and resinous notes.
Effects
A-13 x C99 is known for inducing a lively and creative onset, providing a buoyant and clear-headed experience that typically lasts for two to three hours. The effects are described as cerebral and uplifting, promoting focus and a sense of euphoria. This strain is often favored for daytime use due to its sustained energy and lack of significant sedation. The experience tapers off cleanly, rarely leading to a heavy crash.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
This strain generally tests high in THC content, with levels often exceeding 24%, while CBD remains below 1%. The terpene profile is notable for its complexity, often featuring terpinolene as a dominant compound. It is also supported by significant levels of myrcene, ocimene, limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha-pinene. This combination contributes to the strain's distinctive aroma and its psychoactive effects.
Growing
A-13 x C99 is considered a relatively fast-finishing sativa hybrid, with most plants completing their flowering cycle in approximately 56 to 63 days (8–9 weeks). This is considerably faster than many traditional equatorial sativa genetics. The strain demonstrates vigorous growth and dependable yields, making it suitable for indoor cultivation. It exhibits shorter internodes than many hazes and develops multiple tops efficiently after topping. Growers report consistency in indoor environments, allowing for uniform canopy development and effective space utilization.
Origins & Lineage
Developed by Dutch Flowers, A-13 x C99 is a cross between Apollo 13 and Cinderella 99. Both parent strains trace their lineage back to genetics from Brothers Grimm, including the famed Jack Herer and Shiva Skunk families. This heritage contributes to the strain's terpinolene-forward signature and its energetic mood. The breeder's intention was to combine the speed and fruit-forward clarity of Cinderella 99 with the focused uplift of Apollo 13, stabilizing a sativa experience suitable for indoor growing cycles while retaining the euphoric qualities of classic sativa lines.