Apollo 11
Jack Herer (Genius phenotype) × Cinderella 99
Apollo 11 is a hybrid cultivar developed in the late 1990s by Brothers Grimm Seeds, aiming for a sativa-forward experience in a compact, fast-finishing plant. It combines the clarity of Jack Herer genetics with the fruit-forward notes and rapid flowering of the Cinderella family, becoming a favorite for daytime creativity.
Appearance
Apollo 11 typically produces medium-sized, dense spear-shaped buds with a light green base color accented by orange pistils. The calyxes form elongated colas that may exhibit slight foxtailing under intense conditions, and are generously coated in stalked glandular trichomes, giving them a frosted appearance. Sugar leaves are usually narrow to medium and can develop subtle lilac or silvery hues in cooler temperatures, though deep purples are uncommon. The overall bud structure is balanced, avoiding excessive leafiness while maintaining visual appeal and good shape after trimming and curing.
Aroma & Flavor
The aroma of Apollo 11 is often characterized by terpinolene-dominant notes of citrus rind, sweet herbs, and fresh pine, frequently complemented by tropical fruit undertones reminiscent of pineapple or mango. Secondary aromatic layers include hints of basil, lemongrass, and floral incense. Upon grinding, the bouquet intensifies, revealing a vivid interplay of citrus peel and pine. Flavors can range from candy-like sweetness to bright grapefruit zest and resinous wood, depending on the specific phenotype.
Effects
Apollo 11 is known for delivering a clear, cerebral experience that encourages creativity and energy, making it suitable for daytime use. The effects are often described as uplifting and mentally stimulating, providing a vivid head high that is typically layered and not overwhelming. This sativa-leaning profile is balanced by grower-friendly traits, offering a pleasant experience without heavy sedation.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
Commonly found terpenes in Apollo 11 include terpinolene, myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, pinene, humulene, and ocimene. Terpinolene often leads, contributing to the strain's piney and citrus notes, while other terpenes add complexity. THC levels typically range from 15-25%, with CBD content below 1%. Total terpene content in well-grown flowers generally falls between 1.5-3.0% of dry weight, though this can vary by phenotype and cultivation conditions.
Growing
Apollo 11 is recognized for its manageable growth habit, featuring medium vigor, good lateral branching, and a relatively compact stature compared to lankier sativas. It finishes flowering indoors in approximately 50-63 days (7-9 weeks). The strain is considered moderately easy to grow, with growers often reporting a quick-finishing cycle and good trichome coverage, making it suitable for indoor cultivation. Yields can vary based on phenotype and growing conditions.
Origins & Lineage
Developed by Brothers Grimm Seeds in the late 1990s, Apollo 11 is a hybrid cross primarily between the 'Genius' clone, a potent phenotype associated with Jack Herer, and a Cinderella line, often Cinderella 99. The goal was to combine the cerebral clarity and fast flowering of these parent strains into a resinous, aromatic, and quick-finishing plant suitable for indoor growing. This lineage contributes to its sativa-leaning effects and fruit-forward terpene profile.