Black Haze
Haze × Black Domina × Black Afghan × Blackberry Kush derivative
Black Haze is a sativa-leaning hybrid that combines classic Haze genetics with dark-pigmented cannabis varieties, often resulting in deep purple or near-black hues in mature flowers. While specific lineage can vary between breeders, the common thread is a Haze backbone crossed with an anthocyanin-rich parent. This cross results in a strain with a complex aroma profile and effects often described as cerebral and uplifting.
Appearance
Black Haze plants typically exhibit narrow leaflets and flexible stems, characteristic of their sativa heritage. During the flowering stage, particularly under cooler nighttime temperatures (55–62°F or 13–17°C) in the final weeks, darker phenotypes can develop purple to almost black coloration in the calyxes and sugar leaves. Resin coverage is generally abundant, with Haze-dominant expressions often forming long, fox-tailed colas.
Plant height can vary significantly based on phenotype and growing conditions. Indoors, plants may range from 80–140 cm in a managed setup, potentially reaching 120–180 cm with longer vegetative periods. Outdoors, plants can grow considerably larger, potentially exceeding 200–300 cm. Bud density differs, with indica-leaning phenotypes producing more compact flowers, while sativa-leaning ones tend to develop airier, spear-like buds.
Aroma and Flavor
The aroma of Black Haze is a complex blend, merging the classic spicy incense, citrus, and wood notes of Haze with darker undertones of berry and pepper. Terpinolene often provides a piney-citrus high note, complemented by floral notes from ocimene and sweet, tropical hints. The darker parentage frequently contributes scents of blackberry, plum skin, and cracked black pepper, stemming from terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and humulene.
Upon grinding, the bouquet can deepen to include notes of herbal anise, eucalyptus, and a resinous varnish. Spice-forward variations might present clove and cinnamon, while fruit-forward phenotypes emphasize blueberry syrup and grape flavors, sometimes finishing with a candy-like citrus note. The flavor profile mirrors the aroma, with bright citrus and incense on the inhale, followed by a peppery berry exhale.
Effects
Black Haze is generally characterized by its sativa-dominant effects, often leading to a cerebral and uplifting experience. Consumers report feeling more focused and talkative, making it a potential choice for social settings or creative endeavors. The strain's effects are thought to be modulated by its terpene profile, with higher levels of terpinolene and limonene potentially contributing to a more effervescent and mentally stimulating sensation.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids
Black Haze typically presents as a THC-dominant strain with minimal CBD content, consistent with its Haze lineage. THC levels commonly range from 17% to 25%, with some well-cultivated examples testing higher. CBD levels are usually below 1%, often in the 0.05% to 0.6% range, while CBG may be present between 0.2% and 1.2%.
The terpene profile often leans towards terpinolene, contributing citrus and pine notes, alongside myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, ocimene, limonene, alpha-pinene, and humulene. Minor terpenes like linalool and nerolidol may also be present, particularly in fruitier phenotypes. Total terpene content in well-grown flower can range from 1.5% to over 3.5%, significantly influencing the strain's aroma, flavor, and perceived effects.
Growing Characteristics
Black Haze typically exhibits significant vertical growth, especially early in flowering, requiring management techniques like topping and trellising for indoor cultivation. Flowering time can vary depending on the specific phenotype, with some finishing in as little as 8-9 weeks, while others may require 10-13 weeks, reflecting the influence of its Haze and indica/hybrid parents. Achieving the characteristic dark coloration is often dependent on exposing the plants to cooler nighttime temperatures during the final weeks of bloom.
Origins and Lineage
The exact genetic makeup of Black Haze can differ among breeders, as the name has been applied to various crosses. However, the common foundation involves combining classic Haze genetics, which trace back to a blend of Mexican, Thai, South American, and South Indian landraces, with dark-pigmented cannabis varieties. These darker parents are often indica or hybrid strains such as Black Domina, Black Afghan, or Blackberry Kush derivatives, selected for their deep coloration and resin production.