Blues Bx2 by Underground Originals
Blues
Blues Bx2 is an indica-dominant hybrid developed by Underground Originals, a UK-based collective. This strain is a refined version of a classic British underground selection, backcrossed twice to preserve its signature traits. It is recognized for its potent aroma and dense, resinous buds.
Appearance
Blues Bx2 typically produces compact, sturdy plants with medium spacing between nodes. The buds are characterized by a calyx-forward structure, forming conical to chunky colas with densely packed smaller buds along the branches. It features a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, which aids in trimming and contributes to its visual appeal. The dried flowers display a deep green coloration, often with emerald and olive undertones, accented by bright orange pistils. Dense trichome coverage gives the buds a frosty appearance, and a thick resin layer makes them feel tacky and weighty.
Some phenotypes may exhibit subtle purpling or bluish hues on the sugar leaves, particularly when exposed to cooler night temperatures during the late flowering stage. Well-cultivated examples maintain bud integrity, offering a balance between density and a non-rock-hard texture, which is favorable for drying and terpene preservation.
Aroma & Flavor
The aroma of Blues Bx2 is dominated by a strong, skunky, and resinous profile, often described as 'dank.' This is supported by a sharp, earthy backbone that can sometimes lean towards a garlic-onion funk, depending on the specific phenotype and post-harvest handling. Accompanying these pungent notes are sweeter undertones, which can manifest as berry, cream, or subtle floral scents. The aroma evolves from a sweet, earthy musk when at rest to a louder skunk with spicy and faint citrus-lime notes when ground.
The flavor mirrors the aroma, delivering an initial taste of earthy skunk and toasted spice, followed by a lingering sweetness reminiscent of stewed berries. Some variations may present a creamier profile with hints of vanilla or cocoa, especially after a prolonged cure. The mouthfeel is rich and resinous, coating the palate. When vaporized at lower temperatures, citrus and herbal notes are more pronounced, while higher temperatures bring out deeper skunk and spice characteristics. The aftertaste can persist for several minutes, often evolving towards sweeter notes.
Effects
Blues Bx2 is known to provide balanced effects, leaning towards a focused experience. While specific details on the onset and duration are not provided, the strain is generally associated with a mood-lifting quality. Consumers may experience a sense of mental clarity and enhanced focus, making it suitable for activities that require concentration.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
The terpene profile of Blues Bx2 is suggested to be led by Myrcene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Humulene, and Limonene or Ocimene. The presence of Beta-Caryophyllene is indicated by peppery, tingling notes, while Myrcene contributes herbal tea-like qualities. Limonene and Ocimene may add brightness and citrus notes. The cannabinoid profile indicates a THC content ranging from 19-21%, with CBD levels below 1%.
Origins & Lineage
Blues Bx2 was developed by the UK-based breeder collective Underground Originals. It is a modern refinement of a classic British underground strain known as 'Blues,' which was popular in the UK during the 1990s and early 2000s. The strain is characterized by its pungent, clone-only heritage, often associated with the UK skunk family. Underground Originals aimed to preserve the original dank character while improving uniformity and grower-friendliness by backcrossing the original Blues mother twice (Bx2) to the original female parent.
This backcrossing strategy aims to increase the genetic contribution of the original Blues mother, enhancing the expression of her core traits, including aroma, structure, and effects. The lineage is rooted in the UK's underground breeding scene, where documentation was often sparse, leading to a mystique around its precise ancestry. The Bx2 designation signifies a significant stabilization towards the recurrent parent's characteristics.
Growing
Blues Bx2 is noted for its improved vigor and repeatability compared to its heritage predecessors, making it more grower-friendly for modern cultivation. The plants are typically compact and sturdy, with medium internode lengths. The strain is well-suited for growers seeking to achieve the potent, skunky aroma characteristic of vintage UK strains while benefiting from improved agronomic traits. Careful post-harvest handling, including a slow cure at 58-62% relative humidity, is recommended to preserve the complex aroma and flavor profile.