Dark Moon by Green Lion Seeds
Unknown Indica Dominant Hybrid
Dark Moon is an indica-dominant hybrid cultivar developed by Green Lion Seeds, a breeder recognized for producing richly pigmented flowers with high resin content. Its name reflects its dark, often purple, hues and its smooth, evening-oriented effects, making it a popular choice for relaxation.
Appearance and Bud Structure
Dark Moon typically develops dense, golf-ball to egg-shaped colas characterized by a tight calyx-to-leaf ratio. Its buds are notably compact and heavy, often displaying deep purple and blue coloration, especially on the sugar leaves, which can appear near-black under cooler conditions. Extensive trichome coverage begins early in the flowering stage, resulting in a frosty appearance by mid-bloom.
The resin layer is generally uniform, indicating stable genetics. Properly cured buds exhibit a matte to glossy sheen and can retain a slightly tacky surface, suggesting preserved volatile oils. Under magnification, the resin heads are a size often favored by concentrate producers.
Aroma and Flavor Profile
The aroma of Dark Moon is complex, beginning with earthy and spicy notes, complemented by a subtle cocoa undertone. Breaking apart the buds can release a hashy incense character, followed by hints of dark fruit like blackberry or plum. A citrus peel or zest note often emerges during grinding, suggesting the presence of limonene.
On the palate, Dark Moon typically presents flavors of earthy cocoa and black pepper, with a mild berry finish. Vaporization can enhance citrus and floral notes, while combustion may bring out more chocolatey, toasty, and incense-like qualities. The mouthfeel is often described as medium-bodied with a creamy texture, and the aftertaste can linger, sometimes with a faint dark chocolate bitterness.
Effects and Consumption
Many users associate Dark Moon with a smooth, evening-leaning demeanor suitable for winding down. Its effects are often described as relaxing and balanced, positioning it as a nuanced option for nighttime use. The strain's potency, typically in the upper-mid THC range, contributes to its effectiveness for relaxation.
The consumption experience can vary based on the method. Vaporization at specific temperatures may highlight brighter fruit and floral notes, while combustion tends to emphasize richer, more resinous flavors like chocolate and incense. The lingering aftertaste is often noted, pairing well with beverages like coffee or tea.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids
While specific lab data can vary, Dark Moon's terpene profile is generally reported to be grounded in myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene. Secondary contributions from linalool and humulene are also sometimes noted. This terpene composition contributes to the strain's earthy, spicy, and subtly sweet aroma and flavor characteristics.
THC levels for Dark Moon typically fall within the 15-25% range, classifying it as a potent option. CBD content is generally less than 1%. Total terpene content under optimal growing conditions can range from 1.5% to 3.0% by weight, influencing the overall sensory experience and potential effects.
Growing Characteristics
Dark Moon is known for its indica-leaning structure, characterized by a squat stature and tight internodes, with a typical stretch of 1.3x to 1.7x after the light flip. It exhibits a propensity for deep purple coloration, particularly under cooler night temperatures, and develops dense bud architecture with significant trichome coverage. Growers often appreciate its uniform structure and bag appeal.
The cultivar is considered dependable by many growers, performing well with adequate airflow and moderate feeding. Its resin-forward nature makes it a favorite for those interested in producing extracts like rosin or bubble hash. Successive grows have reported consistency from seed to jar when cultivated with care.
Origins and Lineage
Dark Moon was bred by Green Lion Seeds, a breeder known for selecting phenotypes that exhibit both rich coloration and robust resin production. While the exact parentage is not publicly standardized and may vary, the strain's characteristics suggest influences from classic indica genetics, potentially tracing back to Afghan or Hindu Kush sources renowned for sedative body effects and resin output.
The breeding focus was on achieving anthocyanin-rich coloration alongside dense trichome heads. This combination contributes to both visual appeal and enhanced aroma and extract yields. Dark Moon is best described as an indica-dominant hybrid refined for color, resin stability, and balanced psychoactive effects.