Melonade by Midwest Best
Unknown Indica-heritage × Unknown Citrus/Melon varieties
Melonade is an indica-dominant hybrid strain developed by Midwest Best, gaining popularity for its distinct dessert-like aroma and flavor profile. It is recognized for its potent resin production and has been noted for its inclusion in influential cannabis guides.
Appearance and Structure
Melonade flowers are characterized by their compact structure and high contrast coloration, featuring green calyxes interspersed with vibrant orange pistils. The buds are densely coated in trichomes, giving them a silvery appearance. They often form in small, tightly stacked clusters, resulting in golf-ball to egg-shaped nugs that feel heavier than their size suggests due to their density and low leaf-to-flower ratio.
The plants typically exhibit strong lateral branching and broad leaves, indicative of their indica heritage, though they display hybrid-like vigor. Indoor cultivation often results in moderate internodal spacing and a manageable stretch after the flowering flip, making them suitable for controlled environments.
Aroma and Flavor
The aroma of Melonade is a prominent blend of cool melon candy, bright citrus zest, and a subtle hint of vanilla cream. Initial notes are often compared to sherbet or Italian ice, with a clean, lasting perfume. As the cure progresses, the melon scent deepens to a riper cantaloupe, while the citrus becomes a sweeter, candied lemon.
On the palate, Melonade delivers layered flavors of candied lemon-lime and honeydew melon, followed by creamy melon smoothie notes with hints of vanilla custard. The exhale offers a clean finish with notes of peppered citrus rind and a faint herbal quality, preventing the sweetness from becoming overwhelming. This balanced profile is often described as refreshing and dessert-forward but not cloying.
Effects
While classified as an indica, Melonade is reported to offer a duality in its effects, with some users experiencing uplift alongside its indica heritage. It is noted for providing dessert-like flavors without leading to heavy sedation, striking a balance that appeals to consumers seeking enjoyable taste without significant drowsiness.
The strain's consistent flavor and aroma are preserved through various consumption methods, including vaporization at specific temperatures to maintain its nuanced profile. The dense resin production also makes it a candidate for solventless extraction.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids
Melonade is known for its robust terpene profile, contributing to its distinct aroma and flavor. Key terpenes identified include Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Humulene, Ocimene, and Valencene, which collectively create its signature melon, citrus, and creamy notes.
Lab analysis typically places Melonade in the high-THC category, with reported levels often ranging between 20% and 27%. CBD content is generally less than 1%. The strain's substantial terpene load, estimated between 1.5-3.0% by weight in well-grown flower, supports its vivid flavor and aromatic expression.
Origins and Lineage
Melonade was bred by Midwest Best and emerged from the trend of dessert-flavored cannabis breeding in the United States. It gained significant traction on social media in the late 2010s and began appearing in dispensaries across the Midwest and West Coast by the early 2020s. Its appeal has led to its inclusion in various cannabis buyer guides and budtender recommendations.
The precise parentage is often described as an indica-heritage dessert hybrid, with community lineage charts suggesting connections to modern citrus and candy-forward melon varieties. Midwest Best's original selection is noted for its indica heritage, which influences its dense bud structure and resin production, even as some phenotypes express hybrid vigor and uplifting qualities. Its genetics have been utilized by other breeders in crosses, contributing to its reputation as a valuable genetic building block.