The Leaf Index
Vol. IA field guide to cannabis cultivarsleafly.cc
No. 6653Sativa

Summer Haze

Haze × Skunk (potential) × Northern Lights (potential)

Summer Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid celebrated for its sunny disposition and uplifting mental energy, making it a popular choice for daytime activities. It is a member of the extensive Haze family, often characterized by its bright, citrus-forward aroma and a clear, euphoric headspace.

AromaCitrusPineHerbalIncenseTropical FruitLemonMango

Appearance and Bud Structure

Plants typically exhibit a tall, lanky sativa structure with long internodes and narrow leaves. During flowering, significant vertical growth is common. Mature buds are elongated, sometimes showing mild foxtailing, and tend to be medium in density with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio. Bud coloration usually ranges from lime to forest green, adorned with copper-orange pistils and a frosty trichome coating.

Aroma and Flavor

The aroma is predominantly bright and summery, with prominent citrus zest layered over notes of pine, fresh herbs, and sweet tropical fruit. A fragrant, almost effervescent terpinolene aroma often leads, evoking lemon-lime soda and mango peel. Underlying notes of incense, cedar, and a touch of peppered spice from caryophyllene and humulene add complexity.

On the palate, Summer Haze mirrors its aroma, delivering zesty citrus on the inhale with a pine-herbal finish. Vaporization highlights sweet, sparkling fruit notes, while higher temperatures introduce pepper and woody hop undertones. A well-cured product smooths into candy-citrus flavors with a cedar and green tea aftertaste.

Effects

Summer Haze is known for delivering a soaring mental energy that is tailor-made for daytime use and creative endeavors. It provides a clear, euphoric headspace, promoting focus and an uplifting sensation without heavy sedation. This makes it suitable for outdoor activities, social gatherings, and engaging in music.

Terpenes and Cannabinoids

While specific percentages vary, terpinolene is often a dominant terpene, contributing to the strain's citrus and pine characteristics. Other frequently present terpenes include limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, pinene, humulene, ocimene, and nerolidol, which contribute to the complex aroma and flavor profile. The THC content is reported at 24%, with CBD levels below 1%.

Origins and Lineage

Summer Haze belongs to the broader Haze family, which originated in California in the 1970s from equatorial landrace genetics. This lineage was later refined by Dutch breeders. Summer Haze specifically likely emerged from selections emphasizing sunny, citrus-forward phenotypes, possibly through crosses designed to moderate the extreme height and flowering times of traditional Haze, such as Haze crossed with Skunk or Northern Lights.

Growing Characteristics

This strain typically displays tall, lanky sativa architecture and a long flowering period. Yield potential is strong for experienced growers, with indoor yields ranging from 450 to 650 g per square meter and outdoor plants capable of producing 500 g to 1.5 kg. Careful management of canopy height and environmental conditions is recommended.

Frequently asked questions

What type of strain is Summer Haze?
Summer Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid.
What are the dominant terpenes in Summer Haze?
Terpinolene is often dominant, contributing citrus and pine notes, alongside others like pinene and limonene.
What effects can I expect from Summer Haze?
Users often report cerebral, euphoric, and focused effects, making it suitable for daytime activities.
Is Summer Haze suitable for beginners?
Due to its tall growth and long flowering time, it may be more suitable for experienced growers.