The Leaf Index
Vol. IA field guide to cannabis cultivarsleafly.cc
No. 7208Indica

Temple Of The Dawg

Chemdog × Temple-leaning line

Temple Of The Dawg is a boutique indica hybrid celebrated for its complex aroma and resinous flower. It has gained recognition through word-of-mouth in niche markets, distinguishing itself with a unique blend of fuel-like and incense-like qualities.

EffectsRelaxing Potentially Sedating
May help withStress
AromaCitrusDieselFloralGrapeGrapefruitLavenderLemonOrangeIncenseSandalwoodWoodySpicyPineBlack Tea

Appearance and Structure

Temple Of The Dawg typically develops conical to spear-shaped colas with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, which aids in trimming. The buds are often medium to large, dense, and feel resinous, indicating significant trichome coverage. Pistils can range from deep orange to copper, and sugar leaves are usually olive to forest green. Cooler temperatures late in flowering may introduce lavender or plum hues.

Under magnification, abundant, bulbous trichome heads are visible, with a majority being cloudy at maturity, and some amber ones depending on harvest timing. The surface can appear frosted, particularly on the colas after fan leaves are removed. Mature colas generally show minimal foxtailing if environmental heat is managed, and well-fed plants often have broad bracts that contribute to bud weight.

Aroma and Flavor Spectrum

The aroma of Temple Of The Dawg is a prominent feature, often described as a blend of diesel and petrol notes from its Chem heritage, combined with temple incense and sandalwood characteristics from its Temple lineage. Secondary scents may include pine resin, black tea, and subtle dried fruit notes in certain phenotypes. The overall scent is bold and layered, with the incense quality softening the sharper fuel notes.

On the palate, initial flavors tend toward sour diesel and skunk, complemented by a peppery cedar undertone. As the experience progresses, a resinous woodiness can emerge, reminiscent of frankincense or myrrh in phenotypes with stronger incense notes. Some consumers detect a bright citrus rind flavor, possibly grapefruit or lemon pith. The finish is typically long-lasting, leaving a lingering interplay of fuel and wood on the palate.

Effects

While specific effects are not detailed in the source, the indica classification suggests that Temple Of The Dawg may provide relaxing and potentially sedating effects. Its complex aroma and flavor profile are often highlighted as key consumer attractions.

Terpenes and Cannabinoids

The cannabinoid profile indicates a THC content ranging from 18% to 26% and CBD levels below 1%. While specific terpene percentages are not provided, the aroma and flavor profile suggest the presence of Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Pinene, and Humulene, contributing to its characteristic diesel, incense, citrus, and woody notes.

Growing Characteristics

Temple Of The Dawg is noted for its resin-forward flowers, dense colas, and high trichome coverage. Growers appreciate its assertive aroma. The plant structure is medium-tall with moderate stretch in early flowering, featuring good lateral branching that responds well to training techniques like topping and LST. It requires vigilant humidity control, especially late in bloom.

Phenotype variability is common, with some tending towards gas dominance and others towards incense. Both typically produce dense, trichome-rich colas. The 'Chem-leaner' pheno may be stickier and finish slightly faster, while the 'Temple-leaner' might stretch more and show purple hues under cool conditions. Selection by cultivators often focuses on aroma density and resin coverage.

Origins and Lineage

Temple Of The Dawg is a boutique hybrid with a lineage that likely combines the Chemdog/Chemdawg family ('Dawg') with a 'Temple' lineage known for incense-like aromatics. The exact originator is unclear, with some sources pointing to West Coast breeders crossing Chem strains with incense-heavy lines, while others suggest Pacific Northwest hobby breeders. This mixed provenance contributes to phenotype variability.

The 'Temple' side may draw from Nepalese temple hash heritage or modern incense-heavy hybrids, contributing woody, peppery, and floral spice notes. The 'Dawg' side, linked to the 1990s Chemdog family, is known for raw potency, fuel aromas, and high resin production. The strain was likely bred to merge Chem's potency and diesel nose with an exotic, woody spice from the Temple side, reflecting a late-2010s craft focus on terpene complexity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the THC and CBD content of Temple Of The Dawg?
Temple Of The Dawg typically contains 18-26% THC and less than 1% CBD.
What are the dominant aromas and flavors of Temple Of The Dawg?
The strain is known for a complex profile featuring diesel, petrol, and incense, with underlying notes of sandalwood, wood, spice, and sometimes citrus or pine.
What is the reported lineage of Temple Of The Dawg?
It is believed to be a hybrid cross involving the Chemdog family ('Dawg') and a 'Temple' lineage, though specific parent strains are not definitively documented.
Are there significant variations between Temple Of The Dawg phenotypes?
Yes, phenotype variability is common, with some tending to be more dominant in gas-like Chem traits and others in incense-like Temple traits. This can affect aroma, flavor, and finishing times.