The Leaf Index
Vol. IA field guide to cannabis cultivarsleafly.cc
No. 1733Indica

The Sloth 88 G13hashplant Clone X G13black Widow F4

'88 G13/Hashplant clone × G13/Black Widow F4

The Sloth is an indica-dominant hybrid created as a modern homage to late 1980s cannabis genetics. It combines the potent, resinous '88 G13/Hashplant clone with a stabilized G13/Black Widow F4. This cultivar is designed for contemporary expectations of potency and aroma while retaining a vintage character.

EffectsCalm Relaxing Restful Stillness
May help withInflammation
AromaEarthyCedarPepperyPine ResinLemonIncense-likeWoodySpicy

Appearance and Morphology

The Sloth typically presents with medium-height plants featuring broad leaves and thick stems, indicative of its Hashplant lineage. The internodal spacing is tight, remaining relatively compact even during flowering, which contributes to uniform cola development. Buds are often conical to blocky in shape with a favorable calyx-to-leaf ratio. Coloration is generally deep green with bronze to coppery orange pistils. Some phenotypes may exhibit muted purple hues in the sugar leaves under cooler temperatures, and the buds are characterized by exceptionally heavy trichome coverage, giving them a frosted appearance.

The calyxes are swollen and coated in resin, with bracts that are typically 4–6 mm at maturity. The trichome heads are medium to large, often in the 90–120 μm range, making them suitable for mechanical separation. The dried flower is dense, requiring attention to airflow to manage internal moisture.

Aroma and Flavor

Before grinding, The Sloth emits an aroma dominated by earthy notes, dry cedar, and spicy pepper, with underlying hints of pine resin and a subtle lemon oil undertone, particularly in phenotypes with stronger Black Widow influence. The overall scent profile is often described as incense-like, reminiscent of old-world hashish.

Upon grinding, the aroma deepens, revealing notes of black pepper, crushed bay leaf, and warm woods, complemented by flashes of citrus rind. Some expressions may also present a savory, umami facet, akin to roasted nuts. The flavor on the palate mirrors the aroma, featuring a hash and wood core layered with peppercorn and pine sap. The inhale is smooth, with a gentle lemon sparkle, while the exhale is heavier, settling into cedar, earth, and warm spice with a lingering resinous finish.

Effects

True to its name, The Sloth is known for its profoundly unhurried and body-heavy effects, encouraging deep relaxation and stillness. It is bred to deliver a potent, indica-traditional experience that promotes rest. The strain's influence is often described as calming, making it suitable for unwinding.

Terpenes and Cannabinoids

The Sloth typically exhibits robust cannabinoid potential, with reported total cannabinoid content frequently falling between 22–30% and THCA levels ranging from 20–28%. Post-decarboxylation, THC content usually ranges from 18–26%. CBD is generally present at less than 1%, with minor cannabinoids like CBGa and CBCa also detected in smaller percentages. THCV is usually negligible.

The dominant terpenes often include beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and humulene, contributing significantly to the strain's aroma and effects. Limonene and alpha-pinene are also commonly present, adding brighter aromatic and potentially uplifting notes that can balance the sedative qualities.

Growing Characteristics

The Sloth is considered to have manageable cultivation characteristics, with breeders intentionally improving structure and vigor over classic hashplant genetics. Plants typically exhibit moderate stretch during flowering, often between 1.4x and 1.8x their vegetative height. Flowering times are generally between 56–65 days, though some phenotypes may extend slightly longer for exceptional resin development. Growers report good branching and flower spacing, which helps reduce the risk of mold.

Yield potential is considered good, and the strain is noted for its high resin production, making it appealing to both flower and concentrate enthusiasts. The dense buds may require attention to airflow to prevent issues within the cola core.

Origins and Lineage

The Sloth is a hybrid cross combining the '88 G13/Hashplant clone with a G13/Black Widow F4 male. The '88 G13/Hashplant clone is a well-regarded specimen from the era known for its dense colas, high resin content, and sedative effects. The G13/Black Widow F4 is a stabilized inbred line selected for consistency, structure, and a balancing uplift.

This genetic pairing was developed to preserve the heavy, narcotic depth associated with G13 and Hashplant while incorporating improved uniformity and grower-friendly traits. The Black Widow influence is intended to add complexity to the aroma and a subtle counterpoint to the predominantly sedative profile.

Frequently asked questions

What is the THC content of The Sloth?
The Sloth typically has a THC content ranging from 20-28%.
What are the dominant terpenes in The Sloth?
Dominant terpenes often include beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and humulene, with limonene and pinene also frequently present.
What kind of effects does The Sloth provide?
The Sloth is known for its deeply relaxing, body-heavy effects that encourage stillness and rest, often described as calming.
What is the flavor profile of The Sloth?
The flavor is characterized by a hashy-wood core with notes of peppercorn and pine sap, complemented by a smooth inhale with lemon sparkle and a heavier cedar and earth exhale.