Northern Lights Indica Cannabis Strain

Northern Lights

Northern Lights

Indica

Also known as: NL, Northern Lights #5, NL #5

What is the Northern Lights strain?

Northern Lights is a indica cannabis strain with up to 27.0% THC, known for its relaxed effects and earthy and hash flavor profile.

Northern Lights stands among the most famous cannabis strains of all time, representing a cornerstone in modern indica breeding. First appearing in the 1970s in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, this legendary cultivar was developed by a mysterious breeder known as 'The Indian' on an island near Seattle, Washington. The strain was later brought to the Netherlands in the mid-1980s where it was commercially developed and stabilized by renowned breeder Nevil Schoenmakers at The Seed Bank, which later became part of Sensi Seeds. Northern Lights is believed to be a cross between pure Afghani landrace genetics and Thai sativa varieties, resulting in a predominantly indica strain that is typically classified as 95% indica and 5% sativa.

The strain is characterized by its dense, resinous buds that display a vibrant green coloration often accented by purple hues and bright orange pistils. When properly cultivated, the flowers become heavily coated in trichomes, giving them a crystalline appearance reminiscent of the aurora borealis from which it takes its name. Northern Lights has won multiple Cannabis Cup awards and has become the genetic foundation for countless popular hybrids including Super Silver Haze, Shiva Skunk, and many others. Its consistent genetics, fast flowering time of 45-50 days, and resilient growing characteristics have made it a favorite among both novice and experienced cultivators worldwide.

What are the effects of Northern Lights?

What are the medical benefits of Northern Lights?

  • Users report relief from chronic pain
  • May help with insomnia and sleep disorders
  • Often used for stress and anxiety management
  • May provide relief from depression symptoms
  • Users report appetite stimulation
  • May help with muscle tension and spasms

This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.

What are the side effects of Northern Lights?

How do you grow Northern Lights?

Northern Lights is considered one of the easiest strains to grow, making it ideal for beginners. The plant remains compact and manageable, typically reaching 80-130cm indoors and 150-200cm outdoors. It has a fast flowering time of 45-50 days (6-7 weeks) indoors, with outdoor harvest around mid-October. The strain is highly resilient and resistant to pests, mold, and overfeeding. It thrives in both indoor and outdoor environments, preferring warm, sunny conditions with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Indoor yields average 450-500g per square meter, while outdoor plants can produce up to 600g each. The strain responds well to Sea of Green (SOG) methods and various growing techniques. Its short flowering time and robust nature make it suitable for growers in temperate climates.

How should you use Northern Lights?

Northern Lights is a indica strain with 27.0% THC, which is considered high potency. As an indica, it is best suited for evening or nighttime use.

Beginners

Start with 1-2 small inhalations or 2.5-5mg if using edibles. Wait 15 minutes before taking more. This strain is potent — start very low.

Regular Users

A standard session of 3-5 inhalations or 5-15mg edible dose. Effects typically onset within 5-15 minutes when inhaled, 30-90 minutes for edibles.

Experienced Users

Adjust to personal tolerance. At 27.0% THC, even experienced users should respect this strain's potency.

Start low and go slow. This is not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional before using cannabis.

What is the genetic lineage of Northern Lights?

What strains were bred from Northern Lights? (705)

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Northern Lights make you feel?

Northern Lights is a indica strain that primarily produces relaxed effects, followed by calm. Users report the dominant effect at 90% intensity. With 27.0% THC, this strain is considered potent and best suited for experienced users.

Is Northern Lights good for medical use?

Northern Lights has been reported by users for users report relief from chronic pain, may help with insomnia and sleep disorders, often used for stress and anxiety management, may provide relief from depression symptoms, users report appetite stimulation, may help with muscle tension and spasms. As an indica strain, it may be particularly suited for evening or nighttime use.

This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.

Are there side effects with Northern Lights?

Some users have reported dry mouth, dry eyes, dizziness, dry mouth, dry eyes, possible dizziness in higher doses, potential for couch lock, may cause mild paranoia in sensitive users when using Northern Lights. Starting with a low dose and staying hydrated can help minimize these effects.

What does Northern Lights taste and smell like?

Northern Lights features a flavor profile of earthy, hash, pine, spicy, sweet, woody. The dominant terpenes are Myrcene and Caryophyllene, which contribute to its distinctive aroma.

What do users say about Northern Lights?

No reviews yet. Be the first to review Northern Lights!

What does the research say about Northern Lights?

Northern Lights is a indica cannabis strain containing up to 27.0% THC, with a terpene profile dominated by Myrcene and Caryophyllene. Below are authoritative resources for understanding the compounds in this strain.

What strains are similar to Northern Lights?