Northern Lights
Northern Lights
Also known as: NL, Northern Lights #5, NL #5
Overview
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.
Effects
Reported Medical Uses
- 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.
Possible Negative Effects
Growing Information
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.
Genetics
Child Strains
- 747
- Ace Silver Haze
- Akaisha
- Aliento de Dragón
- Amnesia Platinum
- Amsterdam Mist
- Atomic Northern Lights
- Atomic Shiva
- Aurora Indica
- Aurora Polaris
- Auto Anesthesia
- Auto Big Bang
- Auto GTI
- Auto Galaxy
- Auto M8
- Auto NL
- Auto Northern Big Bud
- Auto Northern Cream
- Auto Northern Dragon Fuel
- Auto Northern Hog
- Auto Northern Lights
- Auto Northern Lights XXL
- Auto Viking NL
- Automatic Northern Lights
- Autum Fall
- BC Hash Plant
- BL4QKFY4N Weed
- Bebé
- Berry Delight
- Big Bang Autoflowering
- Big Bud
- Big Bud Autoflower
- Big Bud Automatic
- Big Lights of North Automatic
- Big Trip
- Black Domina
- Black Gold
- Black Lime
- Black Lime Reserve
- Blue Blockers
- Blue Dot
- Blue Lightning
- Blue Lights
- Blue Magnum
- Blue Monster Holk
- Blue Mystic
- Blue Mystic Automatic
- Bona Dea
- Cactus
- Cactus OG
- California Hash Plant
- Crystal
- Dutch Treat
- East Coast Sour Diesel
- Grease Lightning
- Ice
- Ice Breaker
- Kaya Gold
- Northern Lights Auto
- Northern Lights x Big Bud Autoflowering
- Northern Soul
- Snow White
- Stardust OG
- Sugar Shack
- Super Glue
- White Ice