The Lao Highland Sativa, cultivated by the Akha tribal group in Northern Laos for generations, offers a captivating blend of vivid colors and delightful flavors. This landrace variety is highly regarded by collectors, preservationists, and breeders due to its remarkable vigor, mold resistance, and unique aromas.
Notably robust and fast-growing, it may be one of Southeast Asia's quickest flowering strains. These plants, though capable of substantial growth, are manageable indoors, thanks to a relatively short flowering period.
The Akha Tribe's historical migration from Yunnan, China, to Northern Laos in the early 20th century potentially introduced an intriguing mix of Sativa and Indica traits. This fusion is characterized by sweet, creamy aromas, shorter flowering times, and ample trichomes, setting it apart from typical tropical strains.
The Lao Highland variety features large, round seeds and initially broad leaflets that later retain their width, distinguishing it from many tropical counterparts.
These plants thrive in poor soils and prefer less nutrient-rich growing conditions. While they experience substantial height gain during flowering, the plants initiate flowering early, often within three weeks. Outdoor harvests are typically in November to December.
Towards the end of the flowering cycle, many plants exhibit a light purple hue, with purple phenotypes emitting deep berry scents and green buds offering floral and vanilla fragrances. Some green phenotypes showcase hazy and citrusy notes.
The flavor profile is diverse, encompassing fruity, soapy, and woody tones, while potency ranges from medium to strong, producing an energetic, calming effect.