Dark Side of the Moon is an indica-dominant hybrid that rocks with bold fruity flavor and rolls with a pervasive sense of physical relaxation. A cross between Green Ribbon and the similarly musically-inspired Spirit in the Sky, Dark Side was created by productive growers Exotic Genetix.
Ostensibly named for both the hidden hemisphere of Earth’s moon and the legendary 1973 Pink Floyd album, Dark Side of the Moon is a multifaceted hybrid.
Dark Side of the Moon is one visually impressive bud. When trimmed, flowers are medium to large with a solid, spade-like shape and a dense, indica-typical structure.
The tapered buds are a pale shade of sea green, with many phenotypes showing varying degrees of purple in their flowers as well; the latter hues are the product of high concentrations of the pigment anthocyanin in the strain’s genetics and are brought about due to cold weather during the growing process. Finally, Dark Side’s multicolored flowers are made even more colorful by cloudy white trichomes.
When properly cured, Dark Side of the Moon’s flowers also carry a memorable and impressive scent. A fruity and slightly tart scent wafts up from the buds, undercut by some dank, earthy base notes. Grinding up these compact flowers, meanwhile, gives off a sour-sweet funk with some hint of diesel fumes. When burnt, Dark Side gives off a light, fruity smoke that can be easily inhaled and savored. On the exhale, this smoke carries a berry flavor. Notably, despite its purple coloring, Dark Side of the Moon has no discernible grape flavors. This is because the strain’s aromatic profile is determined by terpenes, chemical compounds that are very different from the pigments that dictate its coloring.
Like many other indica-leaning strains, the high from Dark Side tends to creep up on the user. Within as many as 15 minutes after ingesting its smoke, consumers may begin to sense some twitching around their temples and eyes, as well as some changes in sensory perception. Some sights and sounds may seem more intense or dynamic and slight visual or auditory distortions are possible. Smokers may also experience psychedelic phenomena like a feeling of time passing more slowly.
These trippy vibes can be pushed to the max by turning on an atmospheric album or a visually engaging film -- and if you really want to pay tribute to this strain’s namesake, we suggest experiencing the strange synchronicity of Dark Side of the Moon and the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz; just hit play on the music as the MGM lion roars for the third time.
Other than these detached, dreamy mental effects, Dark Side of the Moon tends not to do much for the user’s cognition. Instead, plan on settling in for some long-term passive relaxation, as Dark Side begins to exert a palpable body high within about an hour of consumption. Waves of relaxation may roll down the neck and radiate out through the core and limbs. Best enjoyed in a comfortable horizontal position, the strain makes a great enhancement to hang sessions with like-minded friends as well as to some solo unwinding after a long day of work. Because of its mostly lazy properties, Dark Side is recommended for evening or nighttime use.
Dark Side of the Moon’s sedative effects can have several uses for medical cannabis patients as well. Its mellow mood can temporarily improve the difficult symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety while its physically soothing properties can take the sting out of physical aches and pains. Anti-inflammatory effects may also alleviate common afflictions like nausea, cramps, and migraines. Under the right conditions, Dark Side may even lull stubborn insomniacs into a deep and restorative sleep. Because it isn’t known to bring about recursive or paranoid patterns of thinking, Dark Side of the Moon is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.
Seeds of Dark Side of the Moon are not available for sale online. As such, those looking to growing the strain at home should take clippings from mature plants in order to propagate “clones.” The strain can be cultivated indoors or out, although success outdoors calls for a semi-humid climate with hot daytime temperatures and consistent sunlight. Dark Side’s plants have a short stature with strong lateral branches and are easily accommodated indoors. The strain flowers within 9 to 10 weeks.
Dark Side of the Moon is just what the doctor ordered for luxurious nighttime relaxation. This fruity, fragrant strain is as enjoyable toked solo as it is when shared with friends.