“South American” is a broad designation that can refer to strains of cannabis native to that continent. Typically growing at high, mountainous elevations, these landrace varieties are sativa in nature and offer a complex tropical aroma as well as a surging mental high. While the THC content of South American cannabis can vary, it has been measured at between 10% and 19%.
Flowers of South American stand out immediately thanks to a larger than average size and a chunky, globular shape.
These buds are solid at the core, but are composed of long, feathery leaves that twist away from each other at their fringes, resulting in a loose, ragged appearance. The leaves themselves are a mossy green, although occasionally, phenotypes show off patches of pale to dark purple; these surprising hues come about thanks to the presence of anthocyanin pigments, which are activated by cold weather. Finally, curly orange pistils and sticky, translucent white trichomes cap off these wild flowers.
As fragrant as they are visually impressive, South American’s buds carry a predominantly tropical, fruity aroma with vague notes of mango and citrus. A deeper second whiff may also detect some underlying musk and pine. Grinding up the buds, meanwhile, may emit the astringent chemical tang of ammonia. When burnt, South American gives off a smooth smoke that can be easily ingested. On the exhale, this smoke mingles flavors of pine and citrus.
Thanks to its pure sativa background, South American wastes no time before unleashing its effects, possibly taking hold before smokers have even had a chance to exhale. Initial signs that the strain is working include a lightheaded feeling and some tingling around the lower forehead and temples. As these sensations become more familiar, consumers may immerse themselves in the strain’s buzzy and mind-expanding high. Thoughts may seem to take on a new gravity or intensity and may provoke daydreaming or deep reflection on life’s enduring mysteries.
Additionally, South American’s mental stimulation can lead to a kind of freely-associative thinking in which smokers find unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated things. This highly cerebral mood can facilitate work on complex analytical tasks; it may also open up new channels of creativity for those working on artistic projects or engaged in brainstorming sessions. Alternatively, South American can simply be a fun social lubricant, stoking conversation and camaraderie when shared in a party setting.
South American doesn’t do much in the way of physical relaxation and those expecting a deep body stone may be disappointed. As the high wears on, users are able to maintain their energy levels and indulge in activities ranging from board games to light exercise. Because it will do more to stimulate than to sedate its consumers, South American is recommended for daytime consumption.
South American’s persistent mental buzz can also be useful for medical cannabis patients. Its action on the mind can allow for deep focus on single tasks, particularly for those with attention deficit disorders. Its glowing euphoria may also dull or distract from the symptoms associated with mild to moderate stress or depression. Physical benefits, while mild, may include a relief from inflammation-related discomforts like headaches or nausea.
The same intraocular pressure that creates its initially constricted “headband” feeling can be especially helpful for elderly patients affected by eye conditions like glaucoma. Because its powerful sense of mind race can be disorienting, even in otherwise familiar surroundings, South American is not recommended for patients who are prone to paranoia or who have a low THC tolerance.
Seeds of this landrace strain have not been commercially harvested and are not available for sale online. Those looking to grow it at home should find a trusted source from which to obtain clippings, which can be grown as clones. Plants can thrive indoors or out -- and may do especially well at outdoor elevations in humid climates, similar to their native surroundings. Those growing indoors may need to occasionally trim their crops back in order to keep their height under control. South American can take a longer than average time to flower, at about 10 weeks.
For those lucky enough to try the real thing, South African sativa strains can provide memorable flavor and long-lasting effects.