California Orange: Strain, Effects, and More

If you're on the lookout for a balanced, flavorful cannabis strain, California Orange is an excellent option. This classic favorite is popular among enthusiasts and newbies alike. To see whether you'd like to give it a try, have a look at our in-depth guide. We'll explain this strain's fascinating background and let you know what other people think of California Orange.

What is the California Orange strain?

The California Orange strain goes by many names. Depending on where you live and who you talk to, you might hear it called "Cali Orange," "Cali-O," or even "C.O.B." Regardless of what you call it, this hybrid strain is a classic. It provides a pleasant blend of Indica and Sativa effects while letting users enjoy a refreshing, citrusy aroma.

California Orange is part of a broad class of cannabis called Cali strains. The main thing all these strains have in common is that they're descended from old-school California cannabis. California developed its own distinct cannabis culture back in the 1960s, so the state pioneered a lot of iconic varieties. California marijuana tends to be characterized by balanced hybrids with moderate-to-high THC content.

Origins of California Orange strain

Because this is one of the older cannabis strains, we don't actually know much about its origin. During the 1960s and 1970s, most American strains were created by home breeders who experimented with a variety of blends. They didn't patent their strains, and they closely guarded their trade secrets. All we know is that California Orange was most likely made by crossbreeding various Indica and Sativa varieties until a cannabis plant with orange-scented buds developed.

California Orange's history got even more interesting in the 1980s. Thanks to changing government policies, there was a huge crackdown on growers' abilities to produce crops in America. Countless classic strains were lost. Fortunately, California Orange had made its way over to Amsterdam by then. Dutch breeders fell in love with the orange flavor and began working with the strain to produce other fruity crossbreeds. Ultimately, they were able to preserve this iconic strain until California Orange found its way home again.

California Orange Morphology

There are a few unique features that make the Cali cannabis plant stand out from the rest of its family. It has pale green leaves with a matte texture that grow tightly around the bud. The buds themselves are very densely packed with trichomes. When you break open a bud, you'll notice that it even has trichomes on the inside. This plant is so distinctive that experienced growers can often identify it at a glance.

The interesting morphology of the Cali Orange strain also contributes to its unusual effects. All of the sticky trichomes on the bud help boost its cannabinoid content. California Orange has around 13% THC content, but it also contains plenty of CBD, CBC, CBG, CBN, and other helpful cannabinoids. Furthermore, this plant packs a lot of terpenes into its buds. Unusually high amounts of Humulene, Limonene, Myrcene, and Linalool create a fruity, floral flavor.

Flowering time of California Orange

Growing the Cali Orange strain is easy, but it takes patience. Unlike some strains that can flower in as little as eight weeks, California Orange takes at least 11 weeks. If you're growing it outdoors in natural conditions, it usually flowers in the middle of fall. Extra warmth and sun help encourage the plant to harvest a little quicker.

Is California Orange Sativa or Indica?

California Orange provides the best of both worlds. This hybrid is often called a 50/50 hybrid because it balances the traits of both Sativa and Indica strains. Though its exact lineage isn't known, it seems likely that it contains equal parts Sativa and Indica parentage.

You may find that your personal tolerance and chosen dose will affect how this cannabis strain feels. Many people report that moderate doses showcase the cannabis' Sativa cerebral impact. Meanwhile, taking a heavy dose can cause the full-body sensations associated with Indica. 

Effects of Cali Orange strain: How strong is Cali?

Cannabinoid content varies depending on growth and processing methods. If you're vaporizing the flower, you could be getting anywhere between 12% to 18% THC. Of course, extracts are a little more regulated, so THC content won't vary as much. Generally speaking, California Orange is a moderately strong plant. It's not as intense as some other strains, but it's still strong enough for you to notice the effects.

People who try it often report a lifted mood and a bit of extra energy. You may feel creative and more interested in mindful thinking. California Orange may cause some physical effects when taken in larger doses. People often find that they feel pleasantly drowsy and experience some sensations of heaviness and warmth in their limbs.

Cali Orange Strain Review

Just about everyone who tries Cali Orange has good things to say. Many reviewers mention that they like this cannabis because it makes them feel uplifted without being too drowsy. People often enjoy trying it alongside a delicious meal or a pleasant experience. People who use California Orange report that they feel empathetic, happy, creative, and easy-going.

Positive reviews often highlight just how customizable this cannabis is. The mid-level THC content means you can get as mild or as intense of an experience as you want. Many people also say that Cali Orange is especially pleasant to smoke or vaporize. It has a very smooth, gentle feel with a juicy, fruity flavor.

As you can see, California Orange is one of those classic strains that's almost universally appealing. Its hybrid nature allows you to appreciate a nice blend of Indica and Sativa effects, so you might find that you like it whatever your personal cannabis preferences are. On top of all the pleasant effects, Cali Orange also offers a deliciously refreshing orange flavor that's a highlight of every vaporizing experience.

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