10 Strongest Weed Strains and High THC Strains

Published in cooperation between Levitated Media and the Gilroy Dispatch

Ever wonder about the strongest weed strains? The cannabis industry is constantly pushing the limits with higher THC through genetic advancements. And THC is key. It’s what makes some strains stand out.

Studies have found that strains with high THC, like those used for pain management and anxiety relief, are preferred because of their strong, reliable effects. We’ve done our homework on high-THC strains; some are potent!

If you’re looking for the top of the top, Godfather OG is a contender for the strongest weed strain. We’re talking THC levels over 30 percent! So, if you’re curious about the strongest weed strains, their effects and even how to grow them, keep reading. This guide is for you.

Top 10 Strongest Cannabis Strains

These are the top cannabis strains known for their exceptional THC potency. Each section below will break down these potent strains’ unique effects, flavors and growth details.

1. Godfather OG—Strongest Strain Overall
2. Girl Scout Cookies—Most Psychoactive Weed Strain
3. Super Lemon Haze—Best Marijuana Strain for Pain Relief
4. Sour Diesel—Most Potent Hybrid Cannabis Strain
5. Strawberry Banana Cheese—Best Weed Strain for Euphoria
6. Gorilla Glue—Best Sativa-Dominant Cannabis Strain
7. Bruce Banner—Best Indica-Dominant Cannabis Strain
8. Jenny Kush—Best High-THC strain for Creativity
9. Royal Runtz—Best Weed Strain for Relaxation
10. OG Kush—Marijuana with Most Balanced Effects

Godfather OG—Strongest Strain Overall

Overview

• Flowering Time: 7-9 weeks indoors; 10-12 weeks outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Earthy, piney, fruity with hints of grape, wood and spice.
• THC Level & Effects: THC up to 28 percent (potentially as high as 34 percent). Strong body-high, euphoria, complete relaxation, potential couch-lock.
• Growth Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Resistant to mold, responds well to SCROG or SOG techniques.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Godfather OG is an Indica-dominant powerhouse with a reputation for delivering intense highs. This strain packs up to 28 percent THC, sometimes reaching 34 percent with expert care. It originates from the potent genetics of XXX OG and Alpha OG. The nugs are compact, vibrant and dripping with resin. Perfect for users seeking full-body relaxation and peace of mind. The strain earned fame by winning the 2013 High Times Cannabis Cup.

It has a balanced terpene profile with earthy, fruity and woody notes, including hints of grape and pine. Myrcene leads with sedative qualities, while caryophyllene adds a spicy touch. This makes it ideal for recreational users and those looking to manage pain or insomnia. It thrives under consistent care with minimal issues.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Extremely high THC, perfect for experienced users
• Deeply relaxing and euphoric effects
• Easy to grow and resilient to mold

Cons:

• Not ideal for beginners due to potency
• It can cause serious couch-lock if overused

Girl Scout Cookies—Most Psychoactive Weed Strain

Overview

• Flowering Time: 9-10 weeks indoors; late September to early October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Sweet and earthy with hints of mint, vanilla and spice.
• THC Level & Effects: Up to 30 percent THC. Euphoric high, full-body relaxation, boosts creativity and sociability.
• Growth Difficulty: Easy. Pest and mold-resistant thrives indoors and outdoors.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Girl Scout Cookies Extreme is a highly sought-after Indica-dominant hybrid. Its genetics trace back to OG Kush and Durban Poison. This strain excels with THC levels up to 30 percent, offering a balanced blend of cerebral euphoria and body relaxation. It’s great for both medicinal and recreational use, especially for pain relief and stress reduction. Buds grow dense and can develop a frosty purple tint in cooler climates.

This strain has a complex aroma profile of mint, sweet cookies and earthy undertones. Users often report feeling giggly, confident and creative. It’s perfect for social settings where you want to unwind without feeling too sedated.

Due to its resistance to pests and disease, it is easy for beginners to grow. With proper care, yields can reach up to 21 ounces per plant.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High THC and uplifting effects
• Easy to grow with strong pest resistance
• Perfect for stress relief and social creativity

Cons:

• Can cause dry mouth and paranoia in sensitive users
• High THC may overwhelm new users

Super Lemon Haze—Best Marijuana Strain for Pain Relief

Overview

• Flowering Time: 9-10 weeks indoors; October-November outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Zesty lemon, sweet candy, earthy, with hints of lime and spice.
• THC Level & Effects: 19-25 percent THC. Uplifting, energizing high boosts motivation, creativity and happiness.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. Thrives in Mediterranean and sunny climates, both indoors and outdoors.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Super Lemon Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid born from Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Haze. It’s renowned for its bright, citrusy flavor and uplifting high. THC ranges between 19 percent and 25 percent, offering a powerful yet balanced experience. The strain is popular for pain relief, mood elevation and boosting creativity. Buds are dense, adorned with orange hairs and a sparkling layer of trichomes.

This plant adapts to a variety of environments, but it thrives in warmth and ample sunlight. Outdoors it can grow up to 8 feet tall and yield 900 grams per plant. Its energizing effects make it ideal for daytime use. Growers should monitor temperature and humidity for optimal results.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High THC with uplifting and pain-relieving effects
• Unique lemon candy flavor and aroma
• Great for creativity and focus

Cons:

• Requires warm, sunny climates for best results

Sour Diesel—Most Potent Hybrid Cannabis Strain

Overview

• Flowering Time: 10-12 weeks indoors; harvests in late October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Earthy diesel, citrus and herbal undertones.
• THC Level & Effects: 22-23 percent THC, 0.7 percent CBD. Intense cerebral highs boost energy, focus and creativity.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. Suitable for experienced growers but manageable for beginners with guidance.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Sour Diesel is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that lives up to the hype. Its parents, Chemdawg 91 and Super Skunk gifted it with a bold, fuel-like aroma that’s impossible to miss. One puff unleashes a wave of energy and euphoria.

It’s like a mental reset. Worries fade, and motivation kicks in. Creative sparks fly, making it a favorite for artists and anyone who needs a productivity boost. Thanks to a touch of Indica, the high is uplifting but balanced.

Growing Sour Diesel is a rewarding journey. Outdoors, it stretches up to 7 feet tall, producing massive 24-ounce yields. Indoors, it’s more compact at around 5 feet but still yields an impressive 18 ounces per square meter. The buds glisten with trichomes, almost like holiday lights on a tree. With its rich, earthy flavor, Sour Diesel is like a dependable friend. It can help relieve pain, stress and depression.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High yields and potent, long-lasting effects
• Boosts focus, energy and creativity
• Classic, strong diesel flavor and aroma

Cons:

• Requires mold prevention and regular pruning
• Strong scent can be difficult to hide

Strawberry Banana Cheese—Best Weed Strain for Euphoria

Overview

• Flowering Time: 8-10 weeks indoors; October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Sweet strawberry, banana, earthy cheese and pungent notes.
• THC Level & Effects: It contains 18 percent THC and 0.5 percent CBD. It is euphoric, deeply relaxing and boosts creativity and focus.
• Growth Difficulty: Easy. Mold-resistant thrives in temperate to Mediterranean climates.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Strawberry Banana Cheese is an Indica-dominant hybrid. Its rich heritage comes from the Strawberry Banana and Cheese strains. It offers the perfect balance of relaxation and uplifting euphoria.

You’ll feel your mind clear with one hit as happiness and calm take over. Creative energy flows freely, and tension melts away like ice on a warm day. With THC at 18 percent, it’s powerful yet manageable.

This strain delights the senses with its unique blend of fruity and cheesy flavors. Its buds are compact, dusted with frosty trichomes and streaked with orange hairs. It thrives indoors and outdoors, reaching up to 8 feet tall outdoors. Yields are rewarding, with up to 600 grams per square meter.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Unique, delicious flavor profile
• Easy to grow and mold-resistant
• Euphoric high that enhances creativity

Cons:

• Moderate THC may not satisfy heavy users
• Best suited to warm climates for maximum yields

Gorilla Glue—Best Sativa-Dominant Cannabis Strain

Overview

• Flowering Time: 9-10 weeks indoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Earthy, acidic, with hints of chocolate and citrus.
• THC Level & Effects: 27 percent THC. Euphoric onset is followed by deep physical relaxation.
• Growth Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Adapts to various climates and resists pests.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Gorilla Glue is a 70 percent sativa-dominant powerhouse with unmatched potency. Its parents, Chem Sister, Sour Dubb and Chocolate Diesel, passed down heavy resin production. They also gifted it with strong pest resistance.

This strain boasts a staggering 27 percent THC. It delivers an exhilarating burst of euphoria before melting into full-body relaxation. It’s perfect for both active afternoons and peaceful evenings.

Growing Gorilla Glue is easy. Indoors, yields can reach up to 600 grams per square meter. In the outdoors, plants stretch over 2 meters and yield up to 1200 grams per plant. Its dense buds glisten with resin, making it ideal for concentrates.

Its rich, earthy aroma fills the air, and its smooth taste lingers with notes of chocolate and acidity. This strain isn’t just about potency; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the high fades.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Extremely high THC for a powerful high
• Heavy yields and resin production
• Resistant to pests and adaptable to different climates

Cons:

• Requires support for large colas during flowering

Bruce Banner—Best Indica-Dominant Cannabis Strain

Overview

• Flowering Time: 65-70 days indoors; harvest mid-October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Fruity, sweet, earthy and diesel with hints of citrus.
• THC Level & Effects: Up to 32 percent THC. Creative, uplifting euphoria balanced by a relaxing body calm.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. Thrives indoors and outdoors with proper space and care.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Bruce Banner, named after the Hulk’s alter ego, is a true monster of potency. This strain is a cross between Strawberry Diesel and OG Kush. 

It’s 60 percent sativa and 40 percent indica. This blend is ideal for boosting creativity and focus while maintaining a grounding calm. The onset is fast, delivering euphoria that fuels social and productive moments. Perfect for daytime cannabis use.

Growing this strain is rewarding. Indoors, plants reach up to 150 cm and yield 650 grams per square meter. Outdoors, they can soar to 2.5 meters tall and produce up to 1.5 kg of dense, resin-coated buds. Bruce Banner’s strong flowering plant structure makes it a rewarding grow. It’s suitable for experienced and intermediate cultivators.

Its citrusy sweetness and diesel undertones make it a favorite at any dispensary. This strain is meant to be savored like a wedding cake on a special occasion. It’s powerful, versatile and designed to leave a lasting impression.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally high THC for intense euphoria
• High indoor and outdoor yields
• Balanced effects, creative and relaxing

Cons:

• Needs ample space for outdoor growth

Jenny Kush—Best High-THC strain for Creativity

Overview

• Flowering Time: 60-70 days.
• Aroma & Flavor: Fruity haze with hints of lime, lemon and OG funk.
• THC Level & Effects: High THC content. Uplifting and energetic, great for focus and motivation.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. High resin production, ideal for extract enthusiasts.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Jenny Kush is a tribute to positivity and happiness, named after a beloved figure in the cannabis community. It’s a Sativa-dominant hybrid with genetics from Amnesia Haze and Rare Dankness #2. This strain lifts you, giving you a clean, focused high without overwhelming your senses. It’s perfect for staying motivated and productive.

The buds are resin-packed and glisten from top to fan leaves. Growers love its heavy trichome production, especially those who make concentrates. The flavor is a blend of fruity haze, citrus and OG funk. It’s moderately challenging to grow but highly rewarding.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Uplifting and motivational effects
• High resin output, great for extracts
• Unique fruity and citrus flavor profile

Cons:

• Resin-heavy buds may require extra trimming care

Royal Runtz—Best Weed Strain for Relaxation

Overview

• Flowering Time: 8-9 weeks indoors; mid-October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Sweet, fruity, like a decadent fruit salad.
• THC Level & Effects: 27 percent THC. Deep body relaxation with a euphoric, creative buzz.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. Grows well indoors and outdoors.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

Royal Runtz is a balanced hybrid—50 percent sativa 50 percent indica. Born from two powerhouse strains: Gelato and Zkittlez. This strain is in the elite category of high-THC cannabis, boasting an impressive 27 percent THC.

The high starts with an uplifting burst of creativity. It then transitions into full-body relaxation, gently easing away tension. It’s perfect for kicking back after a long day or getting lost in your thoughts with a creative project.

This flowering plant grows to about 100-130 cm indoors and up to 180 cm outdoors. Its yields are generous: 450-500g/m² indoors and up to 450g/plant outdoors. The sticky, colorful and highly aromatic buds fill the room with a sweet and fruity scent.

This strain is a top choice for those seeking a powerful, smooth and flavorful experience. Its reputation for deep relaxation and rich flavor makes it a dispensary favorite.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High THC level for potent relaxation and euphoria.
• Balanced hybrid effects for both creativity and calm.
• Strong yields and rich, fruity flavor.

Cons:

• Heavy resin production can clog trimming tools and grinders easily
• Requires regular pruning to manage its height and maximize yields

OG Kush—Marijuana with Most Balanced Effects

Overview

• Flowering Time: 8 weeks indoors; mid-October outdoors.
• Aroma & Flavor: Citrus, lemony with diesel undertones.
• THC Level & Effects: 24 percent THC, 0.23 percent CBD. The relaxing body is high with mild euphoria.
• Growth Difficulty: Moderate. Produces high yields indoors and outdoors but may need branch support.
• Where to Order: Buy Here

OG Kush is a classic hybrid known for its perfectly balanced effects. This strain originates from a powerful mix of Lemon Thai, Pakistani Kush and ChemDawg. It delivers a sensory experience loved worldwide! Its 24 percent THC content delivers a relaxing body high, soothing muscles and easing tension. A bit of euphoria uplifts the mood, making it ideal for relaxation and focus without heavy sedation.

This strain grows well in most environments. Indoors, OG Kush can yield up to 800 grams per square meter. Outdoors, it yields ~800g/plant and grows tall, needing support for its heavy buds.

Its buds are dense and resinous, coated with trichomes that shimmer like frost. The citrus-diesel aroma fills the air, making each inhale a flavorful experience. It’s no surprise that OG Kush is a top choice for growers and users alike.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Balanced high, perfect for relaxation and mild euphoria
• High indoor and outdoor yields with rich resin production
• Iconic lemon and diesel flavor profile

Cons:

• Requires support for heavy buds during flowering
• Needs proper environmental control to prevent height issues

Types of Weed Strains

When it comes to cannabis, not all strains are created equal. Each type has its own personality, effects and potency. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right experience for your body and mind. Let’s break down the four main types of cannabis strains.

Indica

Think of Indica as your chill friend who always knows how to help you relax. This type of strain is known for its deep, sedative effects. It’s perfect when you want to melt into your couch or get a good night’s sleep. Indicas often have a rich, earthy aroma and higher levels of CBD, which enhances their pain-relieving properties.

Take Note: Just don’t expect to be super productive—this strain is best when you want to rest and recharge.

Common effects:

• Deep relaxation
• Pain and stress relief
• Promotes better sleep

Sativa

Sativa is your upbeat friend who motivates and prepares you to conquer the day. Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. They’re the go-to choice for creative projects, social events, or tackling to-do lists.

They often have a fruity or citrusy aroma. They are also rich in THC, the compound responsible for the cerebral euphoric high. These strains are great when you need a mental boost but want to stay focused and alert.

Take Note: They can, however, sometimes cause anxiety in those sensitive to THC, so pace yourself!

Common effects:

• Increased energy and creativity
• Enhanced focus and concentration
• Ideal for daytime use

Hybrid

If you’re looking for balance, hybrids are your best bet. They’re like a carefully blended cocktail—offering the best Indica and Sativa worlds. Hybrids can fit your needs. They can lean toward relaxation or boost energy while keeping you calm.

This versatility is why hybrids are so popular in the cannabis world. Growers experiment with different THC-to-CBD ratios to create custom experiences.

Take Note: Need focus without too much anxiety? There’s a hybrid for that. Want relaxation without feeling sedated? Yep, there’s one for that too.

Common effects:

• Balanced euphoria and relaxation
• Tailored to fit specific needs
• Versatile for both daytime and nighttime use

Ruderalis

Ruderalis is the lesser-known, practical cousin in the cannabis family. It’s not typically smoked or used recreationally due to its low THC content. However, it plays a crucial role in cannabis cultivation.

This strain is known for being “auto-flowering,” meaning it doesn’t rely on light cycles to trigger flowering. This trait makes it a favorite among breeders seeking resilient, easy-to-grow plants.

Ruderalis genetics are often used to create autoflower strains. These strains combine fast growth with manageable THC levels.

Common traits:

• Auto-flowering (flowers without light cycle changes)
• Low THC, minimal psychoactive effects
• Primarily used for breeding purposes

Growing and Cultivating Strong Marijuana Strains

Growing high-THC cannabis requires the right balance of genetics, environment and technique. Light intensity, humidity and nutrients all maximize resin and trichome production, which affects potency. Without proper care, even strong genetics may not reach their full potential. Consistent monitoring is key to keeping your plants healthy and potent.

Harvesting at Peak Cannabinoid Levels is critical to achieving high THC percentages. Trichomes serve as the best maturity indicator. At peak potency, they turn from clear to cloudy white. If left too long, they amber as THC degrades into CBN. Also, pistils darken and curl inward, signaling the plant’s readiness to harvest. Proper timing preserves both potency and flavor.

Selecting High-THC Strain Genetics

Genetics plays a crucial role in determining a plant’s THC percentage and potency. Stable genetics result in uniform growth, consistent trichome production and reliable THC levels. Potency can vary greatly without this stability, leading to unpredictable harvests, with some buds far weaker than others.

Genetic instability can also reduce yields and affect the overall quality of the cannabis. For a high-potency crop, select well-developed strains with proven genetics. Reliable genetics provide the foundation needed for a potent and productive harvest.

Optimizing Growing Conditions for Potency

Light, humidity and nutrients play key roles in boosting THC. Strong light helps maximize trichome production. Lower humidity (40-50 percent) during flowering prevents mold and enhances resin. Use phosphorus-rich nutrients for denser, more potent buds.

Hydroponics allows for faster growth and precise nutrient control. This often results in higher potency. Soil, on the other hand, enhances terpene profiles and is easier to manage. Both methods can produce potent plants if conditions are right.

Quick Tips:

• Use intense lighting (12-18 hours)
• Drop humidity during flowering
• Choose soil for flavor or hydro for faster growth

Proper Drying and Curing Techniques

Drying preserves structure and prepares buds for curing. This slow, controlled process prevents harsh flavors and terpene loss. Curing in airtight jars stabilizes THC and enhances aroma. During the first week, open jars daily to release moisture and allow buds to develop flavor and potency.

Proper storage keeps cannabis fresh and potent. Exposure to light, heat and air degrades THC and terpenes over time. Store airtight glass jars in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.

Take Note: Avoid plastic, as it can trap moisture and affect texture and flavor.

Tips:

• Dry until buds are crisp but not brittle
• Cure in airtight jars, burping daily for the first week
• Store in a cool, dark place to protect THC levels and terpenes

Strongest Weed Strains FAQs

What are the top 5 strongest weed strains?

The most potent cannabis strains include:

• Godfather OG—Up to 34 percent THC, delivering deep relaxation and euphoria.
• Bruce Banner—Around 32 percent THC, providing a creative and uplifting high.
• Royal Runtz—27 percent THC with a sweet, fruity flavor and calming effects.
• Girl Scout Cookies Extreme—28-30 percent THC, known for its balanced euphoria and relaxation.
• Sour Diesel—22-25 percent THC, offering an energetic and cerebral high.

What is the strongest form of weed?

Cannabis potency depends on the product type:

• Flower: Typically 15-30 percent THC, offering a balanced high.
• Concentrates: Wax, shatter and oils contain 60-90 percent THC for a fast-acting, intense experience.
• Edibles: Lower THC doses (10-50 mg per serving) but provide longer-lasting effects due to liver processing. For the most potent effects, concentrates are the strongest form of cannabis.

What is the most psychoactive weed?

Amnesia Haze is one of the most psychoactive strains, with THC levels around 22-25 percent. It delivers an intense cerebral high, boosting creativity and sensory perception. However, it may be overwhelming for beginners due to its potency.

Where to buy the strongest weed strains?

Purchasing from trusted dispensaries or seed banks for high-THC strains ensures quality and consistency. Reliable sources provide stable genetics and verified potency, making them the best option for experienced users and medical cannabis patients.

Our Verdict: Where to Buy the Strongest Weed Strains

When it comes to sheer potency, Godfather OG takes the crown as one of the strongest weed strains, with THC levels exceeding 30 percent.

Strains like this are ideal for high-tolerance users seeking intense effects and for medical cannabis patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia. The balance of potency and therapeutic relief makes these high-THC strains highly appealing to cannabis users.

Shopping at trusted dispensaries or seed banks is important for the best selection of high-THC strains. Reliable sources provide stable genetics, ensuring consistency in potency and effects. Are you ready to grow or try these powerful strains?

Check out our recommended seed banks and dispensaries for your next purchase!

Disclaimer: This article does not encourage readers to grow marijuana where it is not legal to do so. It is highly recommended to check legal questions before purchasing these products.