Strain Knowledge: Behind The Kush

All Kush cannabis strains derive from one region of the world, the region of the Himalayas mountain range known as the Hindu Kush, which crosses over the Pakistan and Afghanistan boundary. It is a disputed part of the world that is just as famous for its ongoing conflicts as it is for its cannabis. It can be found just north of the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir. Within this legendary area lie rich, fertile and sheltered valleys that have become to be known as producing some of the best quality cannabis and hashish around.

How Kush was introduced to the West

We can thank intrepid cannabis visionaries and explorers for the spread of Kush strains. Back in the 60’s and early 70’s travellers, including members of the Brotherhood of Eternal Love, followed the “Hippie Trail” on a quest for spiritual growth and new ways of life. It was during this time when they arrived in the lush valleys of the Hindu Kush, encountering those extraordinary landrace strains. They gathered seeds and brought them back to the US and Europe, where its genetic lineage was further bred into today‘s super potent premium bud such as OG Kush and Bubba Kush.


It was just on time the travellers discovered and brought back the gift of Kush. Just a few years later, in 1973, due to immense international pressure, the new president of Afghanistan deposed the cannabis friendly king, and ruled the production and distribution of cannabis illegal. In 1978 the president was overthrown by Afghan communists, and the country was later invaded in 1979 by the Soviet Union – leading to constant bloodshed that is ongoing to this day. Although cannabis was not completely eradicated, the glorious valleys filled with finest Kush became a relict of the old days.

The Kush legacy

Since its spread to the Western world, Kush became a genetic foundation for breeders and cultivators to base new strains on. Soon, one Kush strain after another hit the market, following years of cross breeding, experimentation and adaption. It has resulted in the name “Kush” featuring heavily in the High Times Cannabis Cup over the years, which further cemented its reputation as one of the elite bloodlines of the cannabis community.

Nowhere in the Western world can Kush be found in higher abundance and with such popularity as in California, on the West Coast of the USA. It is from here that some of the most well renowned and connoisseur level variations of Kush have come from. These strains have remained popular across the world to this day; although old-school members of the cannabis community, who remember the original Kush strains, would probably argue that the name Kush has now lost a lot of its weight and meaning. Although there are some truly breath taking Kush strains out there, the hundreds of lesser strains flying under the Kush banner have somewhat diluted its true nature – with many of these poser strains lacking the power of the original.

A few of our favourite Kush strains

With so many Kush strains on the market, which ones hold true to the real Kush quality and heritage?

OG Kush

OG Kush is a classic that is cherished all over by artists, connoisseurs and medical users alike. Real OG Kush exemplifies everything that those first backpackers on the hippie trail cherished about the original Kush. There are few Kushs out there that are held with such high regard. This premium strain is characterised by a strong, happy, euphoric high and a fresh, pine flavour with sweet and earthy undertones. If you have never had a Kush before, and want a real insight into the family history, then this is one of the best places to start.

The plant itself displays both its indica and sativa heritage. Whilst short in stature like a typical indica strain, (rarely growing higher than 1m), OG Kush grows quite airy and fluffy, showing its sativa nature. It has a flowering time of roughly 8-9 weeks, and a THC content that exceeds 20 percent.

Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is an indica dominant member of the Kush family that has its typically lemony taste, and a deep reaching, relaxing stone. Whilst not as powerful as some of the other Kush varieties, Bubba Kush strikes that perfect balance, creating a highly enjoyable and relaxing smoke, whilst not overpowering too quickly. For this reason, Bubba Kush is somewhat regarded as a valuable medical strain, having both the potential ease pain and tension, as well as push a bit further when necessary, into a dopey couch-lock for those suffering from sleeping disorders.


Bubba Kush has a typical indica appearance, growing with a short stature and wide, green leaves. With a flowering time of roughly 8-9 weeks, and a THC content of about 16 percent, Bubba Kush is a solid strain that does well in any cultivators grow room – just as the delightful product suits any smokers stash.

Master Kush

Master Kush is a strain that has risen in prominence over the last few years as a go-to medical Kush strain. It produces a smoke that is both dank and highly enjoyable, whilst being relaxing and sleep inducing. This strain of Kush is one of the old-school players on the scene, winning the High Times Cannabis Cup in both 1992 and 1993. The fact that it is still considered with such high regard after so long speaks a testament of its heritage and quality. The great taste and raw, couch locking power it packs make it one to try.

This indica dominant strain has a flowering period of 8-9 weeks and a THC content in the region of 15 – 18 percent. It is a solid grower, and is well worth the effort for cultivators wanting to taste some history.