The original Jack Herer was a truly extraordinary man, cannabis activist, author and all-round, general legend. Such an incredible person could only be fittingly honoured by having an outstanding strain of marijuana created in his memory and named after him. 

Jack Herer strain info, history and genetics

As is often the case with strains developed in the Reagan years (1981 to 1989), very little is known about the origins of Jack Herer, other than that it first appeared on the scene around the tail end of the 1980s/beginning of the 1990s. One of the few hard facts is that it was developed by Sensi Seeds, which is based in the Netherlands, and it was definitely a known strain by the mid 1990s. Most people believe that Jack Herer is a hybrid of some form of Haze, Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk, which would fit in not only with its physical appearance and growth pattern but also with its medical effects.

The quality of this strain can be clearly seen by its perennial popularity, its string of awards and, quite simply, the fact that it is at least 20 years old and still going very strongly indeed in the face of competition from more modern strains.

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What are the effects of Jack Herer weed strain?

On average, Jack Herer has about 17% THC and is more than enough to deliver both prompt pain relief and a clear-headed, energizing high which is relaxed and happy rather than euphoric.  One of the great plus points of this strain is that there is a nice, smooth, seamless transition from the high to the body stone.  Although Jack Herer is only a smidgen Sativa dominant (about 55/45) and, as previously mentioned, produces plenty of resin, the stone is still light, albeit very relaxing and comforting. Think of it as hitting the snooze button and snuggling under the duvet for a little longer, rather than hibernating.

This means that the Jack Herer strain is a hugely versatile strain, which can be used at any time of day. If you struggle to get going in the mornings, either because of physical pain or because of emotional issues such as depression and anxiety, then Jack Herer could be a good option to ease you into the day, although obviously not if you need to start off with a drive to work (or indeed anywhere else).

Likewise it could be used during the day to deal with pain issues and/or to shore you up when you’re flagging emotionally (or just need an energy boost). Although it’s not a classic “night-time” strain, it could certainly be used to settle you for sleep. As always, if you’re planning on using marijuana to help you get to sleep, keep safety in mind. Either be very, very careful to stub out your joint completely before you go to sleep or (arguably better still) use a vaporizer.

What does Jack Herer taste and smell like?

Speaking of smoke, not only does Jack Herer’s smell glorious with menthol and citrus freshness balanced by earthy woodiness, it's also gentle on the throat, so those with respiratory sensitivities should definitely take a look at this strain to see if it meets their overall needs.

The aroma of this strain is a good reflection of its flavor. The pine and citrus elements make themselves felt immediately, but there is a solid body of earth and wood to give it strength and robustness.  Some people have suggested that this combination creates a herbal flavor, reminiscent of sage.

If you want a strain with a decent enough taste and excellent medical benefits, then Jack Herer could be just what you need.

How to grow Jack Herer strain

Even though Jack Herer is only just Sativa dominant, it still grows tall and proud, up to about 2 metres in point of fact, so indoor growers are either going to have to make sure they have plenty of vertical space or be ready to get to grips with plant training.  Indoors, Jack Herer will flower in about 7 to 9 weeks. Outdoors, this strain will finish about late September or early October, so it’s probably only a realistic option for outdoor growers in southern Europe.

Growers should also note the fact that although Jack Herer isn’t much to look at during the growth period, it certainly makes its presence felt with its odor during flowering.  This is very much citrus, with a hint of pine and while it can be delicious in small doses, it can easily get overpowering, so good odor control is a must.

Another point to remember is that while high resin production does tend to make a plant look pretty (thanks to all those glittering trichomes) and perform well, it also makes it very sticky. Invest in a good pair of gloves and/or some decent handwash.

Jack Herer offers decent yields in the region of 500g/m2 indoors and 500g/pp outdoors, and is moderately easy to grow.  Basically, just about any strain with Haze genetics is going to be on the demanding side, but as Haze-influenced strains go, Jack Herer is reasonable in its demands. If you’re a beginner, you either want to choose another strain with which to learn, or take on this strain as a challenge and maybe try one or two plants alongside the grow you plan to use for your condition.

Jack Herer is a fitting tribute to one of the world’s greatest characters, who is now gone but far from forgotten. It isn't the easiest grow in the world, but it certainly isn't the hardest either, and if you can give it the care it needs, you will be rewarded with some outstanding buds.

STRAIN CHARACTERISTICS
THC % 16%-19%
Flowering Time 10-12 Weeks
Outdoor harvest Mid October
Yield 400-500gr/m²
Indica/Sativa Sativa Dominant
Height Tall: 180cm-220cm
Difficulty Easy
CBD Content <1%
Climate Tropical, Sub Tropical, Warm, Mould Resistant
Medical Conditions Depression, Pain, Stress
Seed Type Feminized
Genetics Sativa Haze x Northern Lights #5 x Shiva Skunk
Effects Creative, Energising, Uplifting
Taste Pine, Spicy, Woody
Terpene Terpinolene, Caryophyllene, Pinene

Jack Herer weed strain FAQs

Is Jack Herer 100% sativa?

No, Jack Herer weed is sativa dominant, but not 100%. It is a cross between Haze, Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk and contains about 60% sativa genetics.

Is Jack Herer good for energy?

Yep, Jack Herer is definitely an energy-boosting strain, especially when used in moderation. The 40% indica genetics can also help with relaxation and calmness, while the sativa part will give you a nice kick of motivation and energy.

Is Jack Herer bad for anxiety?

Any strain with decent levels of THC can spark a certain level of anxious feelings in some people. The currently available science points to the dosage being the key factor, so it is recommended that those prone to anxiety should start with low THC strains and gradually build up if they wish.

However, some people dealing with anxiety respond well to high THC strains, as they can help them relax and let go of their worries. It is an individual response, so take your time, and start slowly if you are worried about anxiety and THC. 

The mid-level THC potency, the delicious taste and smell, the well-balanced high, and the medical benefits all contribute to Jack Herer's popularity. The fact that it is named after a well-known marijuana activist also adds to its appeal.

Does Jack Herer cause munchies?

It sure does!

What is the main terpene in Jack Herer?

Terpinolene, followed by beta-caryophyllene and alpha-pinene.