Old School Cannabis: Haze Family Values

Image: “Blooming Blue Dream” by Jennifer Martin, licensed under CC BY 4.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Any Sativa lover is familiar with the energizing and clear-headed high of Haze strains. What’s not to love? The effects are divine—stimulating, creative, and focused—making it a go-to for artists, thinkers, and anyone chasing a functional daytime high. But Haze isn’t just another strain; it’s a cornerstone of cannabis history. The Original Haze, first bred in the 1970s, became the genetic foundation for countless legendary strains, including Super Silver Haze, Jack Herer, and Blue Dream. Its uplifting nature and complex terpene profile helped define what a “Sativa” experience could be: electric, cerebral, and socially engaging.

At Starbird, we are all about embracing the icons of cannabis. Haze also set the standard for breeding in the cannabis community. It pushed growers to chase nuanced effects, intricate flavors, and high-potency highs. It gave rise to a new wave of cultivars that emphasized clarity over couch-lock. In short, Haze didn’t just contribute to the culture—it inspired it. From coffeeshop menus in Amsterdam to top shelves in California dispensaries, Haze has earned its spot as a timeless staple and continues to influence modern genetics today.

Who Created the Original Haze Strain?

   The genesis of Haze strains is a bit mysterious, as the information is passed on mostly by word of mouth rather than any written documents. Allegedly, the Original Haze is rooted in Santa Cruz, California in the 1970s, where two men known as the Haze brothers were growing pure Sativa strains. They experimented with plants from Mexico, Thailand and India as well as the iconic Colombian Gold and eventually had the result of a potent, powerful variety that embodied the best traits of its diverse lineage. In essence, Haze represents landrace Sativas from all reaches of the globe. 

The Haze Brothers were novice breeders, so they passed on their most stable Haze offspring to Sam the Skunkman, the legendary breeder behind Skunk #1. Sam took the seeds to his home in Holland in 1984, the headquarters of cannabis seeds. He began to stabilize Haze and make it easier to grow indoors by crossbreeding it with strains like Skunk. Sam then introduced the seeds to Nevil Shoenmakers, the founder of the Seed Bank of Holland, now merged with the large Sensi Seed Bank. 

   Nevil Shoenmakers, often called “the father of cannabis breeding” was a cannabis breeder with a unique Australian-Dutch upbringing. The Seed Bank of Holland is legendary for being the first commercial cannabis seed company. This made cannabis accessible to growers and breeders everywhere, contributing to rising popularity of strains like Northern Lights, Skunk, and of course, Haze. 

Nevil Shoenmakers developed a legendary Sativa-dominant hybrid known as Nevil’s Haze — a cheeky nod to his own name and his breeding genius. This powerhouse strain was born from a cross between the stabilized Original Haze and the iconic Northern Lights #5. The result? A potent, cerebral masterpiece that preserved the psychedelic energy of landrace Sativas while adding structure and stability. Neville’s Haze didn’t just make waves — it became the genetic backbone of even more world-famous strains, including Super Silver Haze and Amnesia Haze, both of which dominate cannabis competitions and menus to this day. 

In many ways, the story of Haze is also the story of cannabis itself — a tale of passion, experimentation, and global collaboration. From the Haze Brothers’ backyard experiments in California to the hands of master breeders like Sam the Skunkman and Nevil Shoenmakers in Amsterdam, to the beautiful city of Salem being smoked right from the shelves of Starbird, Haze has traveled the world. Its legacy lives on in countless hybrids, shaping the very genetics that fuel today’s cannabis culture.

The Signature Traits of Haze Strains

Hazes are complex strains that can vary widely depending on what they’ve been crossbred with. Typically, a Haze will carry citrus, pine, and spicy aromas, often rounded out by a subtle hint of frankincense.

Compared to more common lineages like Kush or Cookies, Haze is relatively rare. That’s largely because it’s more challenging to grow — the plants are delicate, tall, and lanky, making them a bit unruly in indoor grow rooms. On top of that, Hazes have a longer flowering time, usually taking anywhere from 10 to 16 weeks, sometimes even longer. This can make them less appealing to casual growers, but for seasoned cultivators with patience and skill, the reward is more than worth it.

Haze strains are beloved for their strong cerebral effects — uplifting, long-lasting, and energizing. This isn’t the type of weed that’s going to leave you melted into the couch; it’s quite the opposite. Many cannabis connoisseurs compare a good Haze to a strong cup of coffee. A well-grown Haze can have you buzzing with ideas, getting through your to-do list, hitting the gym, or diving into something creative. It’s the perfect strain for those who want mental clarity and motivation. If you’re searching for a cheerful pick-me-up or a wake-and-bake that actually keeps you awake — Haze is your go-to.

What Terpenes are in the Haze Strain?

Strains with Haze lineage typically showcase high concentrations of certain dominant terpenes, most notably limonene, terpinolene, and myrcene. However, it’s important to note that terpene profiles can vary significantly depending on the specific phenotype, breeder, or how the strain has been crossbred. Environmental factors like soil, light, and cultivation techniques can also influence terpene expression, meaning no two Haze cuts are ever exactly alike. While these terpenes are commonly present, each Haze hybrid offers its own unique twist on the classic profile.

  Limonene is the bright, citrus-forward terpene responsible for that delectable, lemony bite that so many Haze strains are known for. It’s often the first aroma that hits your senses when you crack open a fresh jar—a zesty, uplifting note. But limonene offers more than just flavor. This terpene is known for its holistic effects, particularly its ability to elevate mood and melt away stress. That’s one of the key reasons why Haze strains tend to feel so vibrant and mentally clear—they energize without overwhelming. Rather than sending you into a racy headspace, limonene brings balance to the buzz, helping to keep the experience upbeat and social. It’s the sparkle behind the euphoria that makes Haze a daytime favorite for many.

Terpinolene is a terpene with a complex flavor and smell which contributes to the layered aroma of any Haze. It is both woody, fruity, and floral. It can be found outside of cannabis in lilacs, sage, and apples. The best words to describe it would be sweet and fresh, however it does often have a nuanced appeal that many are drawn to. The benefits of it are antifungal and antimicrobial. As a lesser known terpene, some studies contradict each other. Many say it is energizing, others argue it is sedative. Regardless, terpinolene often contributes to an elaborate profile of a Haze. 

 Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. While it's often associated with relaxing effects in some strains, in Haze varieties, it plays a slightly different role. Think of myrcene as the grounding force—it helps enhance the entourage effect by subtly amplifying the energizing qualities of other terpenes like limonene and terpinolene. Found naturally in mangoes, thyme, and lemongrass, myrcene contributes a slightly earthy, musky aroma with hints of fruit. In Haze strains, myrcene levels out the terpene profile, adding depth without dragging down the buzz. It may offer mild tension relief, helping you stay mellow but mentally bright—perfect for daytime creativity or social sessions.

Mandarin Cookies x Haze by Trifecta Farms

Iconic Haze Strains and What Makes Them Special

Haze is impressive in its own right, but its true legacy lies in the strength of its genetics. As a foundational strain, Haze has become an essential building block in modern breeding, known for infusing hybrids with more lifted effects. Its Sativa-forward profile brings clarity, creativity, and elevation — making it the perfect backbone for strains that aim to uplift rather than sedate.

Super Silver Haze

A cross between Skunk and Nevil’s Haze, this magnificent strain was born in the mid-1990s at Amsterdam’s Green House Seed Company, bred by the aforementioned Nevil Shoenmakers. The effects of this hybrid-leaning Sativa hit fast—sometimes before you’ve even finished exhaling. The influence of Skunk make this variety taste a bit more obvious, classic dank. The high is powerful, heady, and energizing, earning it a devoted following of cannabis lovers who swear by its uplifting experience. It’s no wonder this strain took home first place at the High Times Cannabis Cup three years in a row.

Jack Herer 

A more sensible variety than its racier offshoots, Jack Herer was bred to be a more balanced expression of Haze. While the exact genetics are a bit foggy, it's widely believed to be a cross between Haze and Shiva Skunk. Shiva Skunk itself is a blend of Northern Lights #5 and Skunk #1.

What sets Jack apart is its more gentle, blissful high. It delivers a buzzing sensation in both body and mind—uplifting without being overwhelming. Perfect for socializing or turning everyday tasks into something a little more enjoyable, Jack Herer is well suited for anyone looking for a refreshing, lucid high with just enough relaxation to keep things calm.

Blue Dream – One of the most sought-after strains on the market, Blue Dream is a hybrid that merges classic Haze genetics with Blueberry, offering a smooth, uplifting experience without the edge some Hazes carry. It's widely believed to have originated in Santa Cruz, the same region where Haze first took root. Blue Dream stands out for its easygoing nature — a high that’s bright and happy, yet also relaxing. The flavor is sweet and tangy, with fruity berry notes up front and a subtle spice that comes through on the exhale. It's perfectly mellow but stimulating, ideal for nature walks, vibing to music or just daydreaming. Once you smoke it, you’ll understand why it has had such lasting popularity. 

Super Lemon Haze A popular Haze baby, prized for its bold, zesty citrus profile that bursts with notes of lemon peel, tart candy, and a hint of sweetness. The aroma fills your nose with bright, tangy energy, while the flavor lingers on the tongue like sour candy. Bred by Green House Seeds, this strain is the offspring of Super Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk, combining two powerhouses into one unforgettable cultivar. The effects are just as vibrant as the flavor—cheerful, giggly, and motivating—making it a perfect daytime strain for boosting mood  or just riding a happy high.

Purple Haze Not just a legendary Jimi Hendrix song, but also one of the most iconic cannabis strains of all time. This vibrant cultivar is believed to be a cross between Purple Thai and Haze, combining exotic landrace energy with the electrifying cerebral kick that Haze lovers crave. This classic delivers a high-energy, tingly head buzz paired with a gentle body effect that feels like a warm hug. The result is a strain that’s both stimulating and dreamy, sparking creativity, enhancing sensory perception, and making everything feel just a little more alive. To make it even better, it has a comforting smell of earthy sweetness matched with the taste of jam berries, with a hint of skunk. Purple Haze is an intense and uplifting variety of Haze—perfect for daytime use, intimate moments, or simply riding the wave of inspiration when it hits.

Super Silver Haze under a microscope

Why Haze Strains Are Still Popular Today

Decades later, Haze still hasn’t lost its appeal. For sativa lovers, it offers something few others do — a distinct clarity and energy that many other strains can’t capture. There’s a reason people keep coming back to it. It’s not just nostalgia. It’s the effect, the smell, the unmistakable lift that hits differently than newer strains trying to do the same thing.

But Haze isn’t just about the experience — it’s also one of the most influential building blocks in cannabis breeding. Its genetics have helped shape some of the most iconic strains of the past few decades, from Jack Herer to Super Silver Haze to modern-day staples like Blue Dream. Even today, breeders continue to tap into Haze lines to bring out brightness, complexity, and that signature spark in new hybrids.

Growers have refined things over time, too. Modern Hazes are cleaner, more consistent, and easier to manage. Yields are better. Terpenes come through louder. Potency holds up. And all that work behind the scenes means Haze isn’t just a legacy strain — it’s a cornerstone of modern cannabis, still very much part of the present.

As we look at today’s market, it’s clear that Haze isn’t just a piece of cannabis history — it’s a living blueprint for the future of Sativa genetics. Weed is so often understood as sedative, couch-locking, and laziness-inducing — but there are plenty of people who crave a productive high, something full of movement and mental spark. These strains are for those whose ideal high is lively — for someone who doesn’t want to zone out, but rather, tune in.

 It’s too easy to smoke a bowl and feel like you completely zone out, leading to a tired night of boredom or lethargy. If you’ve found yourself feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or just plain knocked out by the weed you’re smoking, try a Haze strain instead — and rediscover what it feels like to light up and come alive.

Fly high!