About Durban Poison
Durban Poison is unique among sativa landraces for having a relatively short flowering time while retaining pure sativa effects. It emerged from the South African port city of Durban, a major shipping hub that served as an entry point for cannabis genetics from India and Southeast Asia. The strain was commercialized by American breeders in the 1970s and quickly became a favorite for its sweet, anise-like aroma and clear-headed, energetic high. Its relative fast flowering and mold resistance made it more practical for commercial cultivation than other tropical sativas.
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History
Durban Poison was brought to the US in the 1970s by cannabis travelers returning from South Africa. It was preserved and commercialized by Sacred Seeds and later by Dutch Passion and Nirvana. Its distinct anise/licorice terpene profile (high in terpinolene) makes it immediately identifiable. Unlike many sativas, Durban Poison has proven adaptable to indoor cultivation, making it one of the more accessible pure sativas for modern growers.
Notable breeders: Sacred Seeds, Dutch Passion, Nirvana Seeds
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View Live Menus →Genetic Background
South African sativa landrace
Phenotypes & Cultivars
Durban Poison is available in the following phenotypes and cultivars:
Terpene Profile
Durban Poison is dominated by Terpinolene, Myrcene, Ocimene. These compounds shape the strain's aroma, flavor, and reported effects.
Genetic Families
Durban Poison is part of the following genetic families:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Durban Poison indica or sativa?
Durban Poison is a sativa cannabis strain.
What are the genetics of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison has a genetic lineage of Landrace — no known cross. South African sativa landrace
What is the lineage of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison descends from Landrace — no known cross. South African sativa landrace It belongs to the Landrace Sativa genetic family.
What is the THC content of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison typically tests at 15-20% THC.
What does Durban Poison smell and taste like?
Durban Poison has a Anise/licorice, sweet, spicy, earthy aroma profile, with flavors described as Sweet licorice, spice, earthy undertones.
What are the effects of Durban Poison?
Users report Uplifting, energetic, focused, creative, clear-headed. As a sativa-dominant strain, it is known for uplifting cerebral effects.
What are the phenotypes of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison is known in several phenotypes and cultivars, including Durban Poison, Durban. Each phenotype expresses the same genetics slightly differently — varying in aroma, bud color, growth habit, and effects.
Where can I buy Durban Poison seeds?
Durban Poison seeds are offered by landrace-focused seed banks and preservation projects. Authenticity varies by source, so look for breeders who document region-sourced genetics and provenance. Notable sources include Sacred Seeds, Dutch Passion, Nirvana Seeds.
What is the history of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison was brought to the US in the 1970s by cannabis travelers returning from South Africa. It was preserved and commercialized by Sacred Seeds and later by Dutch Passion and Nirvana. Its distinct anise/licorice terpene profile (high in terpinolene) makes it immediately identifiable. Unlike many sativas, Durban Poison has proven adaptable to indoor cultivation, making it one of the more accessible pure sativas for modern growers.
How long does Durban Poison take to flower?
Durban Poison has a flowering time of approximately 9-11 weeks. Plants grow to a medium to tall height.
Further Reading
Learn more about Durban Poison's genetic family and history:
Medical Applications
Durban Poison is commonly associated with: