- Durban Poison is a pure landrace Sativa strain originating from South Africa, dating back to 1970.
- Lab tests place its THC content at approximately 15-20%.
- Its lineage runs through Landrace — no known cross, making it a key reference point for breeders.
- 4 documented strains descend from Durban Poison, including modern market favourites.
- Dominant terpenes: Terpinolene, Myrcene, Ocimene — driving its signature aroma and effects.
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.
Flavor Profile
The Story & Lineage Origin
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.
This strain is a staple of Amsterdam coffee shop menus. Check current availability and prices on DAM Live →
Find it on DAM Live: Browse Durban Poison across Amsterdam Coffee Shop Menus, Amsterdam Cannabis Guides, or see its live Amsterdam price index →
Live Amsterdam Pricing
See real-time prices, availability, and shop locations for Durban Poison at Amsterdam coffeeshops — updated daily.
View Live Menus →Where to Find Durban Poison in Amsterdam
Durban Poison is a popular strain on Amsterdam's coffeeshop menus. Prices and availability change daily based on supply, quality, and seasonal harvests.
- Centrum / De Wallen — Most tourist-facing shops stock popular strains like Durban Poison
- Bedford Factory (Outer Space) — Premium selection with quality-tested Durban Poison
- Barney's Gourmet Flowers — High-end Durban Poison with detailed lab reports
- Grey Area — Curated Durban Poison selection, limited stock
- LOF Amsterdam — Wide Durban Poison variety with delivery options
For live pricing, menu availability, and shop locations — visit DAM Live →
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
What is the THC percentage of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison typically tests at 15-20% THC content in lab results, though actual potency varies by phenotype, growing conditions, and harvest. As a sativa-leaning strain, the THC delivers an uplifting cerebral experience.
Is Durban Poison a sativa or indica?
Durban Poison is a sativa cannabis strain (Sativa). Bred from Landrace — no known cross, its effects lean toward an uplifting, cerebral sativa experience. Users report: Uplifting, energetic, focused, creative, clear-headed.
Durban Poison strain review — what to expect
Durban Poison is known for Uplifting, energetic, focused, creative, clear-headed. A pure sativa landrace from the port city of Durban, South Africa. Unlike most sativas, Durban Poison has a manageable flowering time and exceptional resin production, making it a staple of sativa breeding. The aroma profile features anise/licorice, sweet, spicy, earthy. Dominant terpenes: Terpinolene, Myrcene, Ocimene.
What are the phenotypes of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison expresses several phenotypes and cuts, including Durban Poison, Durban. The dominant phenotypes often show subtle differences in structure, flowering time, color expression, and terpene balance while sharing the same core genetics.
What is Durban Poison crossed from?
Durban Poison was bred from Landrace — no known cross. Detailed ancestry: South African sativa landrace. This cross produces the strain's characteristic effects, terpene profile, and growth pattern.
Is Durban Poison available in Amsterdam coffee shops?
Yes — Durban Poison is found on Amsterdam coffeeshop menus. Live Amsterdam pricing and shop availability is updated daily on DAM Live.
What terpenes are in Durban Poison?
Durban Poison is dominated by Terpinolene, Myrcene, Ocimene. These aromatic compounds shape the strain's signature flavor, aroma, and contribute to its reported effects through the entourage effect.
How much does Durban Poison yield and how long does it flower?
Durban Poison has a flowering time of 9-11 weeks and produces moderate to high yields. Plants reach medium to tall height, making it better suited for larger grow spaces with vertical room.
What is Durban Poison and where does it come from?
Durban Poison is a sativa cannabis strain that originates from South Africa. It belongs to the pre-1970s era of cannabis genetics. A pure sativa landrace from the port city of Durban, South Africa. Unlike most sativas, Durban Poison has a manageable flowering time and exceptional resin production, making it a staple of sativa breeding.
What is the genetic background of Durban Poison?
Durban Poison has the following ancestry: South African sativa landrace.
Is Durban Poison indica or sativa?
Durban Poison is a sativa cannabis strain. Learn how in indica vs sativa classification differs in our strain guide.
What does Durban Poison smell and taste like?
Durban Poison has a Anise/licorice, sweet, spicy, earthy aroma, with flavors described as Sweet licorice, spice, earthy undertones. Its dominant terpenes are Terpinolene, Myrcene, Ocimene.
Recommended Lineage & Breeding Guides
Deepen your understanding of Durban Poison's genetics and history with our editorial research:
Medical Applications
Durban Poison is commonly associated with: