Quick Answer
Lemon Meringue strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing Lemon Skunk and Cookies n’ Cream. It typically tests around 70% sativa and 30% indica. The effects are mostly cerebral and energizing, typical of sativa-leaning strains.
Lemon Meringue is a unique and tasty sativa-dominant hybrid strain. With a complex genetic background and distinct lemon flavor profile, it has caught the attention of many cannabis connoisseurs and breeders. But there has been some debate around whether Lemon Meringue should be classified as a straight sativa or a sativa-dominant hybrid. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Lemon Meringue’s lineage and effects to determine whether it’s more sativa or indica.
Lemon Meringue’s Origins
Lemon Meringue was bred by DNA Genetics, the acclaimed Amsterdam-based cannabis seed company. It’s a cross between Lemon Skunk and Cookies n’ Cream. Let’s look closer at each of its parent strains:
Lemon Skunk
Lemon Skunk is a sativa-dominant hybrid with a citrusy terpene profile. It was bred from two skunky sativa-leaning strains: Skunk #1 and Citral. Skunk #1 is a well-known sativa that has influenced many popular strains. Citral is a lesser known sativa strain with a strong lemon aroma. So Lemon Skunk inherits a predominantly sativa genetic makeup from its lineage.
Cookies n’ Cream
Cookies n’ Cream is an indica-leaning hybrid bred from Girl Scout Cookies and White Russian. Girl Scout Cookies is a hybrid that leans slightly indica. White Russian is an indica-heavy hybrid of White Widow and Ak-47. So Cookies n’ Cream likely expresses more indica traits from its heritage.
Cannabinoid Profile
Lemon Meringue has been measured with a THC content around 18-21%. This potent THC concentration is balanced out by minimal CBD levels of 0.1-0.2%. So Lemon Meringue produces little of the mellowing effects supplied by CBD. The dominant cannabinoid is clearly THC, which lends itself more to sativa-like cerebral effects.
Appearance, Aroma, and Flavor
In terms of appearance, Lemon Meringue has medium sized dense buds that tend to be olive green mixed with purple. The buds are absolutely caked in frosty white trichomes.
The aroma is where Lemon Meringue really expresses its sativa-leaning nature. As you may have guessed, it puts out a strong sour lemon candy scent along with hints of nuttiness. The flavor profile mirrors the aroma when smoked or vaporized, with sweet citrus on the inhale turning more earthy and nutty on the exhale.
Effects and Experience
Lemon Meringue delivers heady sativa-like effects consistent with its genetics. Users describe an uplifting cerebral high that boosts creativity, focus, and energy. The mental stimulation makes this a great daytime strain for completing tasks and enjoying activities.
There are also some relaxing indica effects mixed in, likely from the Cookies n’ Cream side. This balances out the intense sativa high and helps prevent anxiety or paranoia. The body may feel tingly and relaxed but not overly sedated or couch-locked.
The experience lasts around 2 to 3 hours on average. Lemon Meringue is a good choice for social activities or creative endeavors. Medicinal benefits include relief from stress, mild pain, and fatigue. Any indica-related benefits are mild, making this unsuitable for severe insomnia or body aches.
Growing Lemon Meringue
Lemon Meringue can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor plants tend to grow taller while indoor ones remain shorter and bushier. Either way, the plants flower quickly in 7 to 9 weeks. Indoor yields are moderate at around 14 to 16 ounces per square meter.
This strain prefers a warm, sunny, Mediterranean-like climate. Indoors it thrives in a controlled setting with temperatures between 70°F to 80°F. Lemon Meringue is not particularly susceptible to mold, pests, or disease. But growers should still monitor for any signs of problems.
Availability
As a proprietary strain from DNA Genetics, Lemon Meringue seeds are not widely available. Clones and bud can be found at some cannabis shops, dispensaries, and delivery services, mainly in legal western US states like California, Colorado, and Washington. Supply is limited but starting to ramp up as this strain increases in popularity.
Similar Strains
Here are a few strains with comparable genetics and effects to Lemon Meringue:
- Lemon G – Another lemony sativa-dominant hybrid from DNA Genetics
- Super Lemon Haze – Top sativa with lemon notes and an energetic high
- Lemon Kush – 50/50 hybrid with lemon flavor but more relaxation
- Lemon Bean – Hybrid with similar lineage (Lemon Skunk x Cookies and Cream)
Reviews
Lemon Meringue is developing quite a following and largely positive reviews:
Positives
- Sweet and delicious lemon candy flavor
- Happy, euphoric mental high
- Inspires creativity and focus
- Unique terpene profile
- Perfect daytime strain for activities
Negatives
- Limited availability as seeds and bud
- Not the most potent at around 20% THC
- Crash can occur after peak effects wear off
- Dry mouth is common
- May cause anxiety in THC sensitive users
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lemon Meringue is decidedly a sativa-dominant hybrid strain based on its lineage, cannabinoid content, aroma, and reported effects. Both of its parent strains skew towards sativa, giving it a predominantly cerebral and energizing high. Lemon Meringue tests around 70% sativa on average. Any mellowing indica effects seem to be fairly mild. For people seeking an uplifting and creative buzz, Lemon Meringue is a tantalizing sativa-forward option. Just be mindful of the high THC levels that may overwhelm novice consumers.