The Skunk #1, also known as Skunk No. 1, is a hybrid cannabis strain that has influenced cannabis on a large scale, giving rise to several skunk crosses since its first flowering in the 1970s.
The Sacred Seed Co. collective originally popularized Skunk #1, created by Sam the Skunkman from several varieties. the Afghani, theAcapulco Gold and the Colombian Gold were crossed through a complex process of selective reproduction that took several generations.
Skunk #1 has spawned several variations grown in the gardens of Sensi Seeds, Dutch Passion, Nirvana Seeds, Flying Dutchmen and Royal Queen Seeds. As its name suggests, Skunk #1 has a strong aromatic blend and subtle earthy notes. This hybrid boosts creativity, while stress and loss of appetite melt away with the power of Skunk #1.
Skunk: origins and history
Skunk is undoubtedly one of the world's best-known and most widely cultivated cannabis strains. The word «skunk» is often used by «mainstream» journalists to designate cannabis with a high THC content, but in fact refers to a plant descended from Skunk #1 made by breeder Sam The Skunkman and his Sacred Seeds team in the late 70s in California.
Skunk #1 is at the origin of all the skunk varieties growing today, and also of the UK Cheese (an exceptional seed found in a packet of Skunk #1 seeds from Sensi Seeds). At the time, Skunk #1 was selected outdoors with several thousand plants - 20,000 according to Sam. Skunk #1 thus inherited tremendous stability and powerful aromas.
Skunk plants are generally early-flowering, well-stabilized and have good yields and potency (between 14 and 16% THC). For these reasons, Skunk #1 is often used as the basis for new hybrids such as Skunk Haze (20 - 22% THC) or Hawaiian Skunk (11 - 17% THC).
Skunk arrived in Europe via Amsterdam in the 80s. Sam the Skunkman sold his cannabis seeds, including Skunk #1, under the Cutlivator's Choice brand. A few years later, he filed for bankruptcy and sold (some say gave away) the last of his stock to Neville Shoenmakers, then owner of The Seed Bank, which later became Sensi Seeds.
Originally, there were two types of #1 Skunk: «Sweet Skunk», which is Sam the Skunkman's, predominantly sativa with mild aromas and a pleasant effect, and «Road Kill Stunk» with a more indica tendency and more intense aromas.
Today, the mildest version of Skunk #1 is known as «The Pure» and is sold by Sensi Seeds which has bought out The Flying Dutchmen. Mr. Nice Seed Bank offers «Shit Skunk», with a Skunk x Skunk lineage and more pronounced Afghani Indica origins. Mr Nice also offers other Skunk #1 hybrids, such as Master Kush x Skunk #1 and G13 x Skunk #1.
Some legendary varieties have been worked with Skunk #1: the Shiva Skunk (Northern Lights #5 x Skunk #1), the G13 or the Haze. Skunk #1 took first place in the first annual High Times Cannabis Cup in 1988.
Skunk #1 aromas and terpenes
Skunk #1 is the origin of the term «skunk», used in common parlance to describe cannabis with a strong, distinctive smell. Its aromas are musky, earthy and intense, with peaks of lemon, pine and sometimes ammonia according to phenotype.
This powerful aromatic profile is driven by :
- Myrcene dominant terpene, responsible for earthy, musky notes; reinforces relaxing effects
- Caryophyllene spicy, peppery notes, anti-inflammatory properties of its own
- Ocimene herbaceous and slightly sweet nuances that soften the overall profile
The smoke is thick and generous, with an earthy, slightly lemony taste. The smell in cultivation is particularly powerful. Skunk #1 requires a solid indoor filtration system.
What are the effects of Skunk #1?
The effects of Skunk #1 are balanced and progressive, This is a strain that is true to its hybrid genetics, with THC levels between 15 and 20% in favourable growing conditions. It's a strain that doesn't take the edge off: it installs its effects without a violent rush, making it an accessible option even for intermediate consumers.
Initial phase : A creative euphoria quickly settles in, accompanied by a frankly good mood. Mental stress dissipates, appetite returns. Skunk #1 is reputed to boost creativity - an effect inherited from its sativa parents.
Main phase : The body relaxes gradually, without becoming sedated. The effect is pleasant and functional: you remain active and sociable, without couch-lock.
Main effects :
- Euphoria and good humor
- Stimulating creativity
- Light to moderate muscle relaxation
- Appetite stimulation
- Reduced stress and anxiety
Possible side effects:
- Dry mouth and dry eyes (frequent)
- Mild paranoia in high doses
- Drowsiness if consumed in large quantities
Skunk's balanced effects make it effective for many medical conditions, including pain relief and easing muscle tension.
Growing Skunk #1
Skunk #1 is reputed to be one of the world's most popular easy to grow This is one of the reasons for its massive adoption by breeders and amateur growers over the past 40 years.
Indoors :
- Output: 450-500 g/m².
- Flowering: 49 to 63 days - among the shortest on the market
- Robust, predictable growth, excellent genetic stability
- ⚠️ Very strong odour at the end of flowering - carbon filter essential
Outdoor :
- Harvest: late September to early October
- Adaptable to many climates, withstands harsh conditions better than most varieties
- Early flowering, ideal for latitudes where autumn arrives early
