Bruce Banner #3: The Incredible Hulk
Bruce Banner #3: The Incredible Hulk
Strain Overview
Type: Sativa-Dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica)
Breeder: Dark Horse Genetics (Jason Holck)
Lineage: OG Kush x Strawberry Diesel
Market Status: A Modern Legend; formerly named "Earth's Strongest Strain" by High Times.
THC Content: 25% – 30%+ (Extremely High)
Dominant Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene
Key Effects: Immediate Euphoric Rush, Creative Energy, Body Relaxation, Happy Calm
In the comic books, Bruce Banner is a mild-mannered scientist who transforms into a green monster of unstoppable power. The cannabis strain Bruce Banner #3 fits this description perfectly.
Bred by Jason Holck of Dark Horse Genetics in Denver, Colorado, this strain was one of the first to shatter the "30% THC" glass ceiling, landing it the title of "Strongest Strain on Earth" by High Times magazine in 2014. It is a genetic masterpiece that balances the crushing power of the OG Kush family with the racy, sweet energy of Strawberry Diesel.
While there are five distinct phenotypes of Bruce Banner, the #3 is the legend. It is the phenotype that retained the most "Diesel" potency while capturing the sweet strawberry undertones, creating a monster that hits hard, tastes amazing, and refuses to let you be angry.
History and Lineage: The Denver Experiment
Bruce Banner #3 wasn't an accident; it was a hunt for power.
The Mother (OG Kush): Specifically, the Ghost OG cut. This is one of the most potent and sought-after versions of OG Kush, known for its heavy sedative effects and lemon-pine-fuel aroma. It brings the raw power and Indica density.
The Father (Strawberry Diesel): A cross of NYC Diesel and Strawberry Cough. This parent contributes the soaring Sativa energy and the distinct sweet berry/gas terpene profile.
The Selection: Jason Holck bred these two and found five main phenotypes.
#1: Balanced, but not the strongest.
#5: Yielded huge, but lacked flavor.
#3: The Holy Grail. It had the yield, the strawberry flavor, and testing that broke charts.
Terpene Profile: Strawberry Fuel
Bruce Banner #3 smells like a drag race in a strawberry patch. It is complex, layering sweetness over heavy industrial funk.
Dominant Terpenes
Caryophyllene (The Gas): The dominant terpene, providing a spicy, peppery kick that hits the nose instantly. It is responsible for the "Diesel" part of the profile.
Limonene (The Citrus): Adds a sharp zest that brightens the aroma and contributes to the mood-lifting effects.
Myrcene (The Sweetness): Provides the earthy base that allows the strawberry notes to shine through without smelling artificial.
Flavor Notes:
The Aroma: It is pungent. A mix of fresh strawberries, diesel fuel, and earthy kush.
The Smoke: Surprisingly smooth for such a potent strain. The inhale is sweet and candy-like, while the exhale leaves a lingering taste of gas and spicy earth.
Strain Effects: Smash the Stress
Despite its terrifying name, the high is actually incredibly happy and euphoric. It is the "Hulk" because it smashes bad vibes, not because it makes you rage.
The Experience
The Transformation: The high hits the head almost immediately (the Sativa side). You feel a rush of euphoria and energy. Colors look brighter, and a "headband" pressure sets in.
The Creative Spark: For the first hour, you are alert, creative, and talkative. It is excellent for social situations or brainstorming.
The Settle: The OG Kush genetics eventually catch up. The high travels down the spine, relaxing the muscles and calming the body.
The Balance: Unlike pure Indicas, it doesn't usually knock you out (unless you overconsume). You remain awake, just incredibly relaxed and happy.
Best For: Social parties, creative art projects, daytime stress relief, and managing anger or depression.
Medical Benefits
Bruce Banner #3 is a favorite in the medical community because it offers high-potency relief without instant sedation.
Depression & PTSD: It is widely considered one of the best mood-elevators available. The rapid onset of euphoria breaks negative thought cycles instantly.
ADD/ADHD: The high energy and focus (from the Strawberry Diesel) can help scatterbrained patients zero in on tasks.
Chronic Pain: The high THC content numbs the body effectively, making it useful for migraines and arthritis.
Fatigue: It provides a mental spark that fights lethargy.
Growing Bruce Banner #3: The Green Monster
This plant grows like the Hulk—big, fast, and hungry.
Growth Structure
The Size: It is a tall plant. It has vigorous Sativa growth patterns and will stretch significantly in flower.
The Yield: Massive. It is known as a heavy yielder, producing huge, dense colas that often require staking to prevent branches from snapping.
The Color: The leaves are a vibrant, bright "Hulk" green, often contrasting with bright orange pistils.
Flowering Time: 9 to 10 weeks.
Grower’s Tip: Because of the huge colas and density, humidity control is critical. Keep the humidity low (below 45%) in the final weeks to prevent mold. Also, this plant is a heavy feeder (Magnesium specifically), so don't be shy with the nutrients.
Final Verdict: The Strongest Avenger
Bruce Banner #3 is a bucket-list strain. It represents the pinnacle of the "High Potency" era, proving that you could push THC levels to 30% without sacrificing flavor. It offers a perfect dichotomy: the sweet strawberry taste of the Diesel and the crushing power of the OG. If you want a strain that hits you with the force of a gamma-ray burst but leaves you smiling and relaxed, you want the Banner.
You should choose Bruce Banner #3 if:
You have a high tolerance (25%+ THC).
You love Strawberry and Gas flavor profiles.
You need mood elevation and stress relief.
You want a high-yielding hybrid for your garden.
Score: 9.5/10 (The Heavy Hitter)