Haze Brothers (Original Haze): The Origin of the Species
Haze Brothers (Original Haze): The Origin of the Species
Strain Overview
Type: 100% Pure Sativa (Landrace Poly-Hybrid)
Origin: Santa Cruz, California (1970s)
Breeders: The "Haze Brothers" (R. and J. Haze)
Lineage: Colombian Gold x Mexican Sativa x Thai x South Indian
THC Content: 18% – 24% (Variable due to landrace nature)
Dominant Terpenes: Terpinolene, Pinene, Caryophyllene
Key Effects: Electric Energy, "No Ceiling" High, Psychedelic, Intense Focus
If you trace the family tree of almost every modern Sativa—from Super Silver Haze to Jack Herer to Amnesia—you will eventually find the same patriarch at the top: Haze Brothers.
Often used synonymously with Original Haze, this is not just a strain; it is the "Ur-Sativa." Created in the late 1960s and early 70s in the coastal mountains of Santa Cruz, this strain was the result of the Haze Brothers (known only as R. and J.) crossing the finest seeds from imported exotic weed.
For decades, the pure "Haze Brothers" genetics were considered virtually ungrowable indoors due to their massive size and refusal to finish flowering. However, they provided the genetic backbone for the Dutch cannabis revolution. To smoke pure Haze Brothers stock is to experience cannabis in its most primal, electric form—before it was tamed by Afghan Indicas.
History and Lineage: The 4-Way Cross
The story of the Haze Brothers is the stuff of legend. They weren't commercial breeders; they were growers who simply wanted the best Sativa high possible.
The Genetic Equation
They utilized four distinct landrace Sativas from around the world to create this masterpiece:
Mexican Sativa (Acapulco Gold?): Provided the early flowering speed and initial potency.
Colombian Gold: Added the heavy, resinous bulk and the "soaring" sensation.
Thai Sativa: Contributed the citrus notes and the sharp, racy energy.
South Indian (Kerala): The final piece of the puzzle, adding complex woodiness and distinct floral traits.
The Migration: The Haze Brothers didn't stabilize the strain. It was Sam the Skunkman (their neighbor and fellow breeder) who collected their seeds and brought them to Amsterdam in the 1980s. From there, it was refined by Neville Schoenmakers, eventually giving birth to the modern Haze market.
Note on the "Haze Brothers Cut": In modern breeding (seen in strains like Cannalope Haze), you will often hear of a specific "Haze Brothers Cut." This refers to a rare, faster-flowering phenotype selected from the original stock that finishes in closer to 10 weeks, rather than the usual 14+.
Terpene Profile: The Smell of Church
If you are used to modern "Candy" strains, Haze Brothers will shock you. It does not smell like dessert. It has an ancient, spicy aroma often described by Dutch smokers as "cathedral incense."
Dominant Terpenes
Terpinolene: The signature Haze terpene. It provides a sharp, fresh, and slightly metallic aroma.
Beta-Caryophyllene: Adds a heavy dose of black pepper and wood spice.
Alpha-Pinene: Contributes to the alertness of the high and the scent of fresh pine sap.
Flavor Notes:
The Aroma: A penetrating mix of frankincense, sandalwood, sour citrus, and leather. It smells expensive and exotic.
The Smoke: It tastes of spicy herbal tea and cedar wood. It is savory and sharp, often leaving a tingling sensation on the tongue.
Strain Effects: The "No Ceiling" High
The term "No Ceiling" was invented for this strain. With most strains, if you keep smoking, you eventually just get sleepy. With Haze Brothers, the more you smoke, the higher you get, until you reach a state of vibrating, psychedelic awareness.
The Experience
The Charge: The effect is immediate and racy. Your heart rate may jump. It feels like a shot of adrenaline.
The Vision: Colors become saturated. Peripheral vision feels wider. It is a highly sensory experience.
The Energy: You cannot sleep on this strain. It is pure fuel for hiking, dancing, or cleaning.
The Edge: Because it has zero CBD and pure Sativa genetics, it can be anxiety-inducing. If you are prone to paranoia, this strain will find it.
Best For: Experienced users, musicians, and outdoor activities.
Medical Benefits
This is not a strain for physical pain relief or insomnia. It is a tool for the mind.
Severe Depression: It is one of the most potent mood-lifters in existence. It forces the brain into a state of engagement.
Chronic Fatigue: It works better than caffeine.
Appetite Stimulation: Despite the energy, it often triggers a strong case of the munchies (a trait inherited from the Thai genetics).
Growing Haze Brothers: The Nightmare
There is a reason pure Haze is rare: it is a nightmare to grow commercially.
Growth Structure
The Stretch: The plants are bamboo-like vines. They can easily triple in height during flowering.
Flowering Time: The pure genetics can take 14 to 16 weeks (or even longer) to finish.
The Leaves: The leaves are impossibly thin, looking more like ferns than cannabis.
The Yield: The buds are wispy and airy (foxtails). You do not grow this for weight; you grow it for the unique effect.
Grower’s Tip: If you attempt to grow this indoors, you must switch to a 12/12 light cycle almost immediately after the seed sprouts. If you veg it for too long, it will outgrow your room.
Final Verdict: The Genetic Gold Standard
Haze Brothers is the grandfather of the Sativa world. While it may lack the bag appeal and density of modern hybrids, it possesses a clarity and potency that has never been fully replicated. It is a piece of living history.
You should seek out Haze Brothers genetics if:
You are a history buff who wants to smoke the weed that fueled the 70s.
You want a high that is 100% cerebral and 0% physical.
You love the taste of spice, wood, and incense.
You are tired of "couch-lock" and want to feel electricity.
Score: 10/10 (The Legend)