Special Queen #1: The Yield Machine
Special Queen #1: The Yield Machine
Strain Overview
Type: Balanced Hybrid (50% Sativa / 50% Indica)
Breeder: Royal Queen Seeds (RQS)
Market Status: The "People’s Champion"; Special Queen #1 is legendary in the European cannabis community, not for being the most expensive or the most hyped, but for being the most reliable. It was designed by RQS to revive the classic "Old School Skunk" vibe at a price point anyone could afford. It is widely considered the ultimate "Cash Crop" strain—offering massive yields, rapid flowering times, and indestructible genetics for a budget price.
THC Content: Moderate-High (18%)
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
Key Effects: Long-Lasting Relaxation, Uplifting Head High, Classic "Stoned" Feeling
Special Queen #1 is the Honda Civic of the cannabis world: affordable, reliable, and it runs forever.
It isn't trying to be a fancy "California Dessert" strain. It doesn't taste like cereal milk or birthday cake. It tastes like weed. It offers that classic, pungent Skunk aroma that defined the 90s and early 2000s. For growers, it is the golden standard of efficiency, capable of filling jars quicker and easier than almost any other strain on the market.
History and Lineage: The Skunk Revival
This strain was created to bring high-quality Skunk genetics to the masses.
The Mother (Power Bud): A high-yielding variant of the Power Plant family. It brings Sativa-like growth vigor and massive bud structure to the table.
The Father (Skunk): The genetic backbone of modern cannabis. It provides the reliability, the pungent aroma, and the fast flowering time.
The Goal: RQS wanted a strain that possessed the commercial viability of Big Bud but with the superior flavor and effect of a classic Skunk. Special Queen #1 was the result—a plant that refuses to quit.
Terpene Profile: The Classic Funk
If you walked into a Dutch coffeeshop in 2005, this is what it smelled like.
Dominant Terpenes
Myrcene (The Musk): The dominant terpene. It provides that heavy, herbal, and musky base that defines Skunk strains. It is responsible for the relaxing physical effects.
Caryophyllene (The Spice): Adds a sharp peppery kick that tickles the nose.
Pinene (The Forest): A subtle pine note that freshens up the heavy musk.
Flavor Notes:
The Aroma: It is loud. It smells of damp earth, spicy hash, and sweet fruit.
The Smoke: Smooth and savory. It tastes of licorice, skunk, and spice. It is a nostalgic flavor for veteran smokers.
Strain Effects: The Balanced Stone
Special Queen #1 offers a "Complete" high. It hits the mind and the body in equal measure.
The Experience
The Head: The high starts with a distinct Sativa uplift. You feel happy, alert, and perhaps a bit hazy behind the eyes.
The Body: As the Myrcene takes effect, a wave of physical relaxation spreads through the body. It isn't a knockout punch like Royal Skywalker; it's a comfortable buzz.
The Duration: It is surprisingly long-lasting. A single joint can keep you in a state of "stoned contentment" for hours.
The Vibe: It is a versatile strain. You can smoke it while cleaning the house (thanks to the Power Bud) or while watching a movie (thanks to the Skunk).
Best For: All-day use, budget-conscious smokers, stress relief, and social gatherings.
Growing Special Queen #1: The Green Giant
This is where the strain earns its royalty. It is practically impossible to mess up.
Growth Structure
The Yield: Massive. This is one of the highest-yielding strains in the RQS catalog. Indoors, it easily hits 500–550g/m². Outdoors, it can turn into a 3-meter monster yielding over 500g per plant.
The Stretch: Be warned: It has Sativa energy. It grows Tall. Indoors, it can reach 140cm if not trained. You must manage its height.
The Speed: Despite its size, it finishes flowering in just 7 to 8 weeks. This speed/yield ratio is why commercial growers love it.
The Hardiness: It is built for European weather. It handles mold, pests, and beginner mistakes (like nutrient burn or underwatering) with ease.
The Training: It loves abuse. You can top it, crop it, or SCROG it. It will bounce back stronger every time.
Grower’s Tip: Because it grows so fast and produces such heavy buds, the branches can snap under their own weight. Use bamboo stakes or trellis nets early in the flowering stage to support the colas. Also, ensure your carbon filter is working—this plant stinks in late flower.
Final Verdict: The Yield Machine
Special Queen #1 is the ultimate utility strain. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune on seeds to get a mountain of high-quality cannabis. It offers a classic, enjoyable high and a grow experience that is smooth, fast, and incredibly rewarding. If you are a beginner looking for your first success, or a veteran looking to fill your pantry quickly, the Queen is at your service.
You should choose Special Queen #1 if:
You are on a Budget (Affordable seeds).
You are a Beginner (Easy to grow).
You want Massive Yields.
You love Old School Skunk flavors.
Score: 9.2/10 (The Value Champion)