As is often the case with strains that bear ‘OG’ in the title, Hell’s OG is characterized as a strong ‘indica’ with a potent body high. Its origins are decidedly mysterious, with no clear information available as to potential breeders. Lineage fares the same. Some say Hell’s OG is the result of a cross between an OG Kush and Blackberry plant; others allege it’s its own OG Kush phenotype, but no one can say for certain.
The Legend of Hell’s OG
Legend has it that the strain’s name has something to do with the Hell’s Angels in Southern California, an infamous national biker club. In fact this strain even used to be referred to as ‘Hell’s Angel OG’ until the Hell’s Angels sent a cease and desist letter to a San Diego dispensary selling the strain in 2014. Use of ‘Hell’s Angel OG’ switched to ‘Hell’s OG’ shortly after.
Whatever the name and origin story, it’s a highly regarded OG Kush and a favorite of NorStar, who said on the Rollitup forums that “The Hell’s Angels OG Kush is one of my favorite smokes, the flavor is just so intense and that lasting taste makes you want to go back to the jar for another bowl.”
Several different phenotypes of Hell’s OG can be found on the market today. Most notable is AltSol’s, a cannabis breeder and cultivator based in Washington D.C. Hell’s OG has also been spotted at dispensaries across Tacoma, Washington in the Pacific Northwest. Presh Cannabis also carries Hell’s OG as a ‘house strain’. Their version of this strain took home 3rd Place in the Indica category at the Rooster Colorado Cup in 2012, and, surprisingly enough, also won 2nd place at the High Times’ 2019 Cannabis Cup in Oregon.
Hell’s OG Strain Effects
This strain is said to be as heavy hitting as indicas go, primarily taking place throughout the body as a powerful couch lock high. While the high is described as being a creeper it begins with an almost immediately noticeable drooping of the eyes and heaviness in the face. Stress, anxiety and depression fade away. Some cerebral effects set in as euphoria begins to wash over, inspiring a happy, uplifted mood and smiles all around. Tense muscles began to relax. This calming strain is also purported to have potent analgesic effects, which makes it a great choice for anyone suffering from chronic pains or aches. Many report this strain is extremely sedating, with narcotic-like effects that can feel psychedelic at times.
The combination of this strain’s signature aroma and potency make it an ideal choice for medical patients. Some conditions that may benefit from use of this strain include anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, chronic pains, muscle spasms and insomnia. Other conditions associated with Hell’s OG medical use include arthritis, fibromyagia and mood disorders.
Given the potent nature of the body high this strain is best advised for nighttime use. Beginners should also exercise caution when consuming this strain as it routinely tests above 25% THC and may induce panic or dizziness if consumed in excess.
Hell’s OG Strain Profile
The bag appeal is strong with this one. Buds are dense yet fluffy and clump together like buds of popcorn. Leaves are a deep, dark green interspersed with brilliant purples reflecting high anthocyanin content. Long, almost brown pistil hairs cover the ensemble while a thick coat of resin makes breaking buds apart a challenge. Plants are long and lanky with distinct lateral branching structure, though they don’t typically grow too tall (< 6 feet).
In terms of aroma the first thing to notice is a smell of musty, damp dark earth similar to woods after a rainfall. A bright citrus scent quickly cuts through, described by some users as blood orange or sour lemons. Fresh, clean pine gently cuts through the mix with faint spice on the backend. Users have described the taste as, “exotic spice that is very sweet at the same time – sugared cardamom mixed with some gasoline then layer in a deep woodsy/moss that lingers.” Breaking apart buds yields a distinctly more hashy scent reminiscent of OG Kush. Combusting buds generates bitter, sour smoke with a powerful kick that lingers on the tongue.
Some reports document the terpene profile of this strain as high in d-Limonene, Myrcene and Nerolidol. Hell’s OG also boasts a high THC content, with THC levels routinely testing at 25%; AltSol’s Generation 5 phenotype tests at 28% THC.
Hell’s OG Strain Grow Tips
Hell’s OG can be grown in or outdoors, though some growers say she favors indoor grows. Indoor grows typically have a flowering time of 7-8 weeks, with up to 10 weeks for outdoor grows. Plants have strong lateral branching but don’t often grow over 6 feet tall and require constant trimming. A Mediterranean climate with high humidity levels is suggested as ideal growing conditions go. Ideal harvest time is at the end of September/early October, with yields of up to 16 ounces/plant for outdoor yields and 12 oz/plant for indoor. Ambitious growers hoping to maximize yields can also employ SCROG techniques with Hell’s OG.
Unfortunately Hell’s OG seeds are not readily available for sale online. However this is one of the strains found in Biker Kush and Jesus OG which may have seeds available. Bodhi Seeds has also bred strains with the Hell’s OG cut as well.
By Janelle Lassalle
Artist, Writer, and Content Creator
@jenkhari