You might expect one of Mandarin Cookies’ parents to be a Cookies plant. In fact, many claim one of Mandarin Cookies’ parents is exactly that, specifically a Forum Cut Girl Scout Cookies [F1 Durban x OG Kush South Florida]. However, a healthy debate exists as to whether or not GSC is truly one of Mandarin Cookies’ parents.
Mandarin Cookies Strain Genetics
Other reports state that the Cookies parent of Mandarin Cookies isn’t GSC but rather Ethos Cookies #12, produced by Ethos Genetics in Colorado. The other Mandarin Cookies parent, then, is the Mandarin half: Mandarin Sunset, the product of a Herijuana x Orange Skunk cross that yields a tell-tale signature orange flavor. Multiple versions of this strain can be found floating around; in fact another name for this strain is “Mandarin Mints.”
Mandarin Cookies Strain Profile
This strain is beloved for its deliciously zesty flavor profile and aroma. Initial aroma picks up heavy on the citrus side of things, delivering a quick hit of orange, grapefruit and lemons that’s sweet, fresh and clean. A slightly sweet, almost dough-like scent begins to creep in shortly after; some describe this as a cookies/biscotti smell, cereal or lightly toasted almonds. Faint notes of clean mint may be discerned in the background, adding a subtle coolness against the citrus. The taste follows through on smell expectations perfectly: tart ebbs to sweet and finishes with cool floral spice. Some faint diesel/gas notes might be detected on the finish as well.
Two distinct phenotypes can be observed. The more controllable of the two is known for its rich purple hues, smaller size and potent aroma. Mandarin Cookies’ buds are generally deep green or wintergreen with dark orange pistils; they’re also slightly more compact than your typical bud. There is a very generous calyx to leaves ratio which makes this a popular strain with growers. Heavy amounts of trichomes can be spotted throughout, infusing the plant with invaluable terpenes.
Mandarin Cookies Strain Effects
There’s a convention in the cannabis world that citrus-rich strains tend to produce energetic effects. This convention certainly has some truth to it here. The first thing you’ll notice when smoking Mandarin is the speediness of its effect: it has a rapid onset time, and is known to produce an initial feeling of powerful euphoria. Ruminations and worries slide away as you feel a blanket of relaxation wrap around your mind. A sense of purpose or energy may kick in that will leave you wanting to clean your room or finally tackle that daunting task you’ve been avoiding for so long.
Novices should exercise caution as the initial onset high can be instantaneous and potent, and may knock inexperienced users back a little bit. This elevated state of mind will soon be accompanied by a gentle body buzz that isn’t too stony or heavy. Body relaxation isn’t quite couch lock-y but is still strong enough to fade away into a more restful or even sleeping state, a rare feat for a ‘sativa-leaning’ flower. The overall experience is gentle, euphoric and restful. While this is a great strain for general overall use, functioning well both in daytime and evenings, Mandarin Cookies is best enjoyed during the day.
As is the case with so many other strains, a few negative side effects reported here include dry eyes, dry mouth, headache and anxiety for inexperienced users.
Mandarin Cookies Strain Terpenes
The terpene profile here is complex: it begins with a good amount of Limonene, of course, but then adds a litany of other terpenes to create a well-balanced experience. Primary terpenes here include beta-caryophyllene, Myrcene and Linalool to create an uplifting yet relaxing experience. Some alpha-humulene may also be present in smaller amounts. The commercial grower has even noted that Mandarin Cookies is, “…high in everything, honestly: THC, terpenes, yields.”
Mandarin Cookies Strain Entourage Effect
THC content of this strain can be as high as 26%. Meanwhile this cookies strain is sometimes also high in other cannabinoids, namely Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG). CBG is known as “the mother of all cannabinoids” while CBD is noteworthy for its anti-inflammatory properties. These cannabinoids and high terpene content likely create an entourage effect which makes Mandarin Cookies a strain to savor.
Mandarin Cookies Strain Grow Tips
Like most cannabis flowers, Mandarin Cookies requires the basics to get by: maximum exposure to direct sunlight, balanced nutrition and healthy amounts of substrate. This strain can be cultivated in or outdoors, with a typical flowering time of 63 days, though its commercial grower states it can take up to 70 days to achieve maximum yields. Development of Mandarin Cookies is vertically potent, which is why growers may want to consider applying SCROG cultivation techniques. SCROG, or “sea of green” techniques, are designed to help maximize plant growth and yields by accelerating bud development.
By Janelle Lassalle
Artist, Writer, and Content Creator
@jenkhari