By @medsforheads

One of the most influential and controversial genetics today has got to be Zkittles. Bred by Mendocino’s 3rd Gen Family Farm and Terp Hogz, the cross of Grape Ape, Grapefruit and a third, closely protected mystery strain has become famous and coveted for its distinctive fruity candy flavor and exhilarating yet balanced euphoric effects, as well as the trademark infringement lawsuit lobbied by Mars Wrigley that forced a name change to “Original Z” throughout the regulated market. Despite Z’s popularity and an abundanZe of croZZeZ, it’s been an elusive plant to find on Illinois shelves, likely due to its notorious difficulty to grow and lackluster bag appeal. However, Aeriz’s licensing of California cannabis brands UpNorth and Fig Farms has brought some West Coast flavors to the Anna, Illinois, cultivator’s stable.

Rainbowz, picked up from NuEra Chicago, is ostensibly Aeriz’s Z, based on the listed cross and all but confirmed after smoking the flower. My eighth was harvested on May 9, three months before I started sampling. It tested at 25.33% THCa with top terpenes listed as b-caryophyllene (0.72%), limonene (0.54%), b-myrcene (0.49%), and a-humulene (0.26%).

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Inside the jar sat four chunky, strawberry-sized buds colored with mallard and kelly greens. Under magnification, a substantial population of trichome heads could be seen dotting the flower like a pointillist painting.

Even before grinding, Rainbowz emitted a sharp, clean scent of citrus rinds soaked in Murphy oil soap that made my nostrils tingle. The effervescence of grapefruit soda bubbled up in the mix with an activating tartness.

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A dry hit of a joint or clean pipe loaded with the hybrid flower screamed with mouthwatering flavor, delivered unadulterated in the smoke along with a lingering presence of lemongrass. For something originally named after a candy full of artificial sweeteners and colors, tasting the Rainbowz was a naturally sweet surprise, serving up herbaceous fruitiness with just a hint of sugary sorbates.

After a few tokes, a soaring high set in that got me up and moving, marveling at the trees I strolled past and the beauty of the summer day. Feeling whimsical and slightly stupid, I was able to perform mindless tasks but struggled to keep my attention on a single idea for long.

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The youthful energy that sprung forth in the onset transitioned to munchies and sleepies after a couple of hours, leaving me with a satisfied impression of some quintessential “brain vacation” kind bud. For more Illinois News Joint reviews, click here.

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FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.

Effects & Medical Attributes are based on anecdotal evidence. Individual experiences can be varied.