White Widow: The Complete Guide
White Widow is one of the most recognized cannabis hybrids in the world — a fixture on every Amsterdam coffeeshop menu since the 1990s. Its dense white trichome layer, balanced 60/40 indica-sativa profile and reliably euphoric, energetic effect have made it a reference for clean, classic hybrid character.
White Widow is a slightly indica-leaning hybrid (60/40) with 18–25% THC and low CBD. Genetics: Brazilian sativa × South Indian indica hybrid, developed in the 1990s by Shantibaba (Green House, later Mr Nice Seeds). Terpenes: myrcene-, pinene-, caryophyllene-dominant — earthy-piney with floral top. Effects: fast onset, clear euphoria, social, mild body. Medical use: stress, mild depression, ADHD focus, chronic fatigue. In Switzerland only as CBD-dominant phenotype; THC version via medical prescription.
On this page
History & origin · Genetics · THC and cannabinoid profile · Terpenes & aroma · Effects & experience · Medical use · Growing notes · Strain comparison · White Widow in Switzerland · FAQ.
History: how White Widow took over the coffeeshop
White Widow was developed in the mid-1990s by breeder Shantibaba (Scott Blakey), then at Green House Seeds in Amsterdam. The strain won the 1995 Cannabis Cup in the Bio category and became the symbol of Dutch coffeeshop culture within a few years — almost every menu still carries a White Widow variant today.
After splitting from Green House Seeds, Shantibaba took the original genetics with him and founded Mr Nice Seeds. Two legitimate lines have existed since: the Green House version (heavily re-selected since the late 90s) and the Mr Nice version (closer to the original).
Genetics & lineage
Official genetics: a Brazilian sativa landrace (mother) crossed with a South Indian indica hybrid (father). Both parents were hand-selected in their origin regions in the early 90s — not modern hybrid genetics, but direct landrace descent.
The Brazilian sativa contributes the euphoric head effect, fast onset and resinous growth. The South Indian indica brings the compact structure, short flowering time (8–9 weeks) and the signature dense trichome production.
THC, CBD and cannabinoid profile
Classic THC range: 18–22%, modern selections reach 25%. CBD typically < 0.2% — a pure THC strain. In Switzerland a CBD-dominant pheno-selection is widespread (CBD 8–15%, THC < 1%), preserving most of the terpene profile.
Secondary cannabinoids: CBG (0.3–0.8%), traces of CBC. The combination of moderate THC and low CBD produces a clear, non-overwhelming high — one of the reasons for its lasting popularity.
FAQ
Is White Widow indica or sativa?
Slightly indica-leaning hybrid (≈60/40). The effect is often perceived as more sativa due to the pinene component.
How much THC does White Widow contain?
Classic 18–22%, up to 25% in modern selections. Medium to upper range.
Why is it called «White Widow»?
Because of the extremely dense white trichome layer that makes the buds look frosted.
Which terpenes dominate?
Myrcene, followed by α-pinene, β-caryophyllene and humulene — hence the earthy-piney, spicy aroma.
How long does the effect last?
Inhaled: onset at 3–7 min, peak at 20–40 min, main effect 1.5–2.5 hours, soft comedown 1 hour.
Is White Widow good for beginners?
Yes — considered one of the most beginner-friendly classic hybrids. Clear effect, easy to dose, no pronounced couch-lock.
What is it used for medically?
Frequently: stress, mild depression, ADHD focus, chronic fatigue and mild pain. Specific clinical studies are missing.
Is White Widow legal in Switzerland?
THC version (> 1% THC) only via medical prescription. CBD-dominant phenotypes under 1% THC are openly available.
White Widow — Effects, Genetics, Terpenes & Switzerland 2026