Cherry Gorilla, a hybrid cannabis strain created by crossing GG4 and Black Cherry Pie, is known for its balanced effects and unique flavor profile. According to user reviews on Leafly, this strain offers a euphoric and relaxing experience, with THC levels reported to range from the mid-teens to as high as 35% in some batches.
Origins and Genetics
Cherry Gorilla was created by In House Genetics, a Seattle-based breeder known for their micro-breeding techniques. This hybrid strain is the result of crossing two potent parent strains: Gorilla Glue #4 (GG4) and Black Cherry Pie. GG4 is an award-winning hybrid bred from Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel, known for its high potency and aromatic profile. Black Cherry Pie, on the other hand, is a cross between Cherry Pie and Blackberry Kush, contributing sweet flavors and balanced effects to the offspring. The combination of these genetics has produced a well-balanced hybrid in Cherry Gorilla, inheriting the best traits from both parents and resulting in a strain with a complex terpene profile and a THC content that can reach up to 26%.
Cultivation Guidelines
Cherry Gorilla strain can be successfully cultivated both indoors and outdoors, with specific requirements for optimal growth. Here’s a concise overview of key cultivation tips:
| Cultivation Aspect | Indoor Guidelines | Outdoor Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Light Requirements | 18-24 hours during vegetative stage, 12 hours during flowering | Full sun exposure |
| Temperature | 70-85°F day, 65-75°F night | Mediterranean-like climate |
| Humidity | 40-50% | Moderate humidity |
| Soil/Medium | Well-draining soil or hydroponic setup | Rich, well-drained soil |
| Flowering Time | 8-9 weeks | Harvest in late September to early October |
| Yield | Medium to high | Medium to high |
| Special Techniques | Responds well to Sea of Green (SOG) and Screen of Green (SCROG) methods | Regular pruning for air circulation |
Cherry Gorilla thrives in warm, sunny environments and requires attentive care to manage humidity levels and prevent mold. The strain benefits from occasional topping and pruning, which can enhance yield and bud quality. When cultivated with proper techniques, Cherry Gorilla can produce a generous harvest of dense, resinous buds.
Effects and Medicinal Benefits
Cherry Gorilla offers a range of effects and medicinal benefits that make it popular among both recreational and medical cannabis users. Here’s an overview of its key effects and therapeutic applications:
- Effects:
- Euphoric and uplifting mental state
- Relaxing body high
- Balanced experience between cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation
- Medicinal Benefits:
- Chronic pain relief
- Anxiety reduction
- Stress management
- Potential aid for insomnia
- May help with depression
- Can alleviate nausea and stimulate appetite
The strain’s balanced effects stem from its hybrid nature, combining the cerebral stimulation of Sativa with the soothing qualities of Indica. Its high THC content, which can range from 17% to 26.66%, contributes to its potency and effectiveness. However, due to its strength, Cherry Gorilla is often recommended for experienced cannabis users or those with a higher THC tolerance.
Terpene Profile
Cherry Gorilla’s complex aroma and flavor profile is attributed to its diverse terpene composition. The strain’s unique blend of terpenes not only contributes to its sensory characteristics but also plays a role in its effects and potential therapeutic benefits.
- Key terpenes in Cherry Gorilla:
- Limonene (1.13%): Provides citrusy notes and may contribute to mood elevation
- β-Caryophyllene (0.33%): Offers spicy, peppery notes and potential anti-inflammatory properties
- Linalool (0.24%): Adds floral accents and may promote relaxation
- β-Pinene (0.24%): Contributes to the earthy, pine-like aroma
- α-Pinene (0.20%): Enhances the woody scent and may aid in mental clarity
- Myrcene (0.14%): Adds herbal notes and potentially enhances the sedative effects
- Humulene (0.13%): Provides subtle earthy, woody undertones
- Ocimene (0.08%): Contributes sweet and herbal notes
This terpene profile creates a harmonious blend of fruity, earthy, and diesel-like aromas, resulting in Cherry Gorilla’s distinctive scent and taste. The combination of these terpenes may also synergize with cannabinoids to produce the strain’s unique effects and potential therapeutic benefits.
Cannabinoid Profile
Cherry Gorilla is known for its potent THC content and relatively low CBD levels. Here’s a breakdown of the cannabinoid profile based on available data:
- THC Content:
- Average range: 17% to 26.66%
- Some reports indicate potential peaks up to 27%
- Typical average: 18-24%
- CBD Content:
- Generally low, typically less than 1%
- Reported range: 0.26% to 0.48%
- Cannabinoid Balance:
- High THC to CBD ratio
- Potency suitable for experienced users
- Effects can be intense and long-lasting
This cannabinoid profile contributes to Cherry Gorilla’s strong psychoactive effects and potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for conditions responsive to THC. The high THC content makes it important for users to consume responsibly and be aware of their tolerance levels.
Flavor and Aroma Profile
Cherry Gorilla offers a complex and enticing flavor and aroma profile that reflects its diverse genetic lineage. The strain’s sensory characteristics are a harmonious blend of sweet and earthy notes, creating a unique and memorable experience for users.
- Flavor profile:
- Sweet cherry undertones
- Earthy base notes
- Subtle diesel hints
- Hints of chocolate and spice
- Smooth, well-balanced taste
- Aroma characteristics:
- Fresh and fruity scent
- Prominent cherry fragrance
- Pungent diesel notes
- Earthy and woody undertones
- Slight sour edge
The strain’s flavor and aroma are largely influenced by its terpene composition, with limonene contributing citrusy notes, β-caryophyllene adding spiciness, and linalool providing floral accents. This intricate blend of flavors and scents makes Cherry Gorilla a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated sensory experience.
Medical Applications
Cherry Gorilla has gained recognition in the medical cannabis community for its potential therapeutic applications. Based on user reports and limited clinical observations, this strain has shown promise in addressing several medical conditions:
- Common conditions treated with Cherry Gorilla:
- Chronic pain management
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- PTSD symptoms
- Nausea, particularly in cancer patients
- Fatigue
- Reported benefits:
- Significant pain relief, especially for chronic conditions
- Mood elevation and stress reduction
- Improved sleep quality
- Reduced anxiety symptoms
- Alleviation of PTSD-related distress
- Nausea reduction in chemotherapy patients
While anecdotal evidence supports these uses, it’s important to note that more rigorous clinical studies are needed to fully validate Cherry Gorilla’s medical efficacy. The strain’s high THC content (17-26.66%) is believed to contribute to its therapeutic potential, particularly for pain management and mood disorders. However, this potency also necessitates careful dosing and professional guidance for medical use.
Recreational Use
Cherry Gorilla is a popular strain for recreational use, offering a balanced experience that can enhance various activities and social settings. Here’s an overview of its recreational applications based on user experiences and testimonials:
- Popular recreational uses:
- Social gatherings and parties
- Creative pursuits (art, music, writing)
- Relaxation and unwinding after a long day
- Movie nights and gaming sessions
- Outdoor activities and nature appreciation
- User experiences:
- “Incredible, balanced high. Euphoria and happiness soak your existence without knocking you out.”
- “Very clean, tasty, and loud high. The high lasted about 2 hours and I was able to both, get things done, and also zone out from time to time.”
- “Delicious and very high in THC. I felt relaxed and alert like blue dream makes me.”
- “This strain is like heaven, great for depression, heavy euphoria and body high.”
Many users report that Cherry Gorilla provides a well-balanced experience, combining mental stimulation with physical relaxation. This makes it versatile for various recreational activities, from social interactions to solo creative endeavors. However, due to its potency, with THC levels reaching up to 26.66%, it’s often recommended for experienced users or those with higher tolerance levels.
Growing Conditions
Cherry Gorilla thrives in specific growing conditions that optimize its yield and potency. Here’s a summary of the optimal growing conditions for this strain:
| Aspect | Optimal Conditions |
|---|---|
| Climate | Warm, dry, Mediterranean-like |
| Temperature | 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day, 65-75°F (18-24°C) at night |
| Humidity | 40-50% during flowering |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining with organic matter |
| pH | 6.0-6.5 |
| Light | Full sun exposure outdoors, 18-24 hours during veg and 12 hours during flowering indoors |
Cherry Gorilla prefers a warm, dry climate similar to Mediterranean regions. The strain benefits from rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter to support healthy growth and bud development. Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels is crucial for preventing mold and optimizing resin production. When grown under these conditions, Cherry Gorilla can produce high yields of potent, aromatic buds.
Harvesting and Curing
Proper harvesting and curing techniques are crucial for maximizing the potency and flavor of Cherry Gorilla. Here are the best practices for harvesting and curing this strain:
- Optimal harvesting time:
- 8-9 weeks flowering time for indoor grows
- Late September to early October for outdoor cultivation
- Harvest when trichomes are mostly milky white with some amber coloration
- Harvesting and trimming:
- Cut whole plants or individual branches
- Remove large fan leaves
- Trim excess foliage around buds
- Drying process:
- Hang plants upside down in a dark, cool (60-70°F), and well-ventilated space
- Maintain 45-55% humidity
- Dry for 7-10 days until stems snap when bent
- Curing techniques:
- Place trimmed buds in airtight glass jars, filling them about 75%
- Store in a cool, dark place
- Open jars daily for the first week to release moisture and exchange air
- Cure for 2-4 weeks for optimal flavor and potency
Following these practices will help preserve the Cherry Gorilla strain’s unique terpene profile, which contributes to its sweet cherry and diesel flavors. Proper curing also enhances the smooth smoking experience and maintains the strain’s potent effects, which can reach THC levels of up to 26.66%.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cultivation
Cherry Gorilla strain can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, each method offering distinct advantages and challenges. Here’s a comparison of indoor versus outdoor cultivation for this strain:
| Aspect | Indoor Cultivation | Outdoor Cultivation |
|---|---|---|
| Environment Control | High control over temperature, humidity, and light | Subject to natural climate variations |
| Yield Potential | Moderate yields, typically 8-24 ounces per square meter | Potentially higher yields, up to 64 ounces per plant |
| Cost | Higher initial setup and ongoing energy costs | Lower overall costs, but may require pest management expenses |
| Space Requirements | Limited by available indoor space | Can accommodate larger plants and more extensive growth |
| Flowering Time | Consistent 8-9 week flowering period | Harvest around late September to early October |
| Quality Control | Easier to maintain consistent quality | May produce more robust flavors due to natural terroir |
| Pest Management | Reduced risk of pests, easier to control | Higher risk of pests and diseases, requires vigilant monitoring |
Indoor cultivation offers precise control over growing conditions, allowing for year-round production and consistent quality. However, it comes with higher setup and energy costs. Outdoor growing leverages natural sunlight and can potentially yield larger harvests, but is more susceptible to weather fluctuations and pests. The choice between indoor and outdoor cultivation ultimately depends on the grower’s resources, climate, and specific goals for their Cherry Gorilla crop.
Obtaining Cherry Gorilla Genetics
Cherry Gorilla seeds and clones are available from several reputable sources, but it’s important to choose high-quality genetics for the best results. Here’s a guide to obtaining Cherry Gorilla genetics:
- Reputable sources for Cherry Gorilla seeds and clones:
- In House Genetics (original breeder)
- Seed banks carrying In House Genetics strains
- Licensed dispensaries in legal cannabis states
- Tips for selecting high-quality genetics:
- Verify the breeder’s reputation and history
- Look for detailed strain information and genetic lineage
- Check for customer reviews and grow reports
- Ensure the seller provides germination guarantees
- Consider feminized seeds for easier cultivation
Cherry Gorilla is available as both seeds and clones, with seeds being more widely accessible. When purchasing, prioritize sources that provide comprehensive strain information and have a track record of customer satisfaction. Remember that the strain’s potency, with THC levels ranging from 16-21%, makes it important to choose genetics from reliable sources to ensure you get the desired traits and effects.
Pest and Disease Management
Cherry Gorilla, like other cannabis strains, can be susceptible to various pests and diseases during cultivation. Here’s an overview of common issues and management strategies:
- Common pests affecting Cherry Gorilla:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Fruit leafrollers
- Root weevils
- Spotted wing drosophila
- Common diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Brown rot
- Verticillium wilt
- Cherry rasp leaf virus
- Prevention and management strategies:
- Regular monitoring: Inspect plants frequently for signs of infestation or disease
- Proper ventilation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth
- Organic pesticides: Use neem oil or insecticidal soaps for pest control
- Pruning: Remove infected parts of the plant to prevent spread
- Soil management: Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering
- Companion planting: Grow pest-repelling plants nearby
- Biological controls: Introduce beneficial insects to combat pests
Early detection and prompt action are crucial in managing pests and diseases in Cherry Gorilla plants. Maintaining optimal growing conditions, including proper temperature and humidity levels, can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and infections.
Yield Potential
Cherry Gorilla is known for its generous yields, making it an attractive option for both indoor and outdoor growers. Here’s a breakdown of typical yield expectations for this strain:
- Indoor yields:
- Average: 8-24 ounces (227-680 grams) per square meter
- Some reports suggest up to 450-500 grams per square meter under optimal conditions
- Outdoor yields:
- Average: 16-64 ounces (450-1814 grams) per plant
- Potential for higher yields in ideal outdoor environments
- Factors affecting yield:
- Growing conditions (light, temperature, humidity)
- Cultivation techniques (training, pruning)
- Nutrient management
- Plant health and pest control
- Genetics and phenotype expression
Cherry Gorilla responds well to Sea of Green (SOG) and Screen of Green (SCROG) methods, which can help maximize yields in limited spaces. The strain’s medium to tall height and dense bud structure contribute to its impressive yield potential. However, actual yields may vary depending on the grower’s experience and the specific growing environment.
User Reviews and Experiences
Cherry Gorilla has garnered significant attention from cannabis enthusiasts, with users and growers sharing their experiences across various platforms. Here’s a summary of user reviews and testimonials:
| Aspect | User Feedback |
|---|---|
| Effects | “Incredible, balanced high. Euphoria and happiness soak your existence without knocking you out.” |
| Potency | “Delicious and very high in TH |
Users consistently praise Cherry Gorilla for its potent effects, balanced high, and unique flavor profile. Growers report good yields and manageable cultivation, particularly when using advanced growing techniques. The strain’s reported THC content of 17-26.66% contributes to its strong effects, making it popular among experienced users seeking powerful relief from conditions like chronic pain and depression.
Comparison with Other Strains
Cherry Gorilla shares similarities with its parent strains, Gorilla Glue #4 and Black Cherry Pie, but offers a unique combination of effects and flavors. Here’s a comparison of Cherry Gorilla with these and other popular strains:
| Aspect | Cherry Gorilla | Gorilla Glue #4 | Black Cherry Pie | Cherry Pie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effects | Balanced, euphoric, relaxing | Heavy-handed, euphoric | Relaxing, uplifting | Relaxing, happy |
| THC Content | 17-26.66% | 18-25% | 20-25% | 16-24% |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet cherry, diesel, earthy | Earthy, pine, chemical | Sweet, cherry, earthy | Sweet, cherry, earthy |
| Cultivation Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Easy to moderate |
| Flowering Time | 8-9 weeks | 8-9 weeks | 8-9 weeks | 7-9 weeks |
Cherry Gorilla inherits the potent effects of Gorilla Glue #4 but balances them with the sweet flavors of Black Cherry Pie. It offers a more nuanced experience compared to Gorilla Glue #4, with a smoother onset of effects. While sharing some flavor characteristics with Cherry Pie, Cherry Gorilla typically has a higher THC content and more complex terpene profile.
Legal Status and Availability
Cherry Gorilla’s legal status and availability vary significantly depending on regional cannabis laws. Here’s an overview of its legal standing and accessibility in different areas:
- Legal status:
- United States: Legal in states with recreational or medical cannabis programs
- Canada: Legal for both medical and recreational use nationwide
- Europe: Varies by country, legal in some nations for medical use
- Most other countries: Illegal or restricted to medical use only
- Availability:
- Dispensaries: Widely available in legal U.S. states and Canadian provinces
- Online: Seeds can be purchased from some seed banks, subject to local laws
- Medical programs: Accessible in some regions with medical cannabis laws
It’s important to note that cannabis laws are complex and constantly evolving. In the United States, Cherry Gorilla is available in states like Illinois, where it can be found in dispensaries such as Curaleaf. However, its legality and availability can vary even within countries with legal cannabis markets. Always check local laws and regulations before attempting to purchase or cultivate Cherry Gorilla or any cannabis strain.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cherry Gorilla has gained significant popularity in cannabis culture, appearing in various media outlets and garnering attention from influencers and celebrities. Here’s an overview of its presence and influence in popular culture:
- Media presence:
- Featured in cannabis magazines and online publications
- Reviewed on popular cannabis websites and forums
- Discussed in podcasts and YouTube channels dedicated to cannabis strains
- Social media influence:
- Frequently mentioned and reviewed by cannabis influencers on Instagram and Twitter
- Popular hashtag on social media platforms
- Subject of numerous user-generated content, including grow diaries and strain reviews
- Celebrity endorsements:
- Mentioned by some hip-hop artists in lyrics
- Endorsed by cannabis-friendly celebrities on social media
- Cannabis events:
- Featured in cannabis cup competitions
- Showcased at cannabis expos and trade shows
The strain’s unique flavor profile and balanced effects have contributed to its popularity among cannabis enthusiasts. Its high THC content, ranging from 17% to 26.66%, has made it a favorite among those seeking potent strains. The Cherry Gorilla strain’s presence in popular culture has helped solidify its status as a sought-after hybrid in the cannabis community.
