Strains That Don’t Exist Anymore: A Glimpse into Cannabis History

Cannabis, like any living plant, evolves over time. New strains are bred, while others fade into obscurity. Some of these lost strains were once popular and influential but, for various reasons, have disappeared from the scene. Let’s take a look at a few cannabis strains that, sadly, don’t exist anymore—or at least not in their original form. Roadkill Skunk If you were around the cannabis scene in the 80s or 90s, you might remember Roadkill Skunk. This strain was famous for its incredibly pungent, skunky aroma that was impossible to hide. It’s said that Roadkill Skunk was a true legend, with a smell that could clear a room. However, as cannabis cultivation moved toward more discreet strains with sweeter, fruitier aromas, Roadkill Skunk slowly disappeared. Today, while some breeders claim to have versions of this skunk, the original is considered lost. G13 G13 is more myth than fact at this point, but it’s a strain that has captured the imagination of cannabis enthusiasts for decades. Legend has it that G13 was developed by the U.S. government in the 1970s as part of a secret project. The strain was allegedly smuggled out of the lab and became the foundation for many hybrids. While you might find strains claiming to be descendants of G13, the original pure G13 is no longer around—if it ever truly existed. Original Haze Original Haze was one of the pioneering sativa strains of the 1970s, known for its uplifting and energizing effects. It was a pure sativa with a long flowering time, which made it challenging to cultivate, especially for commercial growers. Over time, as growers and consumers shifted towards quicker, more manageable hybrids, Original Haze became a rarity. While some modern strains claim Haze lineage, the pure, original version has largely vanished from the market. Matanuska Thunder Fuck (MTF) Matanuska Thunder Fuck, also known as Alaskan Thunder Fuck, hails from the Matanuska Valley in Alaska. It was known for its strong, earthy flavor and powerful effects. However, the original strain, as it was known in the 70s and 80s, has become nearly impossible to find. Modern versions exist, but they are often hybrids or reinterpretations of the original, rather than a true preservation. Neville’s Haze Named after legendary breeder Neville Schoenmakers, Neville’s Haze was a near-pure sativa that gained popularity in the 1980s. It was a cross of Haze and Northern Lights, known for its intense cerebral high and long flowering period. Due to its difficulty in cultivation, particularly its long grow time, Neville’s Haze became less popular over the years, and finding the original strain today is next to impossible. What Happened to These Strains? Many factors contribute to the disappearance of cannabis strains. Market demand, cultivation challenges, and the natural evolution of plant breeding all play a role. As growers focus on developing new strains that are easier to grow, have shorter flowering times, or cater to current market tastes, older strains can fall by the wayside. However, these lost strains continue to influence modern cannabis. Their genetics live on in hybrids, and their legendary reputations ensure that they won’t be forgotten, even if the original plants are no longer available. Cannabis is always evolving, with new strains constantly being created. While we may have lost some classic strains along the way, their legacy endures in the countless hybrids and new varieties we enjoy today.