Overview and Identity of Amnesia (Zoo Seeds)
Amnesia by Zoo Seeds is a mostly sativa cultivar built from the storied Haze family, tailored for modern growers and consumers who want bright, energetic effects with classic European flavor. The Zoo Seeds release preserves the cerebral snap and citrus-herbal bouquet that made Amnesia a coffee shop staple, while tightening up structure and potency for today’s market. In community reports and retailer listings, Amnesia lines consistently show high THC with minimal CBD, and Zoo’s expression keeps that profile front and center.
Across verified lab results for Amnesia-family flower in legal markets, total THC commonly falls in the 18–25% range, with outliers touching 26% when expertly grown and cured. CBD almost always remains at trace levels, typically 0–1%, underscoring the strain’s psychoactive-forward character. These numbers align with public summaries for Amnesia and Amnesia Haze, which are frequently described as high THC/low CBD phenotypes on consumer platforms.
Consumers usually describe Amnesia’s effects as uplifting, creative, and euphoric, and these themes are echoed in data-driven summaries from major strain databases. Leafly lists positive effects like giggly, euphoric, and talkative for Amnesia Haze and highlights uplifting, creative mood for Amnesia, indicating the broader family’s consistent experiential arc. Those same sources also caution about potential negatives like dry mouth, dizziness, and occasional paranoia—typical for potent, sativa-leaning chemovars.
History and Cultural Impact
The Amnesia name carries strong roots in the Dutch coffee shop era of the late 1990s and early 2000s, when long-flowering sativas found a devoted audience among daytime consumers. While multiple breeders and seed houses have released their own iterations over the years, Zoo Seeds’ Amnesia fits squarely within this lineage, emphasizing the brisk, lucid energy that made the original name iconic. As the European market matured, Amnesia evolved from boutique novelty to a flagship sativa that helped define what an energizing, citrus-forward profile should feel and smell like.
Consumer-facing sources have long framed the Amnesia family as a standard-bearer for bright, euphoric effects. Leafly summarizes Amnesia as uplifting and creative—traits that helped it become a go-to for social settings, brainstorming sessions, and daytime productivity. The closely related Amnesia Haze is routinely characterized as giggly and talkative, descriptors that resonate with how coffee shop patrons recounted its social lubricating qualities for decades.
As legalization spread, the Amnesia archetype traveled well, crossing the Atlantic and finding new homes in North American gardens. Growers appreciated its vigor and branching, even if its Haze-heavy background demanded longer flowering windows and careful training. In today’s market, where high-THC sativas can be underrepresented, Amnesia remains a relevant counterpoint—proof that a well-executed sativa can compete on potency while delivering a distinctly cerebral ride.
Genetic Lineage and Phenotype Spectrum
Zoo Seeds has not publicly disclosed the precise parental stock for its Amnesia, but agronomic traits align it with the Haze family backed by a stabilizing hybrid base. Historically, Amnesia lines have drawn from classic Haze, often with Skunk or Afghan influences used to improve structure, resin density, and yield. The result is a mostly sativa profile—commonly in the 70–80% sativa range—expressed through lanky internodes, a strong stretch at flip, and narrow, serrated leaves.
Phenotypically, Zoo’s Amnesia tends to segregate into two recognizable expressions. The first leans toward classic Haze morphology: elongated colas, a pronounced lemon-citrus nose, and a slightly airier calyx stack that nevertheless finishes with abundant, sticky resin. The second expression is slightly more compact, with denser flowers that pack more earthy-herbal elements beneath the citrus, suggesting stabilizing touches from hybrid forebears.
From a chemotype perspective, lab data across the Amnesia family show high THC and low CBD as a consistent trait, with total terpene content commonly in the 1.5–3.5% range when dialed in. Terpinolene, limonene, and myrcene are frequent anchors in Haze-line bouquets, and Zoo’s cut typically leans citrus-forward with herbal and cedar undertones. These compound patterns explain much of the reported uplift, as terpinolene- and limonene-forward chemovars often correlate with stimulating, mood-elevating experiences.
Appearance and Morphology
Amnesia from Zoo Seeds presents as a medium-tall plant with pronounced apical dominance if left untrained. The leaves are narrow and vibrant green, reflecting its sativa heritage, with petioles that lengthen noticeably during preflower stretch. Internodes can be moderate to long, creating ample room for light to penetrate once the canopy is properly coached with low-stress training or a screen.
At maturity, flowers form in elongated, tapering spears that stack along lateral branches, creating the characteristic “spear cola” look associated with Hazes. Calyxes are medium-sized and swirl into foxtail-like tips late in flower, especially under high light density or heat. Trichome coverage is generous, often presenting as a frosty sheen that stands out against light lime bracts and vivid orange to tangerine pistils.
Well-grown examples have a distinctive bag appeal that blends classic sativa texture with modern resin density. Unlike chunky indica hybrids, these buds are a touch more aerodynamic, yet still snap crisply when cured to 60–62% relative humidity. When broken apart, the bud structure reveals a glassy trichome mat that signals potency without the need for brute density.
Aroma and Bouquet
On first crack, Zoo Seeds’ Amnesia pushes a sharp citrus zest reminiscent of lemon peel and sweet orange, riding on a bright terpinolene backbone. Secondary notes typically include sweet herbs, fennel, and a cedar-like woodiness that becomes more pronounced as the bud breathes. A gentle floral-top note can appear in some phenos, hinting at lavender or jasmine-like sweetness under the citrus oil.
In a fresh grind, the bouquet pivots toward limonene-brightened lemon candy with a clean, resinous undertone. Many users pick up a sage or thyme character in the mid-palate of the aroma, a marker of myrcene and ocimene interplay with minor sesquiterpenes. The overall impression is exceptionally clean and uplifting, with the kind of high-voltage citrus nose that signals daytime energy before the first pull.
Compared with Amnesia Haze, which is often reported as intensely zesty and occasionally spice-forward, Zoo’s Amnesia holds a slightly more balanced top note. Aromatic intensity can be considerable, especially after cure, with many jars hitting full-room fill within seconds of opening. Total terpene content commonly measures north of 2% when grown and dried under optimal conditions, giving the aroma enough saturation to persist on grind and in the room for minutes.
Flavor and Inhalation Experience
The flavor follows the nose with laser precision: lemon-lime zest and sweet citrus are immediate on the inhale, transitioning into herbal and lightly woody tones on the exhale. In vapor, terpinolene’s piney brightness and limonene’s citrus snap remain prominent, while myrcene and ocimene contribute a soft, slightly sweet body. The aftertaste lingers as rind-like citrus with a hint of green tea and cedar.
Combustion introduces a gentle peppery tickle at higher temperatures, reflecting the presence of beta-caryophyllene and related sesquiterpenes. Terp preservation is best with low-and-slow curing and careful storage, as limonene in particular oxidizes readily under heat and air exposure. Balanced moisture at 60–62% RH preserves mouthfeel while avoiding harshness that can come from overly dry flowers.
When properly cured, the flavor arc remains consistent across the joint, with minimal souring or harsh resin burn at the tail. In side-by-side comparisons with Amnesia Haze jars, Zoo’s Amnesia typically strikes a slightly sweeter citrus tone with a calmer spice layer. That balance makes it a daily driver for consumers seeking bright taste without overwhelming pine-spice intensity.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency Metrics
Amnesia by Zoo Seeds maintains the family’s hallmark potency: high THC with very low CBD. Public cultivar summaries and seedbank listings for Amnesia-family strains routinely report THC above 20%, with a practical market range of 18–25% in verified flower. SeedSupreme and other retailers commonly categorize Amnesia Haze phenotypes as Very High THC (over 20%) with Low (0–1%) CBD, and this description reliably maps onto Zoo’s Amnesia performance.
Minor cannabinoids are typically present in trace to low amounts, with THCa dominating raw flower analytics. Depending on cultivation practices, CBGa may appear in the 0.2–0.8% range, occasionally higher in early harvests before full THCa conversion. CBC and THCV can register as non-detect to low tenths of a percent, though rare Haze-leaning selections can show a measurable THCV tick that may subtly alter headspace.
For consumers, these numbers forecast a decidedly psychoactive experience that is fast to the head and long in duration. Inhaled onset often occurs within 1–3 minutes, peaks at 15–30 minutes, and gradually tapers over 2–3 hours depending on dose and tolerance. Because CBD is low, the experience is less “rounded” than in balanced chemotypes, making set, setting, and pacing particularly important for new users.
Terpene Profile and Minor Aromatics
Haze-derived cultivars are frequently dominated by terpinolene, and Amnesia from Zoo Seeds is no exception. In third-party lab reports across the Amnesia and Amnesia Haze family, terpinolene often lands between 0.3–1.0% by weight, with limonene and myrcene commonly following in the 0.2–0.6% brackets. Total terpene content typically aggregates to 1.5–3.5% in well-grown flower, with standout gardens pushing above 4% under optimized environment and post-harvest handling.
Supporting terpenes frequently include beta-caryophyllene, ocimene, and alpha-pinene, each adding distinct facets to the bouquet and effect. Beta-caryophyllene contributes a peppery, woody warmth and binds to CB2 receptors, potentially modulating inflammation pathways in preclinical models. Ocimene lends green, sweet, and slightly floral tones, while pinene injects a crisp pine aroma that some users associate with mental clarity and focus.
Research into terpene contributions continues to evolve, but consumer-facing resources like Leafly consistently link Haze-family terpene patterns with uplifting, euphoric experiences. The interplay of terpinolene and limonene is particularly associated with bright mood and creative spark, which aligns with the longstanding reputation of Amnesia lines. As with cannabinoids, precise terpene ratios depend on genetics, environment, nutrition, and cure; growers who dry slow and cold can preserve more volatile monoterpenes and improve the strain’s signature citrus pop.
Experiential Effects and Use Patterns
Anecdotal reports and platform summaries converge on a clear picture: Amnesia is spirited, euphoric, and socially engaging. Leafly’s entries for Amnesia and Amnesia Haze emphasize uplifting, creative, euphoric, giggly, and talkative effects—an arc that mirrors user narratives from the Dutch coffee shop era to today’s dispensaries. Many consumers find the headspace enhances conversation, brainstorming, and light outdoor activities.
At moderate doses, the onset is brisk and heady, with a buoyant mood lift and a sense of forward motion that avoids jitter in most experienced users. Visual crispness and audio brightening are common subjective notes, contributing to the “psychedelic” reputation some retailers attribute to Amnesia Haze family phenotypes. With higher doses, the intensity can spike quickly, leading to racing thoughts in sensitive individuals if set and setting are not managed.
Side effects track with its potency and low CBD balance. Leafly’s Amnesia Haze page flags paranoia, dry mouth, and dizziness as possible negatives, all of which can appear in Amnesia when dosing overshoots comfort. Hydration, paced inhalation, and a calm environment significantly reduce the likelihood of adverse experiences.
Potential Medical Uses and Safety
Consumer self-reports and platform summaries frequently connect Amnesia to mood support, creativity, and daytime motivation. Leafly’s overview of Amnesia highlights uplifting, creative, and euphoric qualities, aligning with users who reach for it during dips in motivation or low mood. While not a substitute for clinical treatment, these traits make it a candidate for individuals exploring cannabis as an adjunct for mood-related concerns under professional guidance.
The strain’s energizing nature can be useful for fatigue, situational stress, and task engagement when sedation is undesirable. Terpene contributions—particularly limonene—have been associated in preclinical literature with anxiolytic and mood-elevating properties, while terpinolene is linked to stimulating, clear-headed profiles in user data. That said, high-THC, low-CBD chemovars can be double-edged for anxiety: at moderate doses they may relieve tension, while at higher doses they can provoke restlessness or paranoia in some users.
Safety-wise, start low and go slow is sound advice, especially for new or anxiety-prone consumers. Dry mouth is common, so hydration helps; dizziness tends to be dose-related and may be mitigated by seated use or avoiding rapid, repeated inhalations. As always, individuals with medical conditions, those on prescription medications, or anyone pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Cultivation Guide: From Seed to Cure
Amnesia’s mostly sativa heritage rewards growers who manage height, stretch, and environmental stability. Indoors, a 4–6 week vegetative period under 18/6 or 20/4 light is sufficient for robust branching if you top early and train laterals. Expect a 1.5–2.5x stretch during the first three weeks after flip; planning for vertical clearance and trellising avoids late-stage headaches.
Lighting targets should be tuned to vigor and environment. In veg, 400–600 µmol/m²/s PPFD with a 22–24 hour DLI produces compact, turgid juveniles; in flower, aim for 800–1,100 µmol/m²/s PPFD with a 35–45 mol/m²/day DLI if CO2 is ambient. If supplementing CO2 to 1,000–1,200 ppm, you can push PPFD toward 1,200–1,400 µmol/m²/s provided temperature and VPD are balanced.
Temperature and humidity parameters shape terpene retention and botrytis resistance. Run 24–28°C daytime and 19–22°C nighttime in veg, easing to 24–26°C day and 18–21°C night in flower. Keep VPD around 0.9–1.1 kPa in veg and 1.1–1.4 kPa in mid-flower, finishing at 1.4–1.6 kPa during the last two weeks to tighten density and reduce mold risk.
Nutrition should be assertive but not excessive. Many Haze-leaning cuts dislike heavy nitrogen in early flower; keep EC near 1.2–1.5 in late veg, 1.6–1.8 through early bloom, and 1.8–2.0 in mid bloom if plants show robust uptake. In coco or hydro, target pH 5.7–6.0; in soil, 6.3–6.7. Monitor runoff to detect early salt build-up, and consider a light flush at week 4–5 of bloom if EC spikes.
Training is essential to unlock yield in limited vertical space. Topping at the 5th node followed by low-stress training and a single-layer SCROG creates an even canopy and efficient light distribution. Haze-family lines, including Amnesia Haze autos in grower reports, can grow very tall and rush toward the lights; tie-downs, supercropping on pliable stems, and early trellis placement prevent light burn.
Flowering time for Zoo Seeds’ Amnesia typically falls in the 65–80 day range indoors, depending on phenotype and grower preference for effect. Earlier harvests around day 65–70 emphasize citrus top notes and a more electric headspace; later harvests with 10–15% amber trichomes deepen body and slightly mellow the ride. Watch for late foxtailing under high PPFD; slight foxtails are cosmetic and can be tamed by dropping intensity 5–10% in the final 10 days.
Yields reward canopy management. Indoors under 600–1000 W-class LED fixtures, 450–650 g/m² is achievable, with dialed-in grows surpassing 700 g/m² in SCROG. Outdoors in warm, dry climates with long seasons, single plants can exceed 600–900 g with proper root volume and staking. Greenhouse runs benefit from light deprivation to align finishing with drier seasonal windows.
Integrated pest management is crucial due to the strain’s long flowering window. Maintain strong airflow, prune interior larf to reduce humidity pockets, and employ biological controls like predatory mites early. Powdery mildew pressure can spike in late veg; silica supplementation and stable VPD reduce risk, while sulfur burners should be discontinued well before flower set to protect terpenes.
Drying and curing make or break the profile. Aim for a 9–14 day dry at 16–20°C and 55–60% RH with gentle airflow, then cure in sealed containers burped to stabilize at 60–62% RH. Slow dry preserves limonene and terpinolene, yielding brighter aroma and smoother smoke than quick, warm dries that strip monoterpenes.
Harvest Timing, Curing, and Storage Best Practices
Trichome maturity is the most reliable harvest guide. For a classic Amnesia headspace—sparkling, social, and nimble—target mostly cloudy trichomes with 5–10% amber. For a touch more body and a calmer landing, let amber rise to 10–15%, but avoid pushing far beyond that window as it can mute the electric top end Amnesia is known for.
During the final 10–14 days, reduce nitrogen, modestly lower PPFD, and keep night temps a hair cooler than day to preserve color and volatile aromatics. Many growers report improved terpene intensity when day/night differentials remain 2–4°C and RH stays steady at 50–55%. Light deprivation during the last hour of the cycle before harvest has minimal impact compared to maintaining stable, cool and dry conditions throughout the finish.
After a slow, controlled dry, move to curing jars or food-grade containers and burp daily for the first 10–14 days. Measure internal RH; if it drifts over 65%, open the jar longer or use desiccant packs until stable. Stored at 15–18°C, 55–60% RH, and in the dark, properly cured cannabis can retain the majority of its terpene profile for months, though limonene and other monoterpenes decline steadily over time.
For long-term storage beyond three months, cold storage in vacuum-sealed, light-proof bags can slow oxidation, but beware of moisture migration and condensation. Avoid freezing fully cured flower unless carefully packaged and allowed to return to room temperature before opening to prevent trichome fracture and moisture shock. Label each batch with harvest date, phenotype notes, and environmental data to build a feedback loop for future runs.
Written by Ad Ops