Written by Ad OpsOrigins and Breeding History
Auto Amnesia Gold emerges from Spain’s Pyramid Seeds, a breeder known for turning elite photoperiod genetics into robust, accessible autos. The original Amnesia Gold line at Pyramid Seeds draws on classic Haze heritage, then the team stabilized an autoflowering version by integrating a vigorous ruderalis donor. According to Pyramid Seeds’ own product guidance, this auto was designed to taste superbly and grow fast, with an emphasis on ease-of-cultivation for less experienced growers. In practical terms, that translates into a short seed-to-harvest calendar with minimal training required.
The project’s core aim was to capture the iconic “Amnesia” citrus-incense profile while delivering a day-neutral plant that finishes reliably across latitudes. Breeding autos generally takes 4–6 filial generations to stabilize uniform flowering time and chemotype, and Pyramid’s catalog release suggests a high level of consistency across phenotypes. Notably, for autos, the breeder prioritized strong early root growth and an open internodal structure so plants don’t stall after the third week. This is critical because autos transition to flower on a genetic clock rather than photoperiod.
Market data from European seed distributors indicates that Auto Amnesia Gold is among Pyramid’s more popular sativa-leaning autos, often recommended for speed and vigor. Anecdotal grow reports track seed-to-harvest windows of 70–80 days indoors, which aligns with the breeder’s quick-turn marketing. The combination of fast finishing and a familiar Haze-forward flavor helped establish this cultivar in regions with brief summers. As a result, the auto variant developed a reputation as a “set-and-forget” sativa for small tents and balconies.
The strain’s release also coincided with the broader second wave of autos that arrived after 2015, when breeders began consistently delivering THC levels above 15% in day-neutral plants. This context matters because earlier autos often sacrificed potency for speed, but refined ruderalis work at houses like Pyramid has narrowed that gap. Auto Amnesia Gold typifies the new standard, offering sativa expression with notable resin density. That evolution explains why it’s frequently positioned as an entry point for growers moving from photoperiod to autoflowering projects.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
Auto Amnesia Gold’s ancestry is a composite of ruderalis, indica, and sativa, with the sensory and morphological traits clearly dominated by the sativa side. In practice, this means taller internodes, narrower leaflets, and a terpene signature heavy in terpinolene, ocimene, and limonene. The ruderalis component contributes the day-neutral flowering trait and accelerates the life cycle. Meanwhile, a minor indica fraction likely adds density to the floral clusters and improves calyx-to-leaf ratio.
Pyramid Seeds’ photoperiod Amnesia Gold is known to lean heavily on Haze-derived parents, and the auto version preserves that heady profile while tempering plant height. The selection emphasis fell on stability of autoflower timing, flavor continuity, and structural integrity under light feeding. Genetic stability in autos is often measured by uniform onset of flower between days 21–28 from sprout, and this cultivar generally aligns with that window. As a result, it tends to be predictable under varied light cycles like 18/6 or 20/4.
From an inheritance perspective, the sativa side transmits bright citrus and incense notes and an uplifting mental effect. The ruderalis input carries earlier expression of pistils and faster preflower development, reducing the total lifecycle by roughly 20–30% versus its photoperiod counterparts. The indica trace improves resin head size and trichome coverage, supporting robust extraction yields for a sativa-leaning plant. Together, these inputs produce a hybrid that feels sativa in effect but grows with the simplicity of an auto.
Because autos flower regardless of day length, the line had to be stabilized against light stress hermaphroditism and nutrient sensitivity. Breeding autos for resilience typically increases successful harvest rates for novice growers by 10–15% compared to more finicky photoperiod sativas. In this case, the inheritance strategy appears to have worked, as many grow logs report low intersex tendencies when plants are kept within standard environmental ranges. That trait, paired with rapid finish, underpins Auto Amnesia Gold’s popularity among first-time indoor gardeners.
Plant Morphology and Visual Appearance
Auto Amnesia Gold typically forms a central cola with multiple side branches that rise to near-canopy height, giving it a symmetrical “chandelier” silhouette. Internode spacing is moderate for a sativa-leaning auto, keeping overall height manageable in tents. Mature plants often stand 70–120 cm indoors when grown in 11–18 L containers under 18–20 hours of light. Outdoors, well-fed specimens can reach 90–130 cm in warm, sunny climates.
Leaves are mid-green to lime-green, with narrow serrations typical of Haze-influenced lines. As flowers stack, calyces swell more than leaves, leading to decent calyx-to-leaf ratios that simplify trimming. Pistils start white and ripen to orange and burnished copper in late flower. Trichome coverage is high for an auto, with dense capitate-stalked glands dusting both bracts and sugar leaves.
Buds are elongated and slightly spear-shaped, with occasional foxtailing under high PPFD or elevated canopy temperatures. The structure is firm without becoming rock-hard, which helps airflow and reduces mold risk in dense canopies. Resin production is visible by week 6 from seed, with a notable bloom of trichomes around weeks 7–9. This early resin onset is advantageous for hash makers seeking a quick wash cycle.
By harvest, the canopy often exudes a bright citrus-pine sheen, hinting at terpinolene dominance. In jars, flowers maintain their shape well and resist collapsing when cured properly at 55–60% RH. After a 4–6 week cure, the green hue deepens and the pistils darken, enhancing bag appeal. Overall, the plant presents like a modern auto: compact, productive, and visibly resinous.
Aroma and Bouquet
The aromatic profile opens with zesty lemon and sweet tangerine, anchored by a classic Haze incense that reads as herbal and woody. Secondary notes include green apple skin, fresh pine tips, and a faint white-pepper snap from beta-caryophyllene. When broken apart, buds release a floral lift that suggests linalool and ocimene interplay. The total effect is clean, bright, and unmistakably sativa-leaning.
During late flower, the bouquet intensifies, and terpenes volatilize readily under warm lights. Growers often report that a carbon filter becomes essential from week 7 onward in small tents. Quantitatively, well-grown autos can carry 1.5–3.5% total terpene content by dry weight, and Auto Amnesia Gold is frequently at the upper midrange of that band. The odor lingers on grinders and glass for hours, a hallmark of terpinolene-rich cultivars.
Cured flowers express deeper incense and dried citrus peel, losing some of the bright top notes while gaining complexity. Over a 6–8 week cure, the aroma rounds into a pleasant balance between citrus candy and herbal wood. In vapor, the bouquet becomes more nuanced, resembling lemon verbena, juniper, and faint tea leaf. Overall, the nose is assertive but refined, with minimal dank or skunky undertones.
Flavor and Palate
On the inhale, expect a sweet lemon-lime splash with hints of Valencia orange and pine resin. Mid-palate, a dry herbal incense emerges, reminiscent of classic Haze lines from the 1990s. The exhale is crisp and slightly peppery, leaving a clean citrus-zest finish on the tongue. Vaporization at 180–190°C highlights the citrus and floral fractions especially well.
Compared to diesel or kush profiles, Auto Amnesia Gold is brighter and less earthy, making it approachable for daytime use. The terpene balance keeps the palate from becoming cloying, with limonene and terpinolene carrying most of the sweetness and lift. Savory accents from caryophyllene and humulene add structure without masking the citrus. As the bowl progresses, a light green-tea note appears, especially noticeable in convection vaporizers.
Edibles made with this cultivar retain citrus-forward aromatics if decarbed at lower temperatures (105–115°C for 35–45 minutes). Tinctures capture the spice and wood tones particularly well, though some volatile top notes can fade over time. With proper curing, flavor stability is strong for at least 3–4 months in airtight jars kept below 20°C. Overall, the taste profile is a standout for an auto, aligning with Pyramid Seeds’ emphasis on superb flavor.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Auto Amnesia Gold typically registers THC in the mid-teens to upper-teens, with many lab reports clustering around 15–19% THC by weight. CBD expression is low, commonly 0.1–0.5%, consistent with sativa-leaning autos bred for psychoactivity. Minor cannabinoids like CBG may appear between 0.1–0.8%, depending on phenotype and growing conditions. THCV can be detectable in trace amounts, but it is not a dominant component in most cuts.
Potency in autos can vary with light intensity, nutrient balance, and harvest timing. Harvesting at peak cloudy trichomes with 5–10% amber often yields the most energetic psychotropic profile. Delaying harvest to 10–20% amber may slightly shift the experience toward calm and body presence. Proper drying and curing can preserve up to 20–30% more terpene content than rapid-dried samples, which in turn modulates perceived potency through the entourage effect.
In extracts, this cultivar can deliver potent results despite moderate THC numbers because of its high monoterpene content. Hydrocarbon extracts often clock total cannabinoids at 60–75% with 5–10% terpenes, maintaining that lemon-incense signature. Rosin yields from well-grown flowers commonly land in the 15–20% range by weight, reflecting good resin density for an auto. Such metrics make it appealing to home hashmakers who value flavor alongside effect.
For inhalation, onset typically occurs within 2–5 minutes, plateauing around the 20–30 minute mark. The overall duration is 2–4 hours depending on tolerance and dose. Consumers with low tolerance should begin with small doses due to the sativa-leaning mental lift, which can feel more intense than the raw THC number implies. As always, individual responses vary, and set and setting contribute significantly to perceived potency.
Terpene Profile and Aromatic Chemistry
Auto Amnesia Gold trends terpinolene-dominant, a chemotype common to Amnesia/Haze families. Typical terpene distributions include terpinolene (0.5–1.5%), beta-myrcene (0.2–0.8%), beta-caryophyllene (0.2–0.6%), limonene (0.2–0.7%), and ocimene (0.1–0.5%) by dry weight. Secondary contributors may include humulene (0.05–0.3%), linalool (0.05–0.2%), and pinene isomers in trace to moderate levels. Total terpenes often aggregate to 1.5–3.5%, depending on cultivation and cure.
Terpinolene is linked with fruity-citrus, floral, and piney notes and is often associated with an energetic headspace. Beta-myrcene can add a soft, musky sweetness that rounds sharp citrus edges, especially noticeable after a month of curing. Beta-caryophyllene brings pepper-spice and interacts with CB2 receptors, which some consumers find contributes to body calm. Limonene brightens the profile with lemon/orange facets and is frequently reported to uplift mood.
Ocimene contributes the crisp, green, and slightly sweet herbal tones that read as “fresh.” Humulene adds woody-bitter nuance, complementing the incense character typical of Haze lines. Minor linalool can lend a lavender-like floral flutter that becomes more noticeable at lower vaporization temperatures. Together, this mix explains the cultivar’s clean, sparkling aroma and its focus-forward clarity.
Environmental factors strongly influence terpene expression. Cooler late-flower nights (18–20°C) and moderate RH (50–55%) can preserve monoterpenes that would otherwise volatilize. Gentle dry and a long cure preserve top notes; aggressive drying at high temperatures can reduce total terpenes by 25–40% compared to slow-curing methods. As always, genetics set the ceiling, but post-harvest handling determines how much of that ceiling you actually taste and feel.
Experiential Effects and Consumer Report
Users typically describe a fast-onset, heady uplift that enhances focus, creativity, and conversational flow. The mental energy arrives clean and linear, avoiding the scattered buzz that some pure Hazes can produce. Body sensation is present but secondary, usually a light, limber relaxation rather than couchlock. The mood tone trends optimistic, making it a common pick for daytime or early evening use.
At modest doses, the effect profile favors tasks requiring ideation, music appreciation, or outdoor activities. Some users report improved task switching and reduced mental fatigue over 60–120 minutes, consistent with terpinolene-forward sativas. Higher doses can magnify sensory input and produce a more immersive, introspective headspace. For many, the sweet spot lies in 1–3 inhalations of a mid-THC flower or 2–4 mg THC via vapor.
Common side effects include dry mouth (reported in 30–50% of users) and dry eyes (15–30%), especially in low-humidity environments. Transient anxiety or acceleration can occur in 5–15% of sensitive users at high doses, a known pattern with stimulating profiles. Paranoia is uncommon at moderate doses but can appear when combining with caffeine or in novel settings. Hydration, pacing, and comfortable surroundings reduce these risks substantially.
The overall arc lasts 2–4 hours for inhalation, with a clean landing and minimal residual grogginess. Tolerance can build with daily use, so rotating strains or incorporating 24–48 hour breaks maintains clarity. Many report that the cultivar pairs well with bright light, music, and light aerobic activity. As always, start low and go slow until you understand your personal response.
Potential Medical Applications
While not a substitute for medical advice, Auto Amnesia Gold’s chemistry suggests potential in several symptom domains. The limonene-terpinolene-caryophyllene triad is often associated with mood elevation, light analgesia, and perceived stress reduction. Observational surveys of medical cannabis users have noted 40–70% self-reported improvements in anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms after inhalation of sativa-leaning chemovars, though results vary widely. Importantly, the stimulating edge means this strain may not suit patients prone to agitation.
For fatigue and low motivation, daytime sativa-leaning profiles can provide subjective energy and focus. Some users with attention challenges report improved engagement windows of 60–120 minutes after modest dosing. Terpinolene-dominant flowers have been anecdotally linked with task initiation benefits, though controlled data remain limited. Caffeine-sensitive individuals may prefer this cultivar alone without additional stimulants.
Pain relief potential is moderate, with beta-caryophyllene contributing to perceived reduction in inflammatory discomfort. Survey data in chronic pain cohorts often show 30–50% reductions in pain scores following inhaled THC-dominant cannabis, particularly when combined with rest and heat. This strain’s clear-headedness may make it preferable for daytime pain management compared with sedating indica profiles. However, severe neuropathic pain may require higher cannabinoid doses or different ratios.
For migraines and tension headaches, citrus-incense sativas are a mixed bag. Some patients report rapid relief if taken at prodrome, while others experience exacerbation, possibly due to vasodilatory or sensory stimulation effects. Starting with 1–2 small inhalations and tracking outcomes over several episodes can clarify personal efficacy. Hydration and a calm environment improve tolerability.
Appetite stimulation at moderate levels is subtle but present, useful for those with mild anorexia or nausea. CBD content is low, so individuals seeking anticonvulsant effects or THC moderation may need to blend with CBD flower or oil. As always, consult a qualified clinician for individualized guidance, especially if you have cardiovascular, psychiatric, or seizure histories. Keep dosing conservative until you establish a reliable response pattern.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Auto Amnesia Gold was built for speed and simplicity, aligning with Pyramid Seeds’ positioning as a superb-tasting sativa that even less experienced growers can run successfully. Expect a seed-to-harvest window around 70–80 days indoors, sometimes as fast as 65–75 days in optimized environments. Indoors, target 350–500 g/m² in dialed setups under high-efficiency LEDs, with single plants yielding 40–120 g depending on container size and light. Outdoors, 50–150 g/plant is typical in full sun with adequate root volume.
Germination and seedling care: Aim for 24–26°C and 95–100% RH during germination, using pre-moistened starter plugs or lightly fertilized media at EC 0.3–0.5. Most quality seeds demonstrate 90–95% germination within 48–72 hours under stable conditions. Because autos dislike transplant shock, plant directly into the final container whenever possible. If using a transplant, move seedlings by day 7–10 before the taproot spirals.
Medium and containers: Autos appreciate airy substrates that avoid waterlogging. In soil, use a light mix with 20–30% perlite; in coco, blend 10–20% perlite for added oxygenation. Final containers of 11–18 L balance plant size and speed; fabric pots improve root zone oxygen and help prevent overwatering. Maintain pH at 6.2–6.8 for soil and 5.8–6.2 for coco/hydro.
Lighting: Autos perform well under 18/6 to 20/4 schedules. Daily light integral targets of 35–45 mol/m²/day in early growth and 45–55 mol/m²/day in flower are effective for high-quality yields. Translate that to PPFD of roughly 600–800 in early growth and 900–1,100 in mid-flower when using 18–20 hours of light. Keep LED-to-canopy distance per manufacturer specs to prevent foxtailing and terpene loss.
Environment and VPD: Day temperatures of 24–27°C and night 20–22°C optimize enzyme activity and terpene retention. Maintain VPD around 0.9–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in flower. Relative humidity should land near 60–65% early, dropping to 50–55% mid-flower and 45–50% late flower to discourage botrytis. Adequate airflow with 0.3–0.5 m/s canopy velocity reduces microclimates.
Nutrition: Start with a mild feed and ramp gently—autos penalize overfeeding more than photoperiods. In coco/hydro, begin around EC 0.8–1.0 in early veg, 1.2–1.5 preflower, and 1.5–1.8 during peak bloom. Maintain a Ca:Mg ratio near 2:1 and ensure steady magnesium availability, as sativa-leaning plants often show Mg hunger under strong LED. Taper nitrogen from week 5 to avoid leafy buds and support terpene development.
Irrigation: Water to 10–15% runoff in coco and avoid prolonged saturation in soil. Early on, use smaller volumes more frequently to encourage root expansion; increase volume as the plant establishes. Automated drip with 1–4 daily events can stabilize EC and moisture in coco, enhancing consistency. Always let the top layer slightly dry between events to maintain oxygen at the root zone.
Training and canopy management: Favor low-stress training (LST) and leaf tucking, beginning as early as day 15–20. Avoid topping after day 21, as autos have limited veg windows and can stall. A single, gentle topping at the 3rd or 4th node before day 18 can work for experienced growers seeking uniform canopies. Defoliate conservatively—remove only leaves that block multiple flower sites, and never more than 10–15% of foliage at once.
CO2 enrichment: If your PPFD exceeds 900 and environmental control is tight, enriching to 900–1,200 ppm CO2 can add 10–20% yield. Keep temperatures on the higher side of the recommended range to maximize carboxylation efficiency. Do not add CO2 without sufficient light and nutrition, or gains will be minimal. Monitor leaf temperature with an IR thermometer to avoid overshooting.
Pest and disease management: Implement integrated pest management (IPM) from day one. Sticky cards, weekly leaf inspections, and good sanitation prevent population spikes of fungus gnats, spider mites, and thrips. For biological control, consider Hypoaspis (Stratiolaelaps) for soil pests and Neoseiulus californicus for mites. Maintain lower late-flower humidity to limit botrytis, especially in dense colas.
Outdoor strategy: Plant after the last frost when nights stay above 12–13°C. Choose the sunniest, windiest spot to maximize DLI and reduce fungal pressure. In warm climates with long days, expect 70–80 day finishes; in cooler climates, plan for the longer end of the window. Guerrilla grows benefit from 30–50 L containers or amended beds to buffer drought and nutrient swings.
Harvest timing: Start scouting trichomes by day 60 from sprout. For an energetic profile, harvest at mostly cloudy with 5–10% amber; for a slightly rounder effect, push to 10–20% amber. Pistils alone are not reliable—use a jeweler’s loupe at 60x magnification. Expect the most intense aroma in the final 10 days, so keep filters fresh.
Drying and curing: Dry 10–14 days at 18–20°C and 55–60% RH with gentle airflow but no direct breeze on flowers. Target a 10–12% moisture content, translating to a stem snap that’s audible but not brittle. Cure in airtight jars, burping daily for the first week, then weekly as RH stabilizes at 58–62%. A 4–8 week cure enhances citrus-incense complexity and smoothness.
Yield optimization: Auto Amnesia Gold generally delivers 350–500 g/m² indoors under 600–900 µmol/m²/s average PPFD, with dialed grows occasionally surpassing 500 g/m². Per-plant yields of 80–120 g are attainable in 15–18 L pots with 18/6 or 20/4 lighting. Outdoors in full sun, 80–150 g/plant is realistic with quality soil and irrigation. These figures assume healthy plants, stable environments, and correct harvest timing.
Common pitfalls: Overfeeding nitrogen past week 5 leads to leafy flowers and muted terpenes. Excessive defoliation before the stretch can stunt autos and reduce final yield by 10–25%. Inadequate airflow raises botrytis risk in the final weeks, especially in humid regions. Finally, delayed harvest beyond 20–25% amber can flatten the energetic profile that makes this cultivar special.
Why Auto Amnesia Gold suits new growers: The cultivar’s fast, day-neutral flowering reduces scheduling complexity and risk of light leaks. Its forgiving nutrient needs and compact stature simplify tent management. The breeder’s emphasis on vigor means plants recover from minor errors faster than more delicate sativas. In short, it aligns with Pyramid Seeds’ claim of fast growth and excellent taste while remaining accessible to novices.
