Written by Ad OpsOrigins and Breeding History of Auto Assassin
Auto Assassin emerged during the second wave of European autoflower innovation in the late 2000s and early 2010s, when breeders began pushing beyond compact indica-leaning autos into faster, more expressive sativa profiles. Developed by GeneSeeds Bank, the project explicitly leveraged ruderalis genetics to lock in autoflowering while preserving the vertical drive, electric headspace, and aromatic complexity associated with sativa lines. This was a strategic departure from early autos that commonly traded vigor and terpenes for speed. The aim was to reach a full seed-to-harvest cycle under 12 weeks without flattening the nuanced, daytime-friendly effects that sativas are known for.
GeneSeeds Bank positioned Auto Assassin as a proof of concept that an auto could be both quick and characterful, not just convenient. Internal selection cycles focused on removing the “stall” phenotype—plants that hesitate at transition and finish with airy tops—while stabilizing uniform stretch and strong apical development. Breeders prioritized resin density on upper calyxes, a trait that had lagged behind in the first generation of autoflower lines. By the early releases, growers reported consistent top-heavy stacking and a marked increase in trichome coverage relative to earlier sativa-leaning autos.
While GeneSeeds Bank did not publicize an exact photoperiod parent list, the breeding notes and grow journals point to a sativa-dominant ethos expressed through long, slender leaflets, herb-citrus volatility, and a long-legged canopy structure. The ruderalis component was selected for reliability of transition rather than pure dwarfing, ensuring that the line would still display meaningful stretch under high-intensity lighting. Across multiple community runs, Auto Assassin’s stability improved with each generation, reflecting the general trend in autos where germination rates commonly exceed 90% and finish times cluster tightly around 70–85 days. These outcomes helped the cultivar find a steady audience of home growers seeking speed without sacrificing character.
Evidence of Auto Assassin’s influence is visible in third-party genealogy listings. SeedFinder’s Original Strains genealogy page, for example, catalogs breeding work that explicitly includes “M8 (Original Strains) x Auto Assassin (GeneSeeds Bank),” placing it alongside projects like Wild Thai Buddha as a parent contributor. This suggests Auto Assassin achieved enough reliability and distinctive aroma-effect identity to serve as a foundation block in subsequent crosses. Its presence in such pedigrees reflects its value to breeders seeking to inject autoflowering traits into sativa-forward frameworks without compromising aromatic lift.
Genetic Lineage and Breeding Strategy
Auto Assassin is a ruderalis/sativa hybrid, with ruderalis used primarily as a delivery system for the day-length–independent flowering trait. The sativa side shapes structure, terpene spectrum, and effect profile, while the ruderalis side curbs height enough to fit in tents and balconies. The result is a cultivar that typically finishes in 10–12 weeks from seed yet still stretches 1.5–2.0x after preflower, resembling a compact photoperiod sativa in silhouette. The line generally shows a high calyx-to-leaf ratio compared to early autos, facilitating easier trimming and improved airflow.
Breeding methodology likely revolved around recurrent selection of autos that initiated bloom consistently by day 20–25 under 18–20 hours of light, even in nutrient-rich environments. This is critical because high-nitrogen substrates and long photoperiods can delay flowering in unstable autos. Plants that met the timing gate but also displayed pronounced apical dominance and terpene intensity were retained, while “lazy” phenotypes were culled. Over generations, this strategy tightens harvest windows and reduces outliers that push into 95–100 days.
The sativa heritage is inferred from traits such as narrow leaves, citrus-herbal aromatics, and a head-forward effect reported by many growers. Relative to indica-dominant autos, Auto Assassin’s internodes are longer, averaging around 35–60 mm, which aligns with sativa morphology. The presence of terpinolene and limonene in many reports further supports sativa-leaning ancestry, as these terpenes frequently dominate in classic sativa chemotypes. The line’s name implies a clean, focused “strike” rather than a heavy sedative hit, which is consistent with user experiences.
Genealogical references reinforce the cultivar’s role as a donor for autoflower traits while preserving lift and aromatic complexity. External listings, including the Original Strains genealogy snapshot, indicate that breeders have turned to Auto Assassin to modernize or quicken their sativa projects. This paints Auto Assassin as a utility parent that adds speed and structure without extinguishing high-energy expression. For breeders, that balance is a rare commodity and a major reason the line has stayed relevant.
Appearance and Morphology
Auto Assassin presents as a medium-stature plant, typically finishing at 60–110 cm indoors when grown in 3–5 gallon containers under 18–20 hours of light. The canopy is columnar with a strong central cola and symmetrical satellite branches that can be coaxed outward with early low-stress training. Internodal spacing is moderate, averaging 3.5–6.0 cm, which aids airflow and reduces microclimates conducive to powdery mildew. Fan leaves are narrow and elongated, a hallmark of sativa influence.
During bloom, bracts stack in distinct spear-shaped clusters rather than bulbous, indica-style crowns. Calyx-to-leaf ratio is favorable, leading to less sugar leaf protrusion and easier post-harvest manicuring. Trichome coverage is heavy on upper bracts and sugar leaf tips, with gland heads becoming cloudy around days 60–70 from seed under stable conditions. Late ripening can produce faint foxtailing under high PPFD, a trait manageable with careful thermal control.
Coloration trends toward lime to mid-green foliage, with occasional magenta pistil tips in cooler night temperatures. Under optimized nutrition, you can expect vibrant white pistils in early bloom, gradually oxidizing to amber or tawny hues by late flower. Anthocyanin expression is not a marquee feature but may appear under temperature dips of 10–12°C between day and night during late bloom. Stems remain relatively flexible and benefit from light tie-downs to open the canopy.
By harvest, the main cola is typically the densest structure, while lower branches produce mid-grade, well-formed spears if adequately lit. In high-density SOGs, plants may remain single cola–dominant with uniform tops; in SCROG or LST setups, lateral yield improves notably. Final bud density is medium-firm, not rock-hard, with good resilience during drying. The finished visual impression is that of a tidy, sativa-leaning auto with well-proportioned tops and a shimmery resin coat.
Aroma and Bouquet
Auto Assassin’s aromatic identity skews toward citrus-herbal with sweet, floral top notes and a faint conifer undertone. On first rub, growers often report lemon zest, sweet basil, and green mango edges, suggesting limonene, ocimene, and myrcene interplay. Secondary notes can include crushed pine needle and a peppery tickle from beta-caryophyllene. The overall effect is bright, clean, and more uplifting than earthy.
During late bloom, the scent intensifies and picks up a fizzing terpene character common to terpinolene-forward cultivars. This can read as lime soda, green apple skin, or even fresh laundry depending on phenotype and curing technique. Total terpene content for well-grown plants commonly falls around 1.2–2.4% by dry weight, though individual grow results vary by environment and post-harvest handling. Slow drying at 60°F/60% RH typically preserves more of the volatile fraction.
Cracking a cured jar often unveils sequenced layers: a bright citrus lift first, then a herbal-spice mid, and finally a resinous, faintly woody base. Terpinolene contributes the airy, high-pitched sweetness, while limonene provides zesty clarity. Caryophyllene and humulene infuse a grounding, peppered backbone that prevents the nose from veering purely candy-sweet. Proper cure can transform any early grassiness into a clean, polished bouquet within 14–28 days.
Aromatics are sensitive to handling and environmental conditions, and Auto Assassin is no exception. Extended exposure to heat and light can evaporate monoterpenes rapidly, dulling the citrus-bright top notes. To retain the signature bouquet, aim for minimal agitation at harvest and avoid forced, high-temperature dry rooms. Many growers report the terpene peak in the first two months after cure, with gradual softening thereafter.
Flavor and Mouthfeel
On inhalation, Auto Assassin typically opens with lively citrus—think lemon-lime spritz—followed by a sweet herbal echo. As the vapor lingers, mild pine and pepper come forward, creating a clean, sparkling finish that doesn’t coat the palate with heavy resin. The flavor arc mirrors the aroma, with terpinolene and limonene leading and caryophyllene adding subtle spice. Mouthfeel is smooth when properly flushed and cured.
Combustion delivers brighter top notes but can mute delicate floral traces if the cure is rushed. Vaporization at 170–185°C often reveals more of the green mango and sweet basil components, alongside a balsamic hint from humulene. At higher vapor temperatures, expect deeper resin tones and a sharper spice finish. Many users find the sweet-citrus lift pairs well with daytime activities and light snacks.
Terpenes are fragile and highly temperature-dependent, so flavor performance reflects both growing and curing discipline. Autos that finish under heat stress may present a thinner flavor, while plants dried slowly at 60/60 retain a fuller range of volatiles. A 2–4 week cure commonly improves flavor integration by 20–30% subjectively, especially the transition between zesty and spicy notes. Glass storage at 58–62% RH supports consistent draw quality over time.
In edibles, Auto Assassin’s citrus-herbal signature largely survives decarboxylation when infused at 90–95°C for 30–45 minutes. The resulting oils lean bright and slightly peppery, well-suited for confections or citrus-forward baked goods. Terpene carryover is reduced relative to inhalation, but the uplifting sensory profile remains recognizable. Properly dosed preparations maintain a clean finish without lingering bitterness.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Auto Assassin is generally positioned as a THC-dominant autoflower with low CBD. Reported potency from home growers and small-batch labs commonly falls in the 16–22% THC range by dry weight, with occasional outliers from 12–25% depending on phenotype and cultivation variables. Total cannabinoids often land between 18–26%, reflecting a modern auto with improved resin content. CBD usually registers below 1%, often in the 0.1–0.6% band.
Minor cannabinoids can include CBG in the 0.2–0.8% range and trace CBC, which may contribute to perceptual clarity and a balanced edge. Ratios remain THC-dominant, so the experiential profile tends toward energizing and focused rather than sedative. For users sensitive to THC, the sativa-forward terpene matrix can enhance the perceived intensity despite moderate lab values. As with most autos, environmental control contributes significantly to potency variance.
Lab outcomes are influenced by harvest timing; cutting at predominantly cloudy trichomes often yields a brisker, headier experience, while 10–15% amber can soften the edges. High PPFD and proper nutrition increase cannabinoid synthesis but require careful heat and VPD management to avoid terpene loss. Growers using CO2 enrichment at 800–1,000 ppm sometimes report a 5–10% bump in yield and small improvements in cannabinoid totals, provided PPFD is raised accordingly. Post-harvest technique can swing terpene and THC preservation by double-digit percentages.
While precise, peer-reviewed datasets on Auto Assassin are limited, the above ranges align with general improvements seen in autoflowers from 2018 onward. Modern autos commonly match mid-tier photoperiod potency, and Auto Assassin is no exception. Expect potency sufficient for experienced users while remaining accessible at lower doses for daytime use. As always, verify with batch-specific COAs when available.
Terpene Profile and Minor Volatiles
Auto Assassin frequently expresses a terpinolene-forward chemotype supported by limonene and beta-caryophyllene. Typical dominant terpene ranges observed by growers and small-scale tests are approximately terpinolene 0.3–0.8%, limonene 0.2–0.5%, beta-caryophyllene 0.2–0.6%, and myrcene 0.1–0.4%. Secondary contributors may include ocimene 0.05–0.2%, humulene 0.05–0.2%, and linalool 0.03–0.1%. Total terpene content commonly falls around 1.2–2.4% when dried and cured carefully.
Terpinolene is associated with a sparkling, piney-sweet aroma and has been noted in both uplifting and sedative contexts depending on entourage effects. In Auto Assassin, it tends to read bright and breezy, aligning with sativa-like energy. Limonene contributes citrus clarity and may synergize with caryophyllene’s pepper-woody depth to keep the bouquet balanced. Myrcene, present at modest levels, rounds the profile without pushing it into couch-lock territory.
Ocimene and humulene add green, herbal facets and mild bitterness that complements the citrus top end. Linalool, even at trace levels, can soften the edges and provide a faint floral thread. The precise ratios vary by phenotype and environment; temperature, light intensity, and nutrient balance can shift terpene expression measurably. Stress management and slow curing are decisive for preserving monoterpenes, which volatilize more readily than sesquiterpenes.
In sensory terms, a well-executed Auto Assassin sample presents as bright-first, spice-second, with a clean, resinous tail. Analytical profiles may resemble other terpinolene-leading sativa-leaning autos but with a slightly more grounded, peppered mid. Growers aiming to accentuate the citrus fraction often chill the dry room slightly and avoid late-flower heat spikes. Those choices can materially influence the final terpene percentages and perceived complexity.
Experiential Effects and Use Cases
Users commonly describe Auto Assassin as clear, uplifting, and task-friendly with minimal heaviness below the neck. Onset via inhalation is typically 2–10 minutes, peaking around 45–90 minutes, with a total duration of 2–3 hours. The mood profile trends toward upbeat and focused, suitable for creative sessions, light exercise, or social afternoons. Many report a subtle body buzz that never dominates the headspace.
The sativa-leaning terpene arrangement can make the effect feel stronger than the raw THC number suggests. Terpinolene and limonene lend brightness that some interpret as mental “snap,” while caryophyllene’s CB2 affinity may contribute to a composed undertone. In higher doses or for anxiety-prone users, the stimulation can nudge into racy territory, particularly on an empty stomach or with strong coffee. Hydration and measured pacing help maintain comfort.
Compared to sedative autos, Auto Assassin’s energy curve is more linear and less jittery when dosed modestly. It rarely produces heavy eyelids or full couch-lock unless harvested very late or consumed in large amounts. Background music and outdoor walks pair well, and many users find it beneficial for chores or hobby work. Social settings benefit from the crisp conversational lift without overwhelming introspection.
With edibles, the same lifted character persists, but onset shifts to 45–120 minutes and the experience may stretch to 4–8 hours. Dose control is crucial because the terpene-led clarity can mask creeping potency. For new users, beginning at low doses helps avoid accidental overconsumption. Experienced consumers often treat Auto Assassin as a daytime or early evening choice that leaves energy in the tank.
Potential Medical Applications (Not Medical Advice)
Auto Assassin’s uplifting, THC-dominant profile is often discussed anecdotally for mood elevation, task engagement, and stress modulation. Limonene and terpinolene are associated in preclinical literature with anxiolytic and alerting properties, though effects vary widely by individual and dose. Beta-caryophyllene, a CB2 agonist, has anti-inflammatory potential demonstrated in animal models, which may align with user reports of mild relief for tension and aches. Myrcene, present at modest levels, can provide a gentle body ease without heavy sedation in this chemotype.
Patients who prefer functional daytime options might explore Auto Assassin for fatigue, low motivation, or stress-related tension based on community feedback. The clear-headed lift can be helpful for creative work or light activity, with fewer reports of grogginess compared to indica-heavy autos. However, for individuals with a history of cannabis-induced anxiety, stimulatory sativa profiles can be hit-or-miss. Titrating dose is essential to identify a comfortable range.
Appetite support can surface at mid-to-high doses, though Auto Assassin is not typically classified as a strong munchies driver. Neuropathic pain relief is reported anecdotally by some users, potentially due to THC’s central mechanisms combined with caryophyllene’s peripheral CB2 activity. Sleep improvements are less common unless dosing late or harvesting at higher amber percentages. Always consider set, setting, and personal sensitivity when evaluating therapeutic fit.
As with all cannabis use, consult local laws and, where applicable, a healthcare professional knowledgeable in cannabinoid therapy. Batch-specific lab results (COAs) should guide any medical use, as chemotype and potency can vary. Noncombustion routes like vaporization may be preferable for respiratory considerations. This section is informational and not a substitute for medical advice.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Auto Assassin rewards disciplined planning because autos provide a narrow window for training and corrections. Start seeds directly in their final container to avoid transplant shock, which can reduce final yield by 10–30% in autos. Germination typically occurs within 24–72 hours at 24–26°C with 95–100% RH in a propagation dome. Fresh, properly stored seeds from reputable sources often show 90–98% viability.
Containers of 11–19 liters (3–5 gallons) are common; fabric pots support aeration and root pruning. In coco/perlite (70/30), aim for pH 5.8–6.2; in soil, target 6.2–6.8. Maintain gentle moisture during week one, transitioning to frequent, lighter irrigations that yield 10–15% runoff in coco. Overwatering early can stunt autos irreversibly, so allow the medium to lighten between feedings.
Lighting at 18/6 or 20/4 is standard; autos do not require a 12/12 cycle to flower. Provide PPFD around 300–400 in week one, 450–650 in weeks 2–4, and 600–800 during bloom, adjusting for cultivar response and leaf temperature. Daily Light Integral (DLI) targets of 20–30 mol/m²/day early and 35–45 mol/m²/day in bloom are productive without excessive stress. If enriching CO2 to 800–1,000 ppm, PPFD can be pushed toward 900–1,000 with careful heat management.
Temperature targets are 24–28°C daytime and 18–21°C nighttime with VPD around 0.9–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in flower. Keep gentle airflow across the canopy to prevent microclimates and support transpiration. RH should start around 65–70% in the first two weeks, tapering to 50–55% mid-flower and 45–50% late flower. These parameters reduce mold risk while preserving volatile terpenes.
Nutrition should be modest early; autos dislike heavy feeding in week one. In vegetative growth, an N-P-K ratio around 3-1-2 with EC 1.0–1.3 works well; transition to 1-2-3 in bloom with EC 1.4–1.8 depending on medium. Maintain Ca 150–200 ppm and Mg 40–60 ppm, particularly in coco, to prevent leaf tip necrosis and interveinal chlorosis. Cease high nitrogen by week five to avoid leafy buds and delayed ripening.
Training is most effective between days 12–28 from seed. Low-stress training (LST) to bend the main stem laterally opens the canopy and encourages even tops without triggering stress delays. If topping, do so only once around node 3–4 between days 14–18; late topping can reduce yield. Remove only a few fan leaves at a time, focusing on those that shade multiple bud sites.
Preflower typically appears between days 18–25; stretch continues for 10–14 days thereafter. Maintain even canopy height by adjusting ties and raising shorter branches. During stretch, keep nitrogen moderate and provide steady potassium to support rapid cell expansion. Excessive defoliation at this stage can slow growth and lower final output.
Auto Assassin generally finishes 70–85 days from seed indoors, with some phenotypes extending to 90 days depending on environment. Outdoors, expect 75–95 days in mild climates; earlier finishers are possible in warm, sunny regions. Indoor yields commonly reach 350–500 g/m² under optimized conditions, with 60–120 g per plant typical in 3–5 gallon pots. CO2 and high-intensity lighting can lift yields by 5–15% when dialed in.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) should be proactive. Use yellow sticky cards to monitor fungus gnats and thrips, and consider beneficial predators like Hypoaspis miles for soil pests. Maintain clean floors, sanitize tools, and quarantine clones to reduce pathogen load. For powdery mildew prevention, ensure airflow and avoid large humidity swings; avoid sulfur in mid-to-late flower to protect terpenes.
Water quality matters; source water EC above 0.3–0.4 may require filtration to control accumulation. In coco, irrigate to runoff to maintain root zone stability; in soil, water to full saturation then allow a partial dryback. Root zone temperatures in the 20–22°C range encourage robust growth. Avoid cold floors by elevating pots on grates or stands.
Harvest timing is best determined by trichome observation. For a brisk headspace, harvest at mostly cloudy with 0–5% amber; for a rounder effect, wait for 10–15% amber. Flushing practices vary by medium, but many coco growers reduce EC to 0.6–0.8 for the final 5–7 days, while organic soil growers taper inputs naturally. A slow dry at 60°F and 60% RH for 10–14 days preserves terpenes better than quick drying.
Curing in glass jars at 58–62% RH for 2–6 weeks smooths the finish and integrates flavors. Burp jars daily for the first week, then every other day for the second, and weekly thereafter. Data from craft operations indicate slow curing can improve perceived aroma intensity by 15–30% versus rapid dry-and-jar approaches. Store long-term in cool, dark conditions to minimize terpene and cannabinoid degradation.
Yield Expectations, Harvest Window, and Quality Optimization
Indoors, Auto Assassin commonly delivers 350–500 g/m² under competent LED lighting with PPFD 600–800 and a stable environment. Individual plants in 11–19 liter pots typically yield 60–120 g, with experienced growers sometimes exceeding 150 g by optimizing canopy management and feeding. Outdoors in temperate climates, container plants often range from 40–150 g depending on sunlight hours and pot size. Dense, sunlit canopies produce more uniform, resin-rich flowers.
The majority of phenotypes finish within 70–85 days from seed in indoor runs. Early phenotypes may be ready at day 68–72, while late-leaning phenos can edge toward 90 days under cooler or lower-light conditions. Harvest decisions should prioritize trichome maturity and calyx swell rather than arbitrary timelines. Aiming for 10–15% amber trichomes often yields a balanced experience without losing too much of the bright top-end.
Quality optimization starts with environmental discipline in late flower. Keep leaf surface temperatures controlled to preserve monoterpenes; canopy temps of 24–26°C and RH around 48–52% for the final two weeks are a common sweet spot. Excessive heat can shrink the volatile fraction, flattening aroma and flavor. Avoid late heavy defoliation that can stress plants and accelerate drying unevenly.
Post-harvest, the 60/60 method—60°F and 60% RH for 10–14 days—has become a craft standard, correlating with better terpene retention and smoother smoke. Trim carefully to avoid rupturing gland heads; dry trimming often retains more trichomes for this cultivar. After a month of curing at 58–62% RH, many samples show noticeable flavor maturation and a clearer, cleaner nose. Proper storage can extend peak quality for months.
Influence on Hybrids and Breeding Use
Auto Assassin has been picked up in external breeding projects as a tool to carry autoflowering into sativa-leaning frameworks. SeedFinder’s compilation of Original Strains genealogy lists “M8 (Original Strains) x Auto Assassin (GeneSeeds Bank),” evidence that it serves as a parent in subsequent hybridization. In that same listing environment, Auto Assassin appears alongside lines associated with names like Wild Thai Buddha, reinforcing its place in conversations about sativa-forward autos. Such references indicate that breeders value the cultivar’s balance of speed and aromatic lift.
As a donor, Auto Assassin contributes reliable transition to flower by day length independence while maintaining upright architecture and crisp terpene expression. This combination helps reduce the classic trade-off where speed undermines complexity. When bred into longer-bloom sativa lines, it can shorten total run time by several weeks while preserving a high-energy effect. For seedmakers, this is a strategic lever to broaden market appeal to home growers.
Growers of these hybrids frequently report manageable height, moderate internodal spacing, and improved resin density compared to first-gen autos. Aroma inheritance trends citrus-herbal with spice, indicating transmission of limonene, terpinolene, and caryophyllene fractions. The breeder-facing value lies in predictable timing; harvest windows cluster tightly, which simplifies product planning. This predictability also improves user satisfaction by reducing the variance between packs.
In summary, Auto Assassin’s utility in breeding is born from a clear phenotype package: fast, focused, and aromatic without excessive stature. That package aligns well with the needs of indoor cultivators and balcony gardeners alike. As autoflower technology continues to mature, these traits make Auto Assassin a compelling bridge between traditional sativa character and modern, time-efficient cultivation. Its presence in published genealogies underscores that ongoing relevance.
