Written by Ad OpsIntroduction and Overview of Auto Lavender
Auto Lavender is an autoflowering, indica-leaning cultivar developed by CBD Seeds, engineered by combining a photoperiod Lavender line with ruderalis genetics. As an autoflower, it initiates bloom based on age rather than light cycle, giving growers fast turnaround in compact spaces. This makes it attractive for discreet indoor setups and short outdoor seasons, where a seed-to-harvest window under three months is often achievable under optimal conditions.
The strain’s name signals its signature bouquet: floral, sweet, and herbaceous, with a gentle spice that recalls dried lavender, pepper, and resinous wood. Its ruderalis/indica heritage tends to keep plants short and stocky, with dense buds and a forgiving growth habit. On reputable strain directories, including the CannaConnection sitemap, Auto Lavender is listed among notable autoflowers, reflecting its recognized place in the market.
While exact lab data vary by breeder batch and environment, Auto Lavender generally aims for approachable potency and soothing effects. Many growers report a balanced evening effect profile—relaxing without being overpoweringly sedative at moderate doses. CBD Seeds’ take on this lineage focuses on reliability, aromatic finesse, and a streamlined grower experience.
History and Breeding Background
Auto Lavender emerged from the broader wave of second- and third-generation autoflowers that followed the first ruderalis hybrids of the late 2000s. Early autos were prized for speed but often criticized for modest potency; breeders like CBD Seeds invested in backcrossing and selection to raise THC levels while preserving the rapid, day-neutral flowering trait. The result is a cultivar designed to capture the floral charm of Lavender-style genetics in a compact, fast, and accessible package.
The parentage leans on an indica-dominant Lavender line, historically associated with a complex blend of floral and spice notes, then crossed with a robust ruderalis donor. Breeding objectives included improving calyx density, terpene retention, and uniformity across phenotypes, especially important for autos where vegetative time is limited. Over successive generations, stable expressions of aroma and growth structure were prioritized alongside a moderate-to-high cannabinoid ceiling for an autoflower.
Autoflower adoption has grown significantly in the last decade, particularly among home growers who value rapid turnaround cycles. In community surveys and seedbank sales trends, autos now represent a substantial share of the hobbyist market, with many growers completing two to three cycles per season outdoors in temperate zones. Auto Lavender positioned itself within this movement as a floral-forward indica auto that is easy to manage and consistent enough for novice and intermediate cultivators.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
According to CBD Seeds and community knowledge, Auto Lavender carries a ruderalis/indica heritage, with the photoperiod parent drawn from a Lavender-type line and the ruderalis donor contributing the autoflowering trait. The Lavender side historically connects to indica-forward building blocks, which are often derived from Afghan, Skunk, and hybridized tropical influences depending on the specific breeder line used. For CBD Seeds’ Auto Lavender, the emphasis is on the indica side of the spectrum, favoring compact internodal spacing and a calm, soothing effect profile.
Ruderalis genetics, native to higher-latitude regions, provide the ability to flower independent of photoperiod, typically initiating around weeks 3–4 from germination. While ruderalis can dilute cannabinoid potency, modern breeding has recovered much of that ceiling through recurrent selection and backcrossing. In practice, Auto Lavender displays the ruderalis trait dominantly while inheriting the terpene complexity and bud structure from its indica forebears.
Growers generally observe limited phenotypic drift when sourcing from reputable batches, although minor variability in height and finish time is normal in autos. Indica-dominant traits such as broader leaflets, thicker petioles, and dense colas tend to be consistent. The floral-herbal terpene fingerprint, including linalool, myrcene, and caryophyllene, often emerges reliably across phenotypes.
Appearance and Growth Morphology
Auto Lavender plants are typically compact, finishing at 60–100 cm indoors under 18–20 hours of light, with shorter expressions common in small containers or under lower-intensity lighting. The structure leans stocky, featuring short internodes and a Christmas-tree silhouette if left untrained. Lateral branching is moderate, producing multiple golf-ball to soda-can-sized clusters that merge into chunky colas by late bloom.
The buds themselves are dense, often with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio that simplifies trimming. Trichome coverage is robust by late flower, building a frosted look, especially on sugar leaves. In cooler night temperatures (15–18°C), some phenotypes can pick up faint lavender-to-plum hues, aligning with the strain’s name and aesthetic appeal.
Leaf morphology trends toward broader indica leaflets, dark green in nitrogen-rich substrates. As potassium and phosphorus uptake ramps in mid flower, fan leaves may lighten slightly while bracts swell visibly. By weeks 7–9 from sprout, flowers present prominent pistil clusters that gradually darken from ivory to orange-copper as maturity approaches.
Aroma and Bouquet
The bouquet is the calling card of Auto Lavender—floral and soothing, with clear notes reminiscent of dried lavender, fresh herbs, and lightly resinous wood. Many growers notice a sweet underpinning, like honeyed tea or sugar-dusted herbs, that softens the spice. On agitation, peppery and earthy facets rise, suggestive of beta-caryophyllene and humulene.
Breaking a cured bud intensifies the aromatic range, revealing a clean herbal lilt akin to rosemary and thyme. Linalool and myrcene often lend a calming, spa-like impression, while faint citrus or berry hints may appear in some phenotypes. The overall effect is refined rather than loud—pleasantly aromatic without the sharp diesel or skunk punch found in other indica lines.
During cultivation, carbon filtration is recommended once preflowers stack, as the aroma ramps up notably from week 5 onward. In sealed rooms, terpene concentration can become pronounced during late bloom and early cure. Proper environmental control will preserve the most delicate floral top notes through drying and storage.
Flavor and Palate
On the palate, Auto Lavender presents a smooth, floral-forward profile with a gentle sweetness on the inhale. Many users describe flavors of lavender tea, soft herbs, and a whisper of vanilla or honey. The exhale introduces a mild pepper-spice edge, underscored by earthy resin and a subtle woodiness.
When vaporized at lower temperatures (175–190°C), the floral and herbal top notes are most vivid, highlighting linalool, myrcene, and possible ocimene traces. Higher temperatures (200–210°C) emphasize caryophyllene’s peppery character and deeper earthy tones. Combustion tends to round the edges, delivering a classic hash-like finish common to indica-dominant flowers.
A clean cure preserves sweetness and reduces any chlorophyll bitterness. Expect the best flavor development after 3–4 weeks of jar curing with stable humidity in the 58–62% range. With proper storage, terpene character remains robust for several months before gradually mellowing.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Because cannabinoid expression in autoflowers can vary by phenotype and cultivation, ranges are the most realistic way to characterize potency. Grower reports and independent lab tests of comparable ruderalis/indica autos commonly fall in the 12–18% THC range, with well-grown examples sometimes reaching the upper teens. CBD levels are typically low, often below 1%, with CBG occasionally registering in the 0.2–0.8% range.
For users seeking a middle-ground experience, Auto Lavender’s usual potency band supports relaxed, functional evenings at modest doses and deeper sedation at higher doses. Ruderalis inheritance can slightly reduce absolute THC ceilings compared to elite photoperiod indicas, but modern auto breeding has narrowed that gap significantly. With optimized lighting, feeding, and environmental control, potency is generally consistent and satisfying for most use cases.
Decarboxylation behavior is standard for THC-dominant flower, with a typical 10–12% mass loss on conversion and moisture reduction during curing. For edible preparation, a 110–115°C decarb for 35–45 minutes is often used to activate cannabinoids while limiting terpene volatilization. Analytical verification is recommended if precise dosing is required for medical use.
Terpene Profile and Chemistry
Auto Lavender’s terpene profile typically centers on linalool, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene, with humulene and ocimene often present as supporting actors. In market-wide datasets, myrcene is one of the most common primary terpenes in indica-dominant cultivars, frequently measured between 0.3–1.0% by dry weight. Linalool, while less common as a dominant terpene across the broader market, is emblematic in Lavender-type lines and can present in the 0.2–0.6% range.
Beta-caryophyllene often falls in the 0.2–0.5% range in indica-forward chemotypes and is notable as a dietary cannabinoid-terpene that interacts with CB2 receptors in vitro. Humulene may contribute a dry, woody-herbal nuance, while ocimene can offer light, sweet floral tones. Trace terpenes like terpinolene or nerolidol may appear occasionally, modulating the fragrance without overtly dominating.
From a sensory perspective, the dominance of linalool and myrcene aligns with the strain’s calming, spa-like aroma and its gentle physical relaxation. Linalool has been studied for anxiolytic and sedative-adjacent properties in aromatherapy models, while myrcene is commonly associated anecdotally with body-heavy effects. Caryophyllene’s potential anti-inflammatory action via CB2 adds theoretical support for the strain’s soothing profile, though human clinical evidence in cannabis-specific contexts is still developing.
Experiential Effects and Use Cases
Users commonly describe Auto Lavender as deeply relaxing in the body with a tranquil, lightly euphoric headspace. Onset is quick with inhalation—often within 5–10 minutes—peaking around 30–45 minutes and tapering gently over 2–3 hours. At moderate doses, it suits evening unwinding, light creative tasks, or calm socializing without racing thoughts.
At higher doses, the indica body load increases, which many find conducive to sleep and relief from physical tension. The floral terpene signature and mid-range THC often produce a clear, contented calm rather than a heavy couchlock, though phenotypes and personal tolerance vary. Common side effects include dry mouth and eyes; sensitive users may experience mild orthostatic lightheadedness, particularly when standing quickly.
For daytime use, microdosing or vaporization at low temperature can keep effects functional and focused. Pairing with hydration and a light snack can mitigate cottonmouth and maintain stable blood sugar. As always, start low and titrate slowly, especially with new batches or unfamiliar phenotypes.
Potential Therapeutic Applications
Auto Lavender’s profile suggests potential utility for stress relief, anxious mood, and sleep initiation. Linalool-forward chemotypes are often favored by patients seeking calming effects, with anecdotal reports aligning with reduced agitation and improved sleep latency. THC in the 12–18% band can support analgesia for mild-to-moderate pain, while caryophyllene’s CB2 affinity provides a mechanistic basis for anti-inflammatory potential.
Patients with muscle tension, menstrual discomfort, or stress-related headaches may find symptomatic relief, especially in the evening. Individuals sensitive to high-THC strains that trigger anxiety might appreciate Auto Lavender’s gentler onset and floral terpene balance, though THC sensitivity still varies widely. For persistent issues such as chronic pain or insomnia, consistent dosing and tracking outcomes in a journal can help identify the most effective schedule and method of administration.
Evidence caveats apply: while individual constituents like linalool and caryophyllene have supportive preclinical data, large, controlled clinical trials on whole-plant chemotypes remain limited. Patients should consult healthcare professionals, particularly when using cannabis alongside prescription medications. Vaporization for pulmonary concerns, or tinctures and capsules for precise dosing, can be considered based on personal needs and medical guidance.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Auto Lavender’s ruderalis/indica heritage makes it straightforward to grow, even for first-timers. The plant is forgiving of minor mistakes, provided extreme stress and heavy pruning are avoided during the first three weeks. Most growers report a seed-to-harvest window around 70–85 days, with faster phenotypes at the low end and fuller expressions at the high end.
Germinate seeds in a light, aerated medium at 24–26°C with 65–70% relative humidity (RH). Because autos dislike transplant shock, either start in the final container or use a rapid, early transplant at day 7–10 from a 0.5–1 L starter to the final pot. Final containers of 11–15 L (3–4 gallons) in soil or 8–12 L in coco provide a good balance between root room and cycle time.
Lighting is pivotal for autos given the short vegetative period. A schedule of 18/6 or 20/4 light/dark is standard, with 20/4 often yielding slightly more biomass while allowing a dark period for plant metabolism. Aim for 500–700 µmol/m²/s PPFD in early growth, rising to 700–900 µmol/m²/s in bloom, translating to a daily light integral (DLI) of roughly 25–35 mol/m²/day in early stages and 35–45 mol/m²/day in late flower.
Maintain daytime temperatures of 24–26°C and nighttime 20–22°C. Keep RH around 60–65% in early veg, 50–55% at stretch, and 40–45% in late bloom to curb botrytis risk in dense colas. Strong, oscillating airflow and a well-sized carbon filter will manage both microclimate and aroma.
Soil growers can use a lightly fertilized base with added perlite (20–30%) for drainage. Coco/perlite blends at 70/30 support faster growth with precise fertigation. Target pH 6.2–6.5 in soil and 5.8–6.2 in coco/hydro; consistent pH is critical for calcium and magnesium uptake in vigorous flowering.
Feeding should be modest early, rising steadily through stretch. A practical electrical conductivity (EC) progression is EC 0.8–1.0 in seedling, 1.1–1.4 in early veg, 1.4–1.6 through mid flower, and 1.6–1.8 at peak bloom if plants signal demand. Autos often prefer slightly lighter nitrogen than photoperiod indicas; watch for overly dark, clawing leaves as a sign to dial back N.
Irrigation strategy should prevent both overwatering and severe drybacks. In soil, water when the top 2–3 cm are dry, achieving 10–20% runoff to prevent salt buildup. In coco, smaller, more frequent irrigations maintain stable root-zone EC and oxygenation; many growers feed once daily in early stages, rising to twice daily during peak transpiration.
Training is best kept gentle. Low-stress training (LST) from days 14–28 can open the canopy and increase light penetration without stalling growth. Avoid topping past day 18–21 in most cases; autos recover slower than photoperiods, and lost time is hard to regain in their fixed lifecycle.
Pest and disease management should be preventive. Sticky traps, regular leaf inspections, and a clean environment deter fungus gnats, thrips, and spider mites—common indoor issues. Biologicals like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTi) for gnats and predatory mites for spider mites can be integrated early; a single missed infestation can reduce yields significantly in short-cycle autos.
Stretch is moderate—typically 1.5x height from preflower—so plan headroom accordingly. As flowers bulk, support heavy branches with soft ties or a light trellis. Keep average leaf surface temperatures aligned with air temp to reduce vapor pressure deficit (VPD) stress; a VPD of 0.9–1.2 kPa in bloom is a reasonable target.
Harvest timing is best determined by trichome maturity rather than day count. For a balanced effect, aim for mostly cloudy trichomes with about 10–15% amber; more amber than that will tilt effects sedative, which some growers prefer for sleep. Pistil color alone is not a reliable indicator, but most plants will show 70–90% browned pistils near maturity.
Yields depend on environment, container size, and light intensity. Indoor growers commonly report 300–450 g/m² under efficient LEDs at 700–900 µmol/m²/s, with experienced cultivators occasionally exceeding that in dialed-in rooms. Outdoors, 40–120 g per plant is typical in 11–20 L pots, with multiple runs per season possible in temperate climates due to autoflowering independence from day length.
Drying and curing preserve Auto Lavender’s floral top notes. Hang whole plants or large branches at 18–20°C and 55–60% RH for 8–12 days, then cure in airtight jars at 58–62% RH burped daily for the first week. This method minimizes terpene loss and chlorophyll harshness, delivering a smooth, aromatic final product.
Market Presence and Sourcing Notes
Auto Lavender appears on reputable directories such as CannaConnection, where it is listed among other autoflowers in the site’s sitemap. This signals sufficient recognition and interest to warrant inclusion in widely referenced strain catalogs. Always verify that the version you purchase is the CBD Seeds original, as the name is used by multiple seed vendors and chemotype consistency can vary.
When sourcing, look for clear breeder attribution, recent lot numbers, and retailer reputations backed by verified buyer feedback. Autoflower seeds should be fresh; germination rates decline over time if stored poorly. Proper storage before sowing—cool, dark, and dry—will keep viability high and reduce early-stage variability.
Phenotypic stability is generally good, but minor differences in height and finish time are normal in autoflowers. If uniformity is critical, consider starting a larger cohort (e.g., 5–10 seeds) and selecting your preferred phenotype for future runs. Keep detailed grow notes to lock in the environmental and feeding parameters that best express Auto Lavender’s floral character.
