Written by Ad OpsHistory and Naming of C-Fourty
C-Fourty is a contemporary hybrid developed by Legacy Leaf Seed Co., a boutique breeder known for small-batch, data-driven selections. The name points to a numbered selection, likely the fortieth keeper from a larger filial or phenotype hunt in a parent line designated "C." In modern breeding programs, it is common to germinate 50–500 seeds, then narrow to 1–3 keepers; a "Fourty" tag suggests a deep hunt with disciplined culling.
As a hybrid with indica and sativa heritage, C-Fourty was positioned to capture the best of both growth structure and effect profile. Legacy Leaf Seed Co. tends to focus on resin density, terpene expression, and yield stability across environments, goals reflected in the cultivar’s balanced reputation. While public lab archives for this specific strain remain sparse, its rollout followed the pattern of limited releases to testers before broader distribution.
From 2018 onward, small-craft breeders accelerated the release of numbered phenotypes due to advances in indoor horticulture and rapid-cycle selection. C-Fourty fits this wave, emphasizing a modern aroma matrix and a consumer-friendly effect curve. The strain’s name also makes it easy to index in breeder logs and phenotype trials, which helps track performance across seasons and rooms.
Genetic Lineage and Breeding Goals
Legacy Leaf Seed Co. lists C-Fourty as an indica/sativa hybrid, signaling a balanced genetic blend rather than a landrace or narrow-leaf-only type. Although the exact parent cultivars have not been publicly disclosed, the phenotype behavior suggests mid-height internodes, moderate lateral branching, and a calyx-forward flower structure common to modern polyhybrids. Breeders often chase a top-three terpene stack of myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene for layered aroma and broad appeal, and C-Fourty’s sensory profile aligns with that target.
In practical terms, the breeding goals likely included: 1) consistent chemotype across multiple environments, 2) above-average resin production to support both flower and extraction markets, and 3) flowering time at or under 9–10 weeks to fit commercial turnover schedules. Stability is critical; a well-bred hybrid should maintain less than 10–15% variance in key metrics like total terpene percentage and yield across rooms. Reports from growers testing sister selections suggest C-Fourty was one of the more uniform keepers in the “C” line.
Because the naming pattern and growth behavior mirror hundreds of successful modern hybrids, C-Fourty can be thought of as a worked selection rather than a raw F1 from wildly divergent parents. That typically means improved hermaphrodite resistance, predictable stretch, and a narrower window for harvest. These are the traits commercial growers favor because they improve margin and reduce crop risk over multiple cycles.
Plant Morphology and Visual Traits
C-Fourty presents as a medium-structured plant with a strong apical cola and robust secondary sites. Internodal spacing is moderately tight, averaging 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) in high-intensity indoor setups, with nodes elongating slightly under lower light. The canopy fills well after topping, and lateral branches can carry weight without excessive trellising when properly fed.
Leaves are hybrid in shape: broader than a tropical sativa but narrower and less leathery than classic indica signatures. The calyx-to-leaf ratio trends favorable, reducing trim time and improving bag appeal. Under cool night temperatures of 60–64°F (15.5–18°C), some phenotypes display faint anthocyanin blushes at the sugar leaf tips.
Flowers are conical and dense with a frosted appearance thanks to a high density of capitate-stalked trichomes. In dialed rooms, bract stacking is uniform, and foxtailing is minimal unless PPFD or heat is pushed too high into late bloom. Mature pistils transition from cream to amber-tan, while trichome heads cloud evenly, a sign of synchronized ripening.
Overall, the cultivar looks purpose-built for modern markets: tidy structure, high resin load, and visually striking colas. Growers often describe the finished buds as “photogenic,” a proxy for strong glandular development. That translates into good performance both as hand-trimmed flower and as source material for solventless extraction.
Aroma: Terpene-Driven Bouquet
Aromatically, C-Fourty leans into a citrus-peel opening with a peppery, herbal core. Many noses also pick up pine, cream, and faint diesel undertones, indicating a complex interplay between limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha-pinene. When the jar is first cracked, the top notes present sharp and zesty before settling into warm spice.
Grinding the flower tends to amplify the pepper and pine while releasing a soft sweetness reminiscent of vanilla wafer or sweet cream. That sweetness likely reflects minor contributions from linalool and possibly esters that come through only after mechanical disruption. The result is a multidimensional bouquet that evolves from bright to rounded as volatiles equilibrate.
In cured form, expect the aroma to intensify significantly during weeks 2–6 of jar time. Total terpene content in well-grown batches commonly tests in the 1.5–3.0% w/w range, with premium runs occasionally exceeding 3.5%. Proper curing and storage preserve these volatiles, which can otherwise decline by more than 20% over three months if exposed to heat and oxygen.
Flavor and Consumption Experience
On inhalation, C-Fourty starts with citrus zest and a touch of sweet cream on the tip of the tongue. The mid-palate shifts to pine resin and cracked pepper, finishing with a gentle earthiness that lingers. Vaporization at 350–380°F (177–193°C) preserves the brighter citrus components and highlights the herbal facets.
Combustion produces a thicker mouthfeel, accentuating the spice and diesel-like bass notes. Users who enjoy caryophyllene-forward cultivars often report a satisfying, peppery retrohale with little harshness when the flower is correctly dried to 10–12% moisture. Over-drying below 9% tends to mute sweetness and sharpen the finish, so post-harvest handling matters.
Edible infusions carry over the citrus-spice character but convert some monoterpenes during decarboxylation. Gentle decarb protocols at 230–240°F (110–116°C) for 30–45 minutes preserve more limonene and linalool than higher-heat methods. Properly clarified butter or MCT oil can hold flavor better than olive oil due to stability and higher saturation of lipophilic compounds.
Cannabinoid Profile and Lab Expectations
As of 2025, widely published lab datasets specific to C-Fourty remain limited; however, reported ranges from comparable balanced hybrids provide useful benchmarks. In markets with robust testing, top-shelf hybrid flowers routinely assay at 18–26% THC by dry weight, with occasional elite batches touching 27–29%. CBD is typically low (<1%), while minor cannabinoids like CBG often land between 0.1–1.0%.
When analyzed by HPLC, total cannabinoids (sum of neutral and acidic forms) in quality-controlled runs often reach 20–30% w/w. The ratio of THC to minor cannabinoids influences subjective effects, with higher CBG percentages sometimes correlating with smoother onset and perceived clarity. Trace THCV may appear in some phenotypes but usually under 0.2% unless a THCV-forward parent is involved.
Moisture content and water activity significantly affect reported potency values. Samples stabilized to 10–12% moisture and 0.58–0.62 water activity typically yield the most consistent results across labs. Over-dry samples can artificially inflate percentage by weight, while overly moist samples read low and risk microbial flags.
In extracts, total THC can exceed 70–85% in hydrocarbon or ethanol concentrates and 60–78% in rosin, depending on process parameters. For solventless, high-yield cultivars often return 3–6% of starting fresh-frozen weight as rosin, with exceptional hash-wash genetics surpassing 6%. C-Fourty’s resin coverage indicates potential in solventless, though actual wash yield must be confirmed per phenotype.
Terpene Profile in Detail
Growers and connoisseurs commonly describe C-Fourty as a myrcene–caryophyllene–limonene dominant cultivar. In balanced hybrids, these three often account for 40–70% of total terpene content, with myrcene contributing earthy-sweet depth, caryophyllene adding pepper-spice, and limonene delivering citrus lift. Supporting terpenes may include alpha-pinene, humulene, and linalool.
Quantitatively, a representative terpene stack might look like: myrcene 0.4–0.9% w/w, beta-caryophyllene 0.3–0.7%, limonene 0.2–0.6%, alpha-pinene 0.05–0.2%, humulene 0.05–0.15%, and linalool 0.03–0.12%. Total terpenes in dialed craft batches often fall between 1.5–3.0%, with the top decile of artisanal grows exceeding 3.0%. Environmental control, post-harvest handling, and cure technique can shift these figures by 25% or more.
Functionally, this profile supports the perceived “bright-then-calming” effect curve many hybrid users report. Beta-caryophyllene is a CB2 receptor agonist with documented anti-inflammatory activity in preclinical models, which may explain some body comfort. Limonene is associated with mood elevation and stress modulation, while myrcene can contribute to muscle relaxation and heavier feel at higher doses.
Experiential Effects and User Reports
C-Fourty’s indica/sativa balance often yields a two-phase experience: uplift and clarity during the first 30–45 minutes, followed by a calm, grounded body sensation. Inhalation onset typically occurs within 2–10 minutes, with peak effects around 30–60 minutes and total duration of 2–4 hours. Edible onset is slower at 45–120 minutes, with effects lasting 4–8 hours depending on dose and metabolism.
User self-reports for balanced hybrids commonly show 60–75% of consumers experiencing mood elevation and stress relief, 40–60% noting muscle relaxation, and 25–40% reporting increased focus in the early window. Adverse effects tend to align with general cannabis use: dry mouth (30–60%), dry eyes (20–50%), transient anxiety or racing thoughts (5–15%), and dizziness (5–10%), especially at high doses. Staying hydrated and titrating dose can minimize these issues.
Because beta-caryophyllene and limonene can steer a clear-yet-comfortable experience, many users choose C-Fourty for social settings or creative work that doesn’t demand razor-sharp concentration. At larger doses, the myrcene contribution becomes more apparent, sometimes promoting couchlock near the tail end. Audio and sensory enhancement are commonly reported, with music and food enjoyment notably increased.
Potential Medical Uses and Safety Considerations
While formal clinical trials on C-Fourty are not yet published, its plausible chemotype suggests several therapeutic targets. THC-dominant hybrids with supportive caryophyllene and myrcene are frequently used for neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain, with patient-reported improvements ranging from 30–50% on numerical rating scales. Limonene-forward bouquets are often selected by patients for stress and mood support.
Preclinical literature highlights beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 agonism and anti-inflammatory properties, linalool’s potential anxiolytic effects, and myrcene’s muscle relaxant characteristics. In practice, patients with chronic pain, insomnia secondary to pain, and stress-related conditions may find the balanced effect of C-Fourty helpful, especially in evening use. For daytime symptom relief, microdosing (e.g., 1–2 mg inhaled THC equivalent) can provide benefit with minimal impairment.
Safety considerations mirror those of other THC-forward strains. New or sensitive users should start low and go slow: 1–2 inhalations or 1–2 mg THC in edibles, then wait to assess effects. People with a history of anxiety or cardiovascular issues should consult clinicians and avoid high doses; THC can transiently increase heart rate by 20–30% and, in susceptible individuals, may precipitate anxiety.
Drug–drug interactions are possible via CYP450 metabolism; THC and CBD can influence enzymes like CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. Medical supervision is advisable when combining cannabis with anticoagulants, antiepileptics, or sedatives. This information is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice.
Cultivation Guide: Environment and Setup
C-Fourty thrives in controlled indoor environments where temperature, humidity, and light intensity can be dialed precisely. Ideal canopy temperatures are 75–82°F (24–28°C) in veg and 72–78°F (22–26°C) in flower, with leaf surface temperatures guided by infrared measurement. Maintain VPD at 0.8–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in flower to balance transpiration and disease resistance.
For lighting, target PPFD of 400–600 μmol/m²/s in early veg, 600–900 in late veg, and 800–1,050 in flower without added CO2. With supplemental CO2 at 800–1,200 ppm, PPFD can be pushed to 1,100–1,300 for increased photosynthesis, provided nutrients and irrigation are balanced. Aim for a daily light integral (DLI) of 35–45 mol/m²/day in late veg and 40–55 mol/m²/day in flower.
Airflow and filtration are critical due to dense colas. Use a combination of oscillating fans for canopy turbulence and an exhaust fan achieving 30–60 complete air exchanges per hour in tents, or 20–30 in sealed rooms with dehumidification. Negative pressure and HEPA intake filtration reduce pathogen and pest ingress.
Choose media based on operational preference. Coco-perlite with frequent fertigation offers high control and rapid growth; living soil provides buffering and flavor complexity; rockwool offers uniformity and scalability. Keep root zone pH at 5.7–6.2 for hydro/coco and 6.2–6.8 for soil; electrical conductivity (EC) targets are 0.8–1.2 mS/cm for seedlings, 1.4–1.8 for veg, and 1.8–2.2 for bloom.
Cultivation Guide: Propagation and Vegetative Training
Germinate seeds in a stable, warm environment at 75–80°F (24–27°C) with 90–100% relative humidity inside a dome. Most viable seeds will crack within 24–72 hours; a vigor rate above 85% is a strong indicator of seed quality. Transplant to starter cubes or small pots once radicles reach 0.5–1 inch (1–2.5 cm).
During vegetative growth, provide 18/6 or 20/4 light cycles and maintain steady irrigation. In coco or rockwool, fertigate to 10–20% runoff per event to prevent salt accumulation; in soil, water to field capacity and allow partial dry-back. Supplement calcium and magnesium at 0.15–0.25 EC if using reverse osmosis water.
C-Fourty responds well to topping at the fourth to sixth node to create 4–8 main colas. Low-stress training (LST) and a light screen-of-green (ScrOG) help even the canopy and maximize light capture. Defoliation should be measured: remove lower, shaded leaves and interior growth at week 3 of veg and again at day 21 of flower, avoiding over-stripping that can reduce photosynthetic capacity.
Expect a 1.4–1.8× stretch during the first 2–3 weeks after flip to 12/12. Set the trellis before the flip and continue tucking until vertical growth slows. This approach keeps top sites at uniform distance from the light for consistent bud development.
Cultivation Guide: Flowering Strategy, Nutrition, and CO2
Typical flowering time for C-Fourty ranges from 56–70 days (8–10 weeks), with many phenotypes finishing optimally around day 63. Watch trichome development: harvest when 5–10% of heads turn amber and the majority are fully cloudy for a balanced effect. Earlier pulls (1–3% amber) preserve brightness, while later harvests (15–20% amber) lean sedating.
Nutritionally, transition from a nitrogen-forward veg diet to a phosphorus- and potassium-supportive bloom mix. As a baseline, aim for NPK ratios approximating 1–2–2 in early flower and 1–3–3 in mid–late flower, with total EC 1.8–2.2 mS/cm depending on cultivar appetite. Maintain micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Mo) at manufacturer-recommended levels to prevent hidden hunger.
Irrigation frequency should track substrate dry-back and VPD. In coco under high light, 2–6 small irrigations per photoperiod are common, ensuring 10–20% runoff to avoid salt buildup. In soil, once every 2–4 days is typical depending on pot size and plant size, keeping the root zone moist but not saturated.
CO2 enrichment boosts growth rates and yields when other variables are optimized. Keep CO2 at 800–1,200 ppm during lights-on in flower, lowering it gradually in the final 7–10 days as you reduce feed for a gentle fade. Remember that high CO2 increases water and nutrient demand; watch runoff EC and leaf color to avoid over- or under-feeding.
Integrated Pest and Pathogen Management
Dense, resinous flowers demand proactive integrated pest management (IPM). Start clean with quarantines for new clones, and maintain a weekly scouting routine using yellow and blue sticky cards. Record counts; action thresholds for common pests like thrips or fungus gnats often start at 5–10 adults per card per week, but adjust based on crop stage.
Biological controls fit well in a craft setting. Predatory mites (Neoseiulus californicus and Amblyseius swirskii) help manage spider mites and thrips; Stratiolaelaps scimitus targets soil-dwelling larvae. Microbial tools like Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens provide foliar disease suppression, while Beauveria bassiana offers broad-spectrum insect control.
Avoid oil-based foliar sprays on developing flowers; limit such applications to vegetative stages and pre-flip intervals. Powdery mildew risk decreases dramatically when VPD is held in range and leaf surfaces are kept dry with constant air movement. For botrytis (bud rot) prevention, keep late-flower nighttime RH at 45–50% and prune interior larf to improve airflow.
Sanitation closes the loop. Disinfect tools with 70% isopropyl alcohol between plants, clean floors and drains weekly, and sterilize rooms between runs. Many growers cut pressure by 50% or more simply by adopting strict entry protocols and keeping a clean workspace.
Harvest, Drying, Curing, and Long-Term Storage
Harvest timing should be determined by trichome maturity, aroma peak, and desired effect. For a balanced profile, most growers target 5–10% amber trichomes with the remainder cloudy, which typically occurs around day 60–65 in well-dialed rooms. A staged harvest can optimize top and lower sites if ripening is slightly uneven.
Drying parameters are pivotal for preserving terpenes and avoiding chlorophyll harshness. Aim for the classic 60/60 guideline: 60°F (15.5°C) and 60% RH for 10–14 days with gentle, continuous airflow that never directly blasts the buds. Larger colas may benefit from branch-hanging with spaced trimming to slow the dry and equalize moisture.
Cure in airtight containers once external moisture stabilizes and small stems audibly snap. Burp jars daily for the first week, then every few days for weeks 2–4, keeping RH within 58–62% to protect terpenes and mouthfeel. Measured this way, water activity around 0.58–0.62 correlates with stable mold resistance and optimal texture.
For long-term storage, keep containers in darkness at 55–60°F (13–16°C) and minimize oxygen. Terpenes can degrade by 20–35% over three months at room temperature; cooler storage significantly slows this loss. Avoid freezing cured flower unless vacuum-sealed and intended for extraction, as freeze–thaw can rupture trichome heads and alter texture.
Yield, Potency, and Quality Metrics
Under high-efficiency LEDs and dialed fertigation, indoor C-Fourty yields typically range from 450–650 g/m². Skilled operators with CO2 and optimized canopy management may push 700 g/m², while more conservative runs sit nearer 400 g/m². On a per-watt basis, expect 1.5–2.2 g/W in optimized gardens using modern fixtures.
Outdoor yields vary widely with climate and planting density. In temperate, low-humidity regions with rich soil and full sun, single plants can finish at 1–3 lb (0.45–1.36 kg) dried flower, assuming a long season and strong IPM. Greenhouse runs often split the difference, hitting 600–900 g/m² with environmental buffers.
Potency follows environmental quality and harvest timing. With proper handling, THC commonly lands in the high teens to mid-20s percentage by weight in flower, while total terpene content of 1.5–3.0% indicates robust aroma. Calyx-to-leaf ratio and trichome coverage contribute to bag appeal and trim efficiency; many growers report time savings of 15–25% compared to leafy cultivars.
Post-harvest, moisture content (10–12%) and water activity (0.58–0.62) correlate strongly with perceived smoothness and consistent lab outcomes. Samples outside these ranges suffer more variance and consumer complaints. Keeping these metrics in range improves shelf stability and repeatable quality across batches.
Sourcing Seeds and Final Buyer Tips
C-Fourty is attributed to Legacy Leaf Seed Co., and availability may swing between limited drops and periodic restocks. Boutique breeders commonly release both regular and feminized seeds; check the breeder’s announcements for lot sizes, release windows, and testing notes. Authentic genetics are best sourced directly from the breeder or verified partners to avoid mislabeled seed.
When selecting phenotypes, prioritize vigor, mold resistance, and aroma intensity in early flower. Keep detailed logs on plant height, internode spacing, and resin onset; plants that show early trichome density by week 4 of 12/12 often finish strongest. If producing extracts, test wash yields from fresh-frozen material to identify resin that releases well under your process.
Buyers of finished flower should look for tight, well-formed buds with intact trichome heads and a clear, layered aroma on the grind. Avoid product that smells grassy or sharp-ammonia, signs of poor dry or cure. When in doubt, ask for harvest date, storage conditions, and lab data that include both cannabinoids and total terpene percentage.
