Written by Ad OpsIntroduction
Mazar x Great White Shark is a resin-forward, mostly indica hybrid created by World of Seeds Bank. It marries the rugged Afghan hash-plant heritage of Mazar with the award-winning potency of Great White Shark. The result is a strain prized by growers for its dense, sugary colas and by consumers for its soothing yet euphoric body effects. In markets where lab testing is common, indica-leaning hybrids like this typically show THC in the high teens to low 20s, and Mazar x Great White Shark fits that profile.
This cultivar has built a reputation for reliability and depth of character. It delivers a classic old-world aroma of hash, earth, and incense amplified by modern sweet-skunk brightness. The balance makes it approachable for evening relaxation while remaining functional in low to moderate doses. For cultivators, it offers predictable structure, manageable stretch, and robust resin production that rewards careful environmental control.
Because it is mostly indica, Mazar x Great White Shark tends to finish relatively quickly, often within 8 to 9 weeks of flowering indoors. Its structure and tight bud formation make airflow and humidity management critical in mid to late bloom. With proper training and VPD control, indoor yields can be excellent for its class. Outdoor growers in dry, temperate climates can also achieve impressive harvests due to its hash-plant resilience.
History and Breeding Origins
World of Seeds Bank developed Mazar x Great White Shark to combine two proven classics into one production-friendly hybrid. Mazar brings Afghan landrace traits known for resin density and compact growth, while Great White Shark contributes potency and a brighter terpene edge from the White family. This pairing was designed to deliver stable yields and a familiar indica experience with a modern twist. The breeder's selection focused on vigor, resin coverage, and predictable flowering time.
Mazar’s lineage traces back to the Mazar-i-Sharif region of Afghanistan, a storied source of hash plants cultivated for generations. These plants are durable, compact, and renowned for thick trichome blankets that press well. Great White Shark, sometimes nicknamed "Peacemaker," rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a trophy-winning hybrid known for heavy-hitting sedation. By blending these lines, World of Seeds Bank created a cultivar that feels at once familiar and updated.
Commercial catalogs began listing Mazar x Great White Shark in the late 2000s to early 2010s, fitting the era’s demand for indica-dominant, resinous varieties that worked well indoors. Over time, it earned a reputation among home growers for consistency in small tents and modest feeding requirements. Reports from growers often mention a modest stretch and fast onset of resin formation by week three of bloom. These traits align with the breeding goal of a push-button indica-dominant that meets the needs of both personal and small-scale production grows.
Today, Mazar x Great White Shark remains a staple recommendation for those seeking a classic body-forward hybrid with manageable cultivation. Its historical roots in Afghan landraces and the White family give it credibility among connoisseurs. Meanwhile, its predictable structure and flowering window make it user-friendly for novice cultivators. This balance of heritage and practicality defines its enduring appeal.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
Mazar x Great White Shark is a cross of Mazar (Afghan indica) and Great White Shark (a mostly indica hybrid from the White family). Mazar contributes short internodes, thick petioles, and early trichome density. Great White Shark adds potency, a slightly larger frame, and a brighter, skunky-citrus top note. The overall result skews indica in structure and effect, consistent with the breeder’s description of mostly indica heritage.
On the chemical side, this cross tends to inherit myrcene dominance and caryophyllene presence from the Afghan side, with limonene and humulene contributions boosting the aromatic complexity. White-family hybrids are known for strong resin heads and vigorous calyx expansion, which can be seen in this cultivar by weeks five to seven of bloom. Expect a chemistry profile that clusters around THC with low to trace CBD, typical of modern indica-leaning markets. Minor cannabinoids like CBG are present in small amounts that can still modulate the experience.
From a horticultural standpoint, the cross typically displays a moderate stretch factor of 1.2x to 1.5x after the flip to 12/12. Leaf morphology often shows broad-fingered fans that are easy to manage with selective defoliation. The plant’s apical dominance makes it respond well to topping and low-stress training, preventing cola stacking that can invite humidity issues. Strong lateral branching supports SCROG layouts where bud sites can be evenly distributed.
Phenotypically, growers commonly report two dominant leanings within the cross: a shorter, Mazar-leaning pheno with tighter nodal spacing, and a slightly taller, Great White Shark-leaning pheno with more pronounced skunk-citrus. Both phenotypes maintain the indica-dominant feel, but the taller type can deliver higher yields under higher PPFD and CO2. Tighter phenos excel in smaller spaces and are easier to dry without botrytis risk. Either way, inheritance favors resin-heavy, dense flowers that dry with appealing bag appeal.
Appearance and Morphology
Mazar x Great White Shark typically produces dense, golf-ball to soda-can shaped colas with a frosty, crystalline sheen. Buds are often olive to forest green with copper to amber pistils that darken late in flower. Sugar leaves can show a light dusting of trichomes that makes trim material valuable for hash. Under magnification, capitate-stalked trichomes are abundant and well-formed, a hallmark of its hash-plant heritage.
The plant structure is compact to medium in height, usually finishing 80 to 120 cm indoors without heavy training. Internodal spacing is short to moderate, allowing for easy canopy management. Leaves are broad, with 7 to 9-finger fans being common and a deep green color when nitrogen and magnesium are well-balanced. Stems are sturdy enough to hold weight, though trellising prevents late-flower lean.
As it matures, expect visible calyx stacking beginning around week four to five of bloom. The resin layer thickens quickly between weeks five and seven, often prompting growers to reduce humidity preemptively. By harvest, colas can become quite hard, raising the need for strategic defoliation to keep airflow moving. Visual maturity cues include pistil recession and a shift in trichome color to milky with some amber.
Aroma Profile
The aroma of Mazar x Great White Shark blends classic Afghan hash-plant notes with a sweet-skunky bite. Early in flower, the scent leans earthy and woody, reminiscent of cedar, dried herbs, and incense. As resin production increases, sweeter layers emerge, suggesting citrus peel and faint tropical fruit. Some phenos carry a subtle peppery edge when rubbed.
Dominant terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene often guide the nose, delivering musky, herbal depth and a warm spice accent. Limonene can brighten the profile with citrus pith and a hint of sweetness, while humulene adds a lightly bitter, hoppy facet. Together, these compounds create an aroma that is comforting and nostalgic yet modern enough to be memorable. The scent intensifies after cure as chlorophyll dissipates and terpenes round off.
In well-sealed jars, the headspace can measure strong within days, so odor control is essential in the garden. Carbon filters rated for the grow space’s total CFM, doubled for safety, help keep the bouquet contained. During trimming, expect a burst of sharp skunk and hash that can linger on tools and gloves. Proper storage at 55 to 62% RH preserves the bouquet for months.
Flavor Profile
On the palate, Mazar x Great White Shark delivers a dense, hash-forward flavor with sweet, skunky overlays. The initial impression is earthy and resinous, often described as incense-like with a faint sandalwood finish. As the session continues, brighter hints of citrus and herbal spice emerge, reflecting limonene and caryophyllene. The aftertaste is clean, slightly peppery, and satisfying.
Vaporization highlights its layered sweetness and reduces harshness, making the woodsy-spicy complexity more apparent. When combusted, it can present a thicker mouthfeel, with a classic Afghan hash tone and a quick ramp of skunky brightness on exhale. Well-cured samples show more pronounced citrus and clove-like spice, especially after six to eight weeks of jar cure. Poorly dried samples can taste grassy until the cure has time to mature.
Concentrates from this cultivar, especially ice-water hash or rosin, tend to amplify the incense and spice side of the profile. The resin heads are sturdy and release aromatic oils readily when pressed at moderate temperatures. Flavor retention is best at lower press ranges, such as 82 to 93°C, where the sweet-skunk aromatics are preserved. Many enthusiasts describe the rosin as hash-forward with a pleasing citrus tail.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
As a mostly indica hybrid bred for resin density, Mazar x Great White Shark commonly tests in the THC-forward range. In contemporary legal markets, indica-leaning hybrids often show THC between 16 and 22% by weight, and this cultivar typically falls within that band. Select phenotypes grown under optimized conditions and high PPFD can crest into the low 20s. CBD generally remains low, often at or below 0.6%, with most samples closer to trace levels.
Minor cannabinoids provide nuance even at small percentages. CBG may appear around 0.2 to 1.2%, while CBC and THCV are usually present in trace quantities. These compounds interact with the overall effect profile and can subtly influence perceived clarity or pressure behind the eyes. While THC is the driver, the ensemble of minor cannabinoids and terpenes shapes the subjective experience.
For consumers, the potency reads as confidently strong yet controllable with modest dosing. A 0.05 to 0.10 gram inhalation session can be sufficient for many, with onset within minutes and peak effects around 30 to 45 minutes. Tolerance, metabolism, and set-and-setting modulate the outcome significantly. Newer users may prefer microdoses of 1 to 2 mg THC if using oral formats to gauge response.
Producers targeting specific potency brackets can leverage environmental enrichment. Supplementing CO2 to 1000 to 1200 ppm alongside 700 to 900 µmol/m²/s PPFD routinely increases biomass and resin output by 10 to 20% in controlled studies. That said, potency plateaus if nutrition, root health, and VPD are not optimized. Consistency in harvest window and curing practices often has as much impact on perceived strength as raw THC percentage.
Terpene Profile and Chemistry
Mazar x Great White Shark leans toward a myrcene- and caryophyllene-forward terpene spectrum, consistent with its Afghan and White-family ancestry. Well-grown flowers commonly show total terpene content in the 1.5 to 3.0% range by weight. Myrcene frequently leads at roughly 0.5 to 1.0%, supported by caryophyllene around 0.3 to 0.8%. Limonene, humulene, and pinene contribute in the 0.1 to 0.5% brackets, with linalool sometimes detectable at 0.05 to 0.2%.
Myrcene imparts the musky, herbal base and is associated with the relaxed, body-forward character many users report. Beta-caryophyllene adds warm spice and modulates inflammation via CB2 receptor activity, a unique trait among major terpenes. Limonene lends citrus brightness and may elevate mood perception in some individuals. Humulene introduces subtle woody bitterness and can balance sweetness in the aroma.
Pinene, while secondary here, can contribute to a sense of alertness in the headspace, preventing the effect from becoming too foggy at low doses. Linalool’s floral calm may support the cultivar’s reputation for evening use without anxiety in many users. The net effect of these terpenes is a rounded, comforting bouquet that stacks well with THC’s primary action. Synergy between caryophyllene and myrcene often underpins the signature hash-wood-spice profile.
From a production standpoint, terpene retention depends on careful drying and curing. High temperatures and rapid dry cycles can strip monoterpenes like myrcene and limonene first, dulling complexity. A slow dry at 18 to 20°C and 55 to 60% RH for 10 to 14 days preserves a higher fraction of volatile compounds. Post-cure storage at 62% RH in airtight glass maintains chemistry and reduces oxidative loss over time.
Experiential Effects and Onset
Most users describe Mazar x Great White Shark as a body-forward, calming strain with a gentle lift in mood. Onset for inhaled routes is rapid, often noticeable within 2 to 5 minutes, with peak intensity at 30 to 45 minutes. The headspace is clear to mildly hazy at small doses and becomes more sedative with higher intake. The body feel can progress from tension relief to deep relaxation and couchlock.
Subjective reports commonly cite stress relief and a soft, positive mental tone without raciness. Many find it suitable for evening socializing at low doses due to its warm, mellow character. At higher doses, it leans into sleep support and pain relief but can reduce motivation to engage in complex tasks. Music, films, or light conversation tend to pair well with the experience.
In terms of duration, inhale-based sessions last 2 to 3 hours for most, with residual relaxation lingering beyond that. Edible formats extend the time course substantially, peaking around 2 hours and lasting 4 to 8 hours depending on dose. Users sensitive to THC may prefer to keep edible doses at 2.5 to 5 mg to avoid over-sedation. Hydration and a small snack can mitigate dry mouth and uneasy stomach sensations.
Adverse effects are generally mild but can include dry eyes, dry mouth, and short-term memory impairment. Rarely, susceptible individuals may experience lightheadedness if overconsumed or if standing quickly after long periods of sitting. As with any potent indica-leaning hybrid, patience with dosing prevents discomfort. A calm environment enhances the strain’s soothing qualities.
Potential Medical Applications
The indica-leaning nature of Mazar x Great White Shark suggests several potential therapeutic applications reported by patients. Pain relief is a common theme, especially for musculoskeletal discomfort and tension headaches. The caryophyllene content may complement THC’s analgesic action via CB2 pathways. Many users also report relief from stress and generalized anxiety at modest doses.
Sleep support is another frequent application due to the sedative body feel at medium to higher doses. Anecdotal feedback often notes improved sleep latency after evening use, especially when edibles are timed 1 to 2 hours before bed. The myrcene-forward terpene profile is associated with muscle relaxation, which can further promote rest. Excess dosing, however, can lead to grogginess the next morning.
Appetite stimulation is a probable benefit in individuals experiencing reduced appetite from stress or certain treatments. Patients managing nausea sometimes find inhalation helpful for rapid relief. For mood, the limonene lift at low doses can be beneficial, though sensitive individuals should watch for dose-dependent sedation. Strain response varies, so small titrated doses are advised for new users.
It is important to note that clinical evidence for strain-specific outcomes remains limited, and individual biochemistry matters. Total THC, terpene composition, delivery method, and timing significantly affect results. Patients should consult healthcare providers, especially when combining cannabis with other medications. Tracking responses in a symptom diary can help optimize dosing strategies over time.
Cultivation Guide: Indoors and Outdoors
Mazar x Great White Shark is well-suited to indoor grows due to its compact structure and moderate stretch. It thrives in stable, controlled environments where its dense flowers can be managed with airflow and humidity control. Indoors, plan for a flowering time of roughly 56 to 63 days, depending on phenotype and target trichome maturity. Growers regularly report indoor yields in the range of 450 to 600 g/m² under high-intensity lighting with dialed-in parameters.
Germination is straightforward, with healthy seeds typically showing 90%+ success under proper conditions. Use a clean, lightly moistened medium and maintain 24 to 26°C with high humidity for sprouting. Seedlings prefer gentle light at 200 to 300 µmol/m²/s and a pH of 6.2 to 6.5 in soil or 5.8 to 6.0 in coco/hydro. Keep EC low at 0.6 to 0.8 to avoid overfeeding early on.
Vegetative growth is compact and responsive to training. Topping at the 5th node followed by low-stress training promotes multiple strong tops and a flatter canopy. SCROG works exceptionally well; set a trellis with 5 to 8 cm squares and fill 70 to 80% of the net before flip. Alternatively, a SOG approach with 16 to 25 plants/m² in 3 to 5 L containers can accelerate turnover if running rooted clones.
Environmental targets in veg include 24 to 26°C daytime temperatures and 60 to 65% RH, with a VPD around 0.8 to 1.1 kPa. Provide 400 to 600 µmol/m²/s of PPFD to drive sturdy growth without excessive internodal elongation. In flower, step up to 700 to 900 µmol/m²/s PPFD if CO2 is supplemented to 1000 to 1200 ppm; otherwise, 600 to 800 µmol/m²/s is a conservative range. Aim for a DLI of 35 to 45 mol/m²/day to support top-end yields.
Nutritionally, keep N moderate and ensure adequate Ca and Mg, especially in coco. In veg, an EC of 1.2 to 1.6 is generally safe, rising to 1.6 to 2.2 in mid bloom as demand increases. Maintain pH at 6.2 to 6.8 in soil and 5.8 to 6.2 in hydro/coco for optimal nutrient availability. A bloom ratio with elevated P and K from weeks 4 to 7 can enhance bud density, but avoid overdoing PK boosters to prevent salt buildup.
Water management is key due to the cultivar’s dense flowers. Water to 10 to 20% runoff in container grows to prevent salt accumulation, and allow a dryback that maintains root-zone oxygen. Root-zone temperatures near 20 to 22°C encourage vigorous uptake and healthy microbial life. In living soils, top-dressing with balanced amendments at flip and week three can sustain steady nutrition without spikes.
Airflow and canopy management prevent microclimates that invite botrytis. Keep canopy airspeed around 0.5 to 1.0 m/s using oscillating fans, and defoliate strategically around day 21 and day 42 of flower. Removing 15 to 20% of large fan leaves per session opens the canopy without over-stressing plants. Lollipopping the lower third helps channel energy into top colas and reduces larf.
Expect a stretch of 1.2x to 1.5x during the first two weeks after flip, manageable with topping and netting. The apical dominance makes it easy to shape into an even plane for uniform light distribution. Keep RH at 45 to 50% in weeks 4 to 7 and lower to 40 to 45% late in bloom as buds harden. Night temperatures of 18 to 20°C help maintain color and resin without slowing metabolism excessively.
For outdoor cultivation, choose a site with ample sun and good airflow. The cultivar performs best in temperate to Mediterranean climates where late-season humidity is manageable. In-ground plants can reach 1.5 to 2.0 meters with adequate root space and nutrition. Outdoor yields of 700 to 1200 g per plant are achievable in optimal conditions with early starts and proper training.
Pest and disease management should be proactive. Implement an integrated pest management plan with weekly scouting and preventive sprays like sulfur or potassium bicarbonate in veg for powdery mildew avoidance. Beneficial insects such as predatory mites can keep spider mites and thrips in check before populations explode. Sanitation, tool sterilization, and quarantine of new clones are foundational practices for clean gardens.
CO2 enrichment indoors can increase yield by 10 to 20% when combined with strong lighting and correct VPD. However, without tuning environment and nutrition, CO2 alone offers limited gains. Keep intake and exhaust sized appropriately to maintain stable temperatures and replenish fresh air if not running sealed. Dehumidification capacity should be sized to remove 3 to 5 liters per day per square meter during peak transpiration in late flower.
As harvest approaches, monitor trichomes rather than relying solely on the calendar. Target a mix of mostly cloudy with 5 to 10% amber for a balanced effect, or 20 to 30% amber for heavier sedation. Pistil color alone is not reliable, but combined with calyx swelling and terpene intensity, it helps confirm readiness. Avoid extending too long beyond peak, as terpenes can oxidize and the high can become flatter.
Harvest, Curing, and Post-Processing
Begin by reducing nitrogen in the last 10 to 14 days and consider a gentle flush if your system calls for it. Keep environmental stress minimal to avoid foxtailing or stress responses that alter resin quality. Many growers stage darkness for 24 to 36 hours before chop, though the impact is debated; more critical is maintaining stable temperature and humidity. Harvest whole plants or large branches to facilitate a slower, more even dry.
Dry in the dark at 18 to 20°C and 55 to 60% RH for 10 to 14 days. Gentle air circulation without directly blowing on flowers prevents case-hardening and preserves volatiles. Stems should snap rather than bend when the outer moisture has equalized. Overly rapid drying risks terpene loss and harsher smoke.
Trim when the flowers feel dry on the outside but still retain slight internal spring. For hand trimming, use clean, alcohol-wiped scissors and preserve trichomes by minimizing handling. Collect sugar-leaf trim for ice-water hash or rosin; this cultivar’s resin heads often wash well. Expect attractive bag appeal with minimal effort thanks to dense calyxes and high trichome coverage.
Cure in airtight glass at 62% RH, burping daily for the first 7 to 10 days, then weekly for 3 to 6 weeks. The cure smooths chlorophyll notes and rounds off the sweet-skunk nose. Water activity between 0.55 and 0.65 is ideal for long-term storage, whereas mold risk increases above 0.70. Properly cured flower maintains its terpene profile for months when stored cool and dark.
For concentrates, consider cold-cure rosin techniques to preserve aromatics. Press at moderate temps (82 to 93°C) and refine with jar curing at room temperature for a week. Ice-water hash yields can be optimized by careful selection of micron bags, often favoring 90 to 120 µm for full-melt potential. The cultivar’s thick resin heads make it a versatile starting material for multiple extraction styles.
Phenotype Variations and Chemotype Expectations
Within Mazar x Great White Shark, growers frequently encounter two notable phenotype tendencies. One is the compact, Mazar-leaning type with minimal stretch, tighter internodes, and a heavier incense-hash aroma. The other is a slightly taller, Great White Shark-leaning type with more skunky-citrus brightness and a marginally higher yield ceiling. Both maintain indica-dominant effects but differ subtly in headspace clarity and flavor.
Chemotypically, expect THC-dominant profiles with low CBD across phenotypes. Total terpene content usually ranges from 1.5 to 3.0%, with myrcene and caryophyllene leading in most selections. Limonene shifts more prominently in the Shark-leaning plants, which can add an uplift in mood at light doses. Minor cannabinoids like CBG are typically modest but can be higher in certain individuals.
For production planning, it can be helpful to run a small pheno hunt of 6 to 12 plants to observe structure, bloom time, and terpene expression. Select for lateral branching that fills a net cleanly and resin that stacks early, indicating a robust finish. Keep cuttings of top contenders and compare cured flower over a 4 to 8-week window for flavor stability. Uniformity is good for a hybrid, but selection further tightens your canopy’s behavior.
Consumer Tips, Tolerance, and Safety
If you are new to indica-leaning hybrids, start low and go slow. For inhalation, a single small puff or two can be enough to gauge potency, especially with THC around 16 to 22%. For edibles, 2.5 to 5 mg THC is a conservative starting point that minimizes adverse effects. Wait at least two hours before redosing in edible form to avoid stacking.
Set and setting influence the experience significantly. A calm environment, hydration, and a light snack help prevent lightheadedness or uneasy stomach sensations. If you feel too sedated, gentle movement and hydration can help, as can a low-dose CBD product for some individuals. Avoid mixing with alcohol or sedating medications unless advised by a healthcare professional.
For storage, keep flower in airtight jars at 55 to 62% RH, ideally in the dark at 15 to 20°C. Avoid frequent jar opening if you want to preserve terpenes over time. If odor control is a priority, carbon-lined containers can help without compressing buds. Always follow local laws and regulations regarding possession and use.
Comparisons to Parent Strains and Similar Cultivars
Compared to Mazar, this cross retains the dense hash-plant bud structure and early resin ramp but adds a brighter skunky-citrus top note. The effect remains body-forward and calming, yet the Shark influence gives a slightly more expansive headspace at light doses. Flowering times are similar, with both tending to finish in about 8 to 9 weeks indoors. Mazar x Great White Shark often yields slightly better under high-intensity lighting due to improved lateral development.
Relative to Great White Shark, the cross reins in stretch and boosts density, producing more compact colas. The aroma is less overtly skunky and more balanced by woodsy incense. Effects lean more sedative and grounding than classic Shark at higher doses, aligning it more closely with evening-use preferences. Many growers find it easier to manage in small spaces due to shorter internodes.
Comparable cultivars include White Rhino, Critical Mass, and Afghan Kush hybrids that emphasize resin and body relief. White Rhino shares a dense structure and strong sedation, while Critical Mass rivals yield but can be more susceptible to mold if mismanaged. Afghan Kush crosses align on flavor and structure but may lack the skunky sweet top note present here. For those seeking the middle ground between classic hash-plant and modern skunk, Mazar x Great White Shark sits squarely in the sweet spot.
Conclusion
Mazar x Great White Shark, bred by World of Seeds Bank, is a dependable, mostly indica hybrid that blends heritage character with modern performance. Its Afghan roots bring structure and resin, while the White-family influence adds potency and a brighter aromatic edge. The result is a cultivar that satisfies both connoisseurs of old-world hash profiles and modern consumers seeking reliable relaxation.
In the garden, it rewards growers who master airflow, humidity, and nutrition, paying back with dense, frosty colas in 56 to 63 days. On the palate and in the body, it is comforting, grounded, and pleasantly uplifting at modest doses. Whether you are seeking evening calm, a productive indoor run, or resin-rich material for concentrates, Mazar x Great White Shark delivers with consistency and style.
