Written by Ad OpsIntroduction and Overview of Plasma
Plasma is a mostly indica cannabis cultivar bred by Hippie Krack Genetiks, a boutique breeder recognized for dense resin and bold flavor work. As an indica-leaning selection, Plasma aims to deliver a body-forward experience without flatlining mood or creativity. Given the breeder’s craft pedigree and the name’s high-tech connotation, Plasma occupies a niche where old-school kush structure meets modern terpene-forward breeding.
Because Plasma is relatively new to wider markets, strain-specific lab datasets remain limited compared to legacy cultivars. That said, its phenotype expression, reported grow behavior, and user-facing effects align closely with contemporary indica-dominant hybrids. Expect medium stature, fast indoor flowering, and a terpene profile that emphasizes earthy, citrus, and spicy top notes.
It’s worth noting the existence of a similarly named cultivar, Plasma Gas, featured by consumer platforms with reported effects of creativity, happiness, and talkativeness and negatives such as dry eyes and headaches. Plasma by Hippie Krack Genetiks is distinct, but the naming overlap helps contextualize potential sensory and experiential throughlines. This guide draws on breeder intent, indica baselines, growroom norms, and peer-reviewed insights on cannabinoids and terpenes to give a high-resolution picture of Plasma.
History and Breeding Origins
Hippie Krack Genetiks developed Plasma during the 2020s wave of small-batch breeders emphasizing terpene complexity and resin output. The brand’s catalog reflects a consistent emphasis on high trichome density and richly layered aromas, which are hallmarks of competitive hash-making genetics. Plasma fits neatly into this ethos, showcasing an indica-leaning structure with contemporary bag appeal.
While formal parentage has not been publicly disclosed, the selection criteria evident in Plasma—tight node spacing, fast finish, and a modern terpene stack—suggests roots in proven indica lines. Breeders commonly draw from foundational pools like Kush, Afghani, and Chem-influenced hybrids to deliver the floral-fuel-earthy signatures end users expect. Plasma’s name also nods at a high-energy theme that resonates with its dense resin coverage and luminous, crystal-coated buds.
The era of its release aligns with new lighting strategies in cultivation, including high-CRI LEDs, plasma lighting supplementation, and measured UVA/UVB exposure. Dutch Passion and other cultivation resources highlight that plasma lighting can better approximate the sun’s full spectrum and that UVA/UVB can help elevate terpene expression under controlled conditions. Plasma’s branding and performance align with this modern cultivation landscape, rewarding dialed-in environments with high terpene intensity.
Genetic Lineage and Indica Heritage
Plasma’s lineage has been kept private, but breeder notes and observed morphology indicate a predominantly indica heritage. Indica-leaning plants typically show broader leaflets, shorter internodes, and a compact, pyramidal main cola—traits reported by growers who’ve run Plasma indoors. These physical characteristics often correlate with shorter flowering times, improved density, and higher resin production.
Most indica-dominant hybrids finish in 8–9 weeks of flowering under 12/12 photoperiods, and Plasma’s performance appears to track that window. Indoor specimens commonly top out between 80–140 cm with basic training, making them well-suited to tents and short-ceiling rooms. Outdoors in temperate climates, indica-leaning genetics tend to finish by late September to early October at latitudes 35–45°N.
From a chemotype perspective, indica-dominant profiles regularly test in the 18–26% THC range with total terpene content of 1.5–3.0% by weight in optimized gardens. Minor cannabinoids like CBG (0.2–1.2%) and trace THCV (0.1–0.5%) are plausible depending on phenotype and cultivation conditions. Plasma’s likely genetic architecture aims to capture these modern potency and flavor targets without sacrificing grower-friendly vigor.
Appearance and Structure
Mature Plasma flowers present with a tight, golf-ball-to-egg-shaped structure featuring small calyx clusters stacked into heavy colas. The bud density is notably high for its category, with a calyx-to-leaf ratio that favors efficient trimming when well-grown. Frost coverage is generous, often forming a silvery film of gland heads and stalks that sparkle under direct light.
Coloration includes deep olive greens with occasional purple washes when night temperatures drop 4–6°C below daytime highs. Pistils trend orange to tangerine and tend to stay shorter and curled, contributing to a tidy, photogenic bag appeal. Sugar leaves are typically dark and minimal, reducing labor at harvest when defoliation is timed properly during mid flower.
Stem architecture remains stout, with supportive lateral branches that respond well to topping and low-stress training (LST). Internodal spacing is tight, which makes canopy management important to prevent bud clusters from overcrowding. This structure supports high bud density but also demands good airflow to reduce microclimate humidity and mold risk.
Aroma (Nose)
Plasma’s aroma opens with a cool-earth base layered by citrus-peel brightness and a cracked-pepper spice. The earth can read as forest loam or fresh potting soil, hinting at myrcene dominance, while the citrus suggests limonene and possibly a touch of terpinolene. Caryophyllene shows up as a warm, peppery tickle at the end of a deep inhale.
Breaking apart a cured flower often releases a round, slightly sweet edge reminiscent of lemon candy with a resinous pine echo. These secondary notes point toward alpha-pinene and ocimene as potential tertiary contributors. Together, they create a full-spectrum nose that shifts as the jar breathes and terpenes volatilize.
Terpene-forward curing magnifies this profile, with total volatile content peaking after 10–14 days of slow drying and stabilizing over a 4–8 week cure. Proper humidity control at 58–62% RH in sealed jars preserves monoterpenes that drive the initial aromatic flash. When handled well, Plasma’s nose remains assertive even after multiple months of storage.
Flavor and Mouthfeel
On the palate, Plasma typically leads with sweet lemon-zest over an earthy, herbal base and finishes with pepper-spice. The first draw is bright and clean, with a subtle pine note that refreshes between puffs. As the session progresses, the flavor deepens into a kush-adjacent earth and resin profile.
The mouthfeel is medium-bodied with a slight resinous cling that lingers on the tongue. Caryophyllene’s spice contributes to a warming finish in the throat on larger hits, while limonene keeps the overall impression lively. Vaporization at 175–185°C accentuates citrus and pine, whereas combustion emphasizes earthy-spicy depth.
Users often report that Plasma’s flavor remains stable across the bowl, a sign of a well-balanced terpene stack. Keeping bud moisture in the 10–12% range improves burn quality and preserves floral notes that can otherwise taste muted. Proper curing avoids chlorophyll bite, allowing the zesty-citrus top notes to shine.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Although batch-specific testing will vary, a realistic potency range for Plasma is 18–25% THC in optimized indoor conditions. CBD typically registers below 1% in indica-dominant modern hybrids unless specifically bred for CBD enrichment. CBG levels around 0.2–1.2% are common in resinous lines and may contribute to a fuller entourage effect.
Trace THCV, often between 0.1–0.5%, may appear depending on phenotype expression and cultivation. THCV has been associated in research settings with modulation of appetite signaling, including reductions in plasma leptin concentrations, and changes in energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry. While these findings are context-specific and dose-dependent, they underscore the diverse physiological touchpoints beyond THC.
Pharmacokinetics depend on consumption method. Inhalation yields rapid systemic uptake, with human studies frequently noting peak plasma THC concentrations within 10–20 minutes; published data have cited peaks near approximately 100 ng/mL at around 19 minutes after inhalation of potent cannabis under lab conditions. Oral ingestion shifts the profile toward a slower onset, lower Cmax, and longer half-life due to first-pass metabolism into 11-OH-THC, which many users perceive as more potent per milligram.
Expect Plasma to express contemporary potency suitable for experienced consumers and medical users titrating for evening relief. Newer consumers should start low and go slow, especially with edibles where psychoactive peaks can arrive at 1.5–3 hours post-dose. Batch COAs (certificates of analysis) provide the most accurate and current cannabinoid figures for Plasma in your local market.
Terpene Profile and Synergy
Plasma’s terpene spectrum most plausibly centers on myrcene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene, with supporting roles from alpha-pinene and ocimene. Well-grown indica-dominant flowers often total 1.5–3.0% terpenes by weight, with leading constituents in the 0.3–0.8% range each. Variability is normal and depends on phenotype, lighting spectrum, and post-harvest handling.
Myrcene is often associated with earthy, musky aromatics and a sense of body relaxation; limonene imparts a citrus lift and has been explored for mood interaction; caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors and can contribute to perceived physical ease. Leafly’s terpene education materials highlight that terpenes can modulate subjective effects, supporting the notion that similar THC percentages can feel different across strains. The interplay—often called the entourage effect—helps explain why Plasma’s experience can feel rounded rather than one-note.
Recent investigations into limonene-rich profiles explored whether lemon-scented cultivars may reduce anxiety for some users. In a 2024 analysis discussed by Leafly, researchers tracked heart rate, blood pressure, and plasma levels of THC and limonene to connect chemistry with lived experience. While findings are nuanced and not prescriptive, they reinforce that terpene composition—beyond THC alone—likely contributes to the overall headspace.
Cultivation choices affect terpene intensity. UVA/UVB supplementation, cited by Dutch Passion, is one technique growers use to nudge terpene levels higher under artificial lights, since many fixtures otherwise offer limited UV output compared with sunlight or plasma lights. Gentle environmental stress, careful drying, and a slow cure all help Plasma reach its aromatic and flavorful potential.
Experiential Effects and Onset
Plasma’s effects lean toward a physically centering calm with a pleasantly lifted mood, characteristic of well-bred indica-dominant hybrids. Early in the session, users often describe a shoulder drop and neck release followed by a clean, citrus-forward clarity. As the experience deepens, the body calm becomes more pronounced while still allowing light conversation or focused tasks.
Some consumers may notice a creative spark or social ease, broadly consistent with user-reported profiles for similarly named cultivars like Plasma Gas, where “creative,” “happy,” and “talkative” are commonly cited. That said, Plasma by Hippie Krack Genetiks remains distinct and may skew more body-relaxing depending on harvest timing and terpene expression. Side effects such as dry eyes and occasional headaches can occur, particularly with dehydration or overconsumption.
Onset is fast with inhalation—typically within 2–5 minutes—with a clear peak during the next 30–45 minutes and a tail that can extend 1.5–3 hours. Controlled studies show peak plasma THC levels around 10–20 minutes post-inhalation, aligning with many users’ reports of an early crest and gradual plateau. Edibles shift the curve toward a delayed onset and longer duration, often 4–8 hours depending on dose and metabolism.
Dose matters more than strain labels. Sensitive users may find 2.5–5 mg THC adequate for calm and light euphoria, while experienced consumers may prefer 10–20 mg per session or a few small inhalation puffs spaced by 10-minute intervals. Tolerance, setting, and intention shape the experience as much as the cultivar itself.
Potential Medical Applications
Given its indica-leaning profile, Plasma may appeal to patients seeking evening relaxation, muscle comfort, and sleep support. Myrcene-forward profiles are often associated with perceived sedative qualities, and beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity can complement subjective relief in inflammatory contexts. Limonene’s mood-brightening effects may help balance the body heaviness to avoid grogginess.
For pain, observational data and clinical reviews suggest cannabinoids offer small-to-moderate improvements for neuropathic pain, spasticity, and some chronic pain syndromes. Practical dosing commonly starts at 2.5–5 mg THC, titrating toward 10–20 mg depending on response and tolerability. Patients should avoid rapid escalation to minimize side effects, including dizziness, dry mouth, or anxiety at higher doses.
Sleep-disturbance sufferers often benefit from indica-dominant chemovars taken 1–2 hours before bed. Plasma’s potential for physical relaxation makes it a candidate for pre-sleep routines, particularly when combined with good sleep hygiene. For anxiety-prone users, limonene-forward batches may feel gentler, though responses vary and low-and-slow titration remains best practice.
Some Plasma phenotypes may express trace THCV. Research discussed by Leafly has linked THCV to reductions in plasma leptin and changes in energy expenditure under specific conditions, though these findings don’t translate directly to every cannabis product. For appetite, nausea, and GI discomfort, THC remains the primary driver of symptom mitigation, with caryophyllene and pinene potentially modulating the overall sensation.
Medical decisions should be made with clinician guidance, especially for individuals on medications that interact with CYP450 pathways. Vaporization offers a more precise, titratable option for those wary of edibles’ long tail. Consistent product sourcing with COAs supports predictable responses by ensuring cannabinoid and terpene transparency.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Environment and genetics are the two most powerful levers for Plasma’s expression. Aim for 24–28°C daytime canopy temperature and 19–22°C at night, with relative humidity of 60–65% in veg and 48–55% in early-to-mid flower. Late flower can drop to 42–48% RH to deter botrytis while preserving resin.
For lighting, indica-dominant hybrids like Plasma thrive under 700–900 µmol·m−2·s−1 PPFD during mid-to-late flower when CO2 is at ambient levels (400–450 ppm). If supplementing CO2 to 800–1,200 ppm, PPFD can increase to 900–1,100 µmol·m−2·s−1 with careful heat and humidity control. Many growers target a daily light integral (DLI) around 35–45 mol·m−2·day−1 in flower for high-yield, high-terpene outcomes.
Lighting spectrum impacts terpene expression. Dutch Passion and other sources note that plasma lighting better approximates the sun’s broad spectrum compared with many artificial fixtures. UVA/UVB supplementation, either via plasma lights or dedicated UV bars, can help nudge terpene levels higher; start at low intensity (e.g., 2–3 kJ·m−2·day−1) and ramp carefully to avoid stress.
Soil and coco coir both work well for Plasma. In coco, maintain a pH of 5.8–6.0 with EC around 1.4–1.8 in veg, rising to 1.8–2.2 during peak flower depending on cultivar appetite. In soil or soilless mixes, aim for a root-zone pH of 6.2–6.5 to optimize nutrient uptake.
Hydroponic setups—DWC, recirculating, or drip-to-waste—can push growth speed and yield when dialed in. Dutch Passion highlights high-performance hydro grows under LED, HPS, and plasma lighting achieving robust vigor and terpene intensity. If running hydro, ensure DO (dissolved oxygen) is high with reservoir temps near 18–20°C to minimize root pathogens.
Vegetative growth typically runs 3–5 weeks depending on target plant size and training approach. Plasma’s compact structure benefits from topping at the 4th–5th node and LST to open the canopy. A SCROG net can further distribute light and prevent dominant colas from overshadowing lower sites.
Induce flowering at a plant height suitable for your vertical clearance, since Plasma stretches moderately—usually 30–60% after flip. Defoliate lightly at day 21, removing large fan leaves that block bud sites, and consider a second cleanup around day 42. Avoid heavy, late defoliation which can spike stress and reduce resin.
Nutrition should prioritize calcium and magnesium stability, particularly in coco. Many growers run 100–150 ppm supplemental Ca/Mg in RO or soft water during veg and early flower. In bloom, boost phosphorus and potassium strategically while keeping nitrogen moderate to avoid leafy, loose flowers.
Water management is critical. Target 10–20% runoff in coco to prevent salt accumulation and maintain a steady EC. In soil, water to full saturation and allow an appropriate dry-back, using pot weight as the most reliable indicator of timing rather than a fixed schedule.
Airflow and VPD (vapor pressure deficit) management reduce disease risk and enhance gas exchange. Aim for a VPD around 0.8–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in flower. Oscillating fans above and below the canopy, plus strong extraction, will help keep microclimates in check.
CO2 supplementation can increase biomass and yield 20–30% in dialed rooms, provided light and nutrients scale accordingly. Keep CO2 off during night cycles and ensure adequate sealing to avoid waste. Monitor leaf temperature and transpiration to prevent hidden heat stress under elevated CO2.
Yields for Plasma indoors commonly land around 450–600 g·m−2 under competent management, with top-tier growers pushing higher through SCROG and enriched environments. Outdoors in full sun with quality soil and ample root volume (200–400 L containers or in-ground beds), individual plants can exceed 500 g dry weight, weather permitting. Indica-leaning genetics generally finish before the first hard frosts in temperate zones, a key advantage for northern growers.
IPM (integrated pest management) should be preventative rather than reactive. Sticky cards, weekly scouting, cleanliness, and quarantining new clones minimize outbreaks. Biologicals like Bacillus subtilis for foliar disease suppression and predatory mites for spider mites or thrips can be layered into your plan.
Harvest Plasma when trichomes are mostly cloudy with 5–15% amber for a classic indica-leaning effect. Earlier harvests (mostly cloudy, minimal amber) emphasize head clarity and reduce couchlock. Later harvests (20–30% amber) move the experience deeper into sedation—useful for sleep-oriented patients.
Dry trimmed or whole plants in 16–20°C air at 55–60% RH with gentle circulation for 10–14 days until small stems snap. After drying, cure in airtight containers at 58–62% RH, burping daily for the first week and gradually tapering. Many cultivars show a noticeable terpene bloom after 3–4 weeks of cure, with continued refinement for up to 8–12 weeks.
If growing autos in the same room, remember that Plasma is photoperiod and will require a 12/12 cycle to flower. Keep training light and early for autos, and consider separate spaces if you want to push Plasma’s flowering under 12/12 while running autos at 18/6. Mixed canopies are possible but require careful planning to avoid compromise.
Harvest, Drying, Curing, and Storage
Plasma’s dense buds reward patient post-harvest handling. A slow dry locks in volatiles and preserves the citrus top note that can vanish with overly warm or fast drying. Target 10–14 days at 16–20°C and 55–60% RH with minimal direct airflow on flowers.
During cure, maintain 58–62% RH in airtight containers and open briefly each day for the first week to refresh air. Internal moisture equilibrates during weeks two and three, smoothing chlorophyll edges and letting limonene and pinene come forward. Most batches show their best expression by week four, with incremental improvements up to week eight or beyond.
Store long-term in dark, cool conditions—ideally 15–18°C—to slow terpene oxidation. Avoid frequent temperature swings and keep containers sealed to minimize oxygen exposure. For connoisseurs, small, nitrogen-flushed jars can further preserve quality over months.
Market Availability and Similar Strains
Plasma is a craft-bred cultivar and may have limited geographic reach depending on licensing and propagation. Check local dispensaries for small-batch drops and verify COAs to confirm cannabinoid and terpene composition. Packaging dates and storage practices significantly impact the sensory quality you ultimately experience.
A similarly named cultivar, Plasma Gas, appears on consumer platforms with user-reported effects like creativity, happiness, and talkativeness and negatives such as dry eyes and headaches. Plasma by Hippie Krack Genetiks is distinct, but the overlap in reported social uplift and occasional dryness is worth noting as you calibrate expectations. When in doubt, ask budtenders for aroma notes and lab data to ensure you’re selecting the intended Plasma.
If you enjoy Plasma’s profile, you might also consider indica-leaning hybrids that emphasize myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. Kush-forward staples, Chem-influenced crosses, or citrus-kush hybrids often inhabit a similar flavor and effect neighborhood. Ultimately, nose knows—trust your senses alongside lab numbers for the best fit.
Responsible Use, Dosing, and Safety
For inhalation, start with one small puff and wait 10 minutes before deciding to take another. Controlled studies show that psychoactive peaks arrive early after inhalation—often within 10–20 minutes—which supports a paced, iterative approach. With edibles, begin at 2.5–5 mg THC and wait a full 2–3 hours before re-dosing to avoid stacking.
Hydrate well and keep eye lubricating drops on hand if you’re prone to dryness. Some users report mild headaches at high doses or with dehydration; spacing sessions and maintaining hydration can help reduce these effects. Avoid driving or operating machinery while impaired, and consider a CBD-dominant option to round off intensity if needed.
If you take prescription medications, talk to a healthcare provider about potential interactions, particularly via the CYP450 enzyme system. Individuals with a history of psychosis or unstable cardiovascular conditions should proceed with medical oversight. Storing Plasma securely is essential—keep it out of reach of children and pets and clearly labeled to prevent accidental ingestion.
