Northern Lights cannabis
Photo: Sativaindica · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Northern Lights

aka NLIndica
4(3598)
Type
Indica
THC
17.3%–22.2%
CBD
< 0.5%
Main terpene
Pinene
Parents
Afghani × Thai

THC range is the middle half of 52 public lab tests of Northern Lights flower (2020–2024). Source: Cannlytics lab results, CC BY 4.0.

About Northern Lights

Northern Lights is an indica-leaning strain that comes from a cross of Afghani with Thai. You may also see it sold as NL. People who try it most often describe feeling sleepy, hungry and relaxed.

THC and potency

Public lab results give a good picture of its strength: 52 flower samples tested between 2020 and 2024 came in at a median of 18.7% total THC (the middle half ranged from 17.3% to 22.2%). CBD is typically negligible (under 0.5%). That is in line with most flower on Canadian shelves. Potency varies by grower and batch, so always check the label.

Aroma, flavour and terpenes

In lab tests its dominant terpene is pinene, followed by myrcene and caryophyllene. Pinene is known for sharp, fresh pine, while myrcene adds earthy, musky notes with a ripe-fruit edge. Total terpene content measured a median of 2.3%. Consumers most often describe the flavour as pine, spicy/herbal and earthy.

Reported effects

Beyond feeling sleepy, reviewers also mention feeling euphoric and giggly. Some consumers say they reach for it when dealing with stress, anxiety and pain. The side effects mentioned most are dry mouth, dry eyes and dizziness. These are personal reports, not medical advice.

Northern Lights in Canada

Our Canadian catalogue lists 57 products made with Northern Lights, mostly flower and pre-rolls, other and vapes, from brands including Station House, Weed Me, OCS Bluff and Bold Leaf. Availability differs by province and store.

Genetics

Parents: Afghani and Thai. Northern Lights is also a parent of Dutch Treat, Chronic, Green Goblin, Cactus, Aurora Indica and Northern Skunk.

Northern Lights terpenes

Median share of flower weight in lab tests.

  • pinene0.22%
  • myrcene0.20%
  • humulene0.07%
  • limonene0.08%
  • linalool0.03%
  • bisabolol0.01%

Strains similar to Northern Lights

Matched on reported effects, terpenes and type.

Northern Lights FAQ

How strong is Northern Lights?
In 52 public lab tests, Northern Lights flower had a median of 18.7% total THC; most samples were between 17.3% and 22.2%.
Is Northern Lights an indica or a sativa?
Northern Lights is generally classed as an indica.
What strains make Northern Lights?
Northern Lights is a cross of Afghani and Thai.
What does Northern Lights smell like?
Its main terpene is pinene (pine), and people describe the flavour as pine, spicy/herbal, earthy.
Can I buy Northern Lights in Canada?
Yes. Our Canadian catalogue lists 57 Northern Lights products; availability varies by province and store.