Honey Bananas: Strain Profile and Hash Insights
- Hayyzoos
- Apr 3
- 17 min read
Honey Bananas is a celebrated hybrid cannabis strain renowned for its unique banana-like sweetness, abundant resin production, and popularity in the solventless hash community. Bred by Elemental Seeds in the mid-2010s, this strain’s combination of flavorful genetics and “dumps” of trichomes has earned it multiple awards in modern hash competitions
. The following report provides a deep dive into Honey Bananas’ history, lineage, terpene profile, cultivation traits, extraction performance, and community reception.
Origins and History of Honey Bananas
Honey Bananas was originally developed by Elemental Seeds, a California-based breeder collective, and first emerged on the market as a feminized seed offering around 2014–2015
. Elemental Seeds introduced Honey Bananas by crossing two strains (details in the next section) and marketed it as an elite, sweet, and frosty hybrid with potent indica effects
. Early descriptions highlighted its “deep penetrative stone” (body high) paired with a mild cerebral buzz
, as well as its bag appeal—dense buds “smothered in a frosty blanket of resin” giving it a sticky, honey-like quality
.
Initial growers of Honey Bananas reported vigorous plants and high resin output, though some noted phenotypic variability and occasional hermaphroditic tendencies in the original seed stock
. Despite these early challenges, the strain gained a following among connoisseurs, especially those with a “sweet tooth” for exotic flavors
. By 2017, a particularly exceptional clone-only phenotype of Honey Bananas had been selected and was held by UpNorth Humboldt, a California cultivator
. UpNorth preserved this prized “Honey B” cut under exclusivity for about five years before sharing it more widely with the community
. This clone – often simply called “Honey Banana” or “Honey B” – became the foundation for the strain’s rise to fame in the solventless hash scene.
Starting in 2021–2022, Honey Bananas began to dominate hash competitions. The Legends of Hashish Cup 2022 (Los Angeles) saw a Honey Bananas rosin entry by Professor Sift take 1st Place in the Rosin category
, firmly cementing the strain’s reputation. Around the same time, the strain also won regional accolades, such as “Best of New England” 2023 (for a live resin extract by MFNY) and even took “Concentrate of the Year” in the Oregon Leaf Bowl competition
. These victories knocked out many “hype” strains and demonstrated that Honey Bananas’ fruity terpene profile can stand out even among a crowded field of flavor-forward cultivars
.
The wave of popularity spurred further breeding and availability. The Cannabis Horticultural Association (CHA) obtained the award-winning cut (dubbed “Honey B”) and produced Honey Bananas S1 seeds via self-pollination
. Similarly, DNA Genetics released a limited Honey Banana S1 line, explicitly noting it came from the “Legends of Hashish 2022 Cup Winning Cut”
. By 2023, nurseries like Hendrx Farm and clone distributors like Hortmans were offering the Honey Bananas clone (sometimes labeled as an “Ego Clash” winning cut) to commercial growers
. What began as a boutique seed strain has thus evolved into a legendary hash plant, with a storied history from California breeding rooms to international hash competitions.
Genetic Lineage and Phenotypes
Honey Bananas’ appealing traits are the result of a carefully selected genetic lineage. It is a cross between Strawberry Banana and Honey Boo Boo
– two flavorful strains in their own right:
Strawberry Banana (sometimes called “Strawnana”) – A hybrid developed by DNA Genetics and Serious Seeds (in collaboration with Crockett Family Farms), known for its banana candy flavor and massive resin production. Strawberry Banana itself is the progeny of Banana Kush x Bubblegum and is famed for yielding copious trichomes, making it a favorite for hash makers. Its contribution to Honey Bananas is evident in the fruitiness and heavy resin output
.
Honey Boo Boo – An indica-dominant strain bred by DNA Genetics (named after a pop culture figure), created by crossing Bubba Kush with Captain Krypt OG
. Honey Boo Boo is an 80% indica noted for sweet, honey-like aroma with kush undertones and a potent sedative effect. In Honey Bananas, this parent contributes “Kushy” sweetness, indica potency, and sticky resin characteristics
.
Combining these genetics, Elemental Seeds aimed to “extract the best traits from both flavorful parents.” Indeed, Honey Bananas inherited a unique mix of traits: the tropical fruit aromas and trichome density of Strawberry Banana, layered with the honey-sweet, earthy kush notes and potency of Honey Boo Boo
. The result is a strain with complex sweetness and heavy indica effects.
Genetically, Honey Bananas is often described as indica-leaning (roughly 70% indica / 30% sativa by heritage)
. However, growers have observed multiple phenotypes in Honey Bananas populations. Some plants express more sativa-like morphology (taller stature and narrow leaves), likely leaning toward the Strawberry Banana side, while others stay shorter and bushier due to the Bubba Kush influence
. Notably, the famed “Honey B” cut selected for hash production displays a sativa growth structure (vertical stretch, long internodes) but still delivers an indica-type heavy resin and effect
. This dual nature means cultivators may encounter slight variations, but all phenotypes tend to be extremely resinous and aromatic. Overall, Honey Bananas’ lineage gives it a “genetic complexity” that appeals to breeders, connoisseurs, and hashmakers alike
.
Notable Producers and Market Presence
Since its debut, Honey Bananas has transitioned from a seed bank specialty to a coveted clone-only strain in many circles. Elemental Seeds distributed the original feminized seeds and is credited as the breeder
. Today, the torch has been carried by both cultivators and extract artists who have made Honey Bananas famous:
UpNorth Humboldt – This Northern California cultivator was an early keeper of the top Honey Bananas cut, reportedly holding it exclusively from 2017 until the early 2020s
. UpNorth’s stewardship helped preserve the strain’s best qualities and set the stage for its later introduction to a wider market.
Cannabis Horticultural Association (CHAnetics) – After the Honey Bananas cut won at Legends of Hashish, it was gifted to CHAnetics who reversed it to create Honey Bananas S1 seeds
. CHAnetics has promoted Honey Bananas as a “concentrate producing plant” and made packs of S1 seeds available, effectively bringing the winning genetics to hobby growers and breeders
.
DNA Genetics – The famed seed company also released a Honey Banana S1 (selfed line), highlighting its pedigree as a Legends of Hashish 2022 champion. This has further legitimized Honey Bananas in the international market, and DNA’s description emphasizes the strain’s fast growth, high THC, and tropical banana-honey flavors
.
Hendrx Farm – A licensed nursery in Humboldt, Hendrx obtained the Honey Bananas elite clone (via UpNorth) and began offering it to cultivators once it was no longer held exclusively
. Hendrx calls Honey Banana “the hash queen of California”, noting its track record on hash forums and award circuits and endorsing its special status among modern cultivars
.
Hashmakers and Extract Brands – Many top extractors have worked with Honey Bananas, given its reputation:
In California, Have Hash (Humboldt County) released a Honey Banana hash rosin in 2024 in collaboration with cultivator Royal Budline, as part of their signature rosin line
. This product was noted for its quality and sold as a limited drop to connoisseurs.
Professor Sift, an award-winning hashmaker, used Honey Bananas to win 1st place in Rosin at Legends of Hashish 2022
. His success with the strain brought massive attention from the solventless community.
On the East Coast, Motherflower NY (MFNY) took 1st place at the 2023 Best of New England competition with a Honey Banana live resin badder
. MFNY’s Honey Banana extracts (also available as vape cartridges) have been praised for their rich terpene profile, indicating the strain’s appeal beyond the West Coast
.
Other boutique brands like Secret Society Hash Co., Mega Raw Melts, and various winners of events like Ego Clash have either competed with or produced Honey Banana solventless concentrates. Clone vendors even label the elite cut as “Ego Clash Winning”, suggesting it placed highly in that respected competition as well
.
Dispensaries and Retail – Honey Bananas flower can occasionally be found at dispensaries, especially in California. For instance, Elemental Wellness (San Jose) originally carried Elemental Seeds releases, and later Humboldt-area dispensaries have stocked flower or pre-rolls from farms growing the Honey Banana clone. However, its greatest presence is in the concentrate market, where many dispensaries and delivery services offer Honey Banana hash rosins, live resins, or cartridges from the brands mentioned above. Due to its reputation, products labeled “Honey Banana” often generate excitement among consumers who follow hash culture.
In summary, Honey Bananas’ market presence has evolved from a niche seed offering to a mainstay of the solventless concentrate world. Breeders (Elemental, DNA, CHAnetics) have ensured its genetics are available, nurseries distribute the clones, and high-end extract artisans have made it a staple flavor on menus. This multi-faceted adoption underscores Honey Bananas’ value as both a cultivar for growers and a product for retailers.
Terpene Profile and Flavor Description
One of Honey Bananas’ standout features is its rich terpene profile, which drives its memorable aroma and flavor. The strain’s name is no accident – banana-like sweetness with a touch of honey is a dominant theme in its scent. Breaking down the lab-tested terpene composition helps explain its unique bouquet:
Lab-Tested Terpene Profile (Sample)
Terpene | Content (mg/g) | Notable Aroma/Flavor Notes |
β-Caryophyllene | 4.50 | |
β-Myrcene | 3.68 | Musky, ripe fruit (mango); contributes to the strain’s relaxing sweetness . |
δ-Limonene | 2.14 | |
α-Humulene | 1.95 | |
Linalool | 0.50 | Light floral (lavender) hint; softens the profile with a creamy, floral finish . |
β-Pinene | 0.40 | |
α-Pinene | 0.22 | |
Minor terpenes | Trace | Includes α-terpineol, nerolidol, farnesene (contribute to fruity and woody subtleties) . |
In total, well-grown Honey Bananas can have 1.5–2%+ terpenes by weight, which is relatively high
. The dominant terpenes – caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene – create a sweet and fruity core aroma. Sweet banana is the clearest note, often described as an overripe banana or banana candy scent that is “unmistakable”
. This is accented by honey-like sweetness and light spice (likely from the caryophyllene’s warm peppery profile)
. Many users also report tropical fruit and candy impressions – for instance, some liken the flavor to banana Laffy Taffy or a banana pudding dessert because of its sugary, creamy fruit quality
.
Supporting terpenes bring complexity: a touch of earthiness and herbal kush lies underneath (thanks to humulene and the Bubba Kush heritage)
. There can also be a gassy or dank note on the exhale, hinting at its OG/Captain Krypt lineage, though it remains wrapped in sweetness. The flavor when smoked or vaped is often described as smooth and dessert-like, with a sweet, slightly creamy finish reminiscent of honey-drizzled fruit or even vanilla
.
In summary, Honey Bananas offers a multi-layered terpene profile dominated by fruity sweetness (banana, tropical, candy) and complemented by honey, spice, and earth. This profile is highly aromatic (“loud”), translating strongly from flower to smoke/vapor. It’s a strain that delights the nose and palate of connoisseurs – “sweet and pronounced, it’s honestly difficult to put this one down,” as one review put it
.
A dried bud of Honey Bananas showcases its heavy trichome coverage and slight purple hues. The strain’s aroma is often described as a blend of sweet banana and honey, with fruity candy-like tones
. Buds are typically dense and “easy on the eye”, dripping with resin that gives off its signature tropical sweetness.
Cultivation Traits and Growth Characteristics
For cultivators, Honey Bananas presents as a relatively vigorous hybrid with some special considerations due to its resin output. Below are key cultivation traits:
Flowering Time: Honey Bananas has a moderate flowering period of about 8–9 weeks (56–63 days) indoors
. Breeder info from Elemental Seeds cites an average of ~60 days bloom
, though specific phenotypes (especially the Strawberry Banana-leaning ones) can go slightly longer, up to ~63–70 days in some cases
. Outdoors in the Northern Hemisphere, it finishes by mid-October
, making it feasible for climates with a standard October harvest season.
Yield and Structure: The strain is generally considered a moderate to high yielder. Indoors, plants can produce “large, delectable harvests” of buds when well-tended
. CannaConnection rates the yield as “Large” for both indoor and outdoor grows
. However, Hendrx notes the yield as “moderate”
– likely indicating that while the buds are weighty, the extreme resin production might slightly reduce the volume compared to more airy big-yielding strains. The bud structure is dense and chunky, with colas that can become quite thick. Because of the “vertical, narrow-leaf” growth pattern on the favored cut
, Honey Bananas plants tend to stretch and can reach medium-tall height if untrained. Expect long internodal spacing and vigorous vertical growth during early flower, so topping or training (SCROG/ties) might be needed to control height indoors
. The leaves often stay a healthy green but can show purple tints in the buds and sugar leaves late in flower (especially under cooler temperatures or in certain phenos, likely inherited from the Banana Kush lineage). Staking or trellising is advisable to support the resin-laden colas, which can be heavy.
Trichome Production: This is where Honey Bananas truly shines. Resin coverage is exceptionally high – growers frequently remark that fan leaves and sugar leaves become “absolutely covered” in thick trichomes
. Even by mid-flowering, buds appear frost-white from resin glands, a trait visible in live plant photos (see image above) where nearly every surface is coated in glittering heads. The strain was literally named for its sticky resin (like honey) and banana aroma, and it lives up to that reputation
. Trichome stalks are long and capitate, making them easy to dislodge for hash – a likely factor in its hash-making prowess. From a cultivation perspective, the heavy resin means sticky handling during trimming (scissors will gum up quickly) and a strong aroma in the grow room.
Growth Difficulty: Overall, Honey Bananas is considered a moderately easy strain to grow. It has hybrid vigor, responding well to standard feeding and not being overly finicky. CannaConnection rates its grow difficulty as “Medium”
. It tolerates both indoor and outdoor environments. One point of caution from some growers: because of the Strawberry Banana lineage, there is a slight tendency for hermaphroditism if the plant is heavily stressed (as noted by a few early growers who saw nanners in the original seed run)
. However, the clone-only cut used today has proven stable in professional settings, likely due to careful selection. Keeping stable light cycles and avoiding major stress will ensure a problem-free grow.
Cannabinoid Potency: Honey Bananas is quite potent, with THC levels commonly testing in the low-to-mid 20% range. Reports show ~21–24% THC in many samples
. For example, one lab test measured Total THC at 22.5% (THCa 25%)
. CBD is minimal (usually well under 1%)
, and some phenos show a bit of CBG (around 0.5–1%). The high THC and low CBD make it a powerful strain, so growers should ensure proper curing to mellow any harshness given the resin density.
Visual Appearance: In the jar, Honey Bananas buds are eye-catching – typically medium-sized, tightly packed nuggets with a light green color accented by golden pistils and often streaks of purple. A fine blanket of white resin gives the buds a frosted look, as if rolled in sugar. This visual appeal is one reason Elemental Seeds touted it as “easy on the eye and heavy in potency”
, appealing to collectors and connoisseurs who value both looks and effects.
Honey Bananas in mid-flower, grown outdoors. Note the blanket of trichomes covering leaves and buds. This extreme resin production is a hallmark of the strain, making it ideal for hash extraction
. Plants exhibit a narrow-leaf, sativa-leaning structure despite the strain’s indica effects, often reaching medium-tall height with spaced-out bud sites
.
Extraction Performance: Hash and Rosin Yields
Honey Bananas has achieved fame largely due to how well it performs in solventless extraction (ice water hash and rosin). Hashmakers often refer to strains that produce above-average returns of trichomes as “dumpers” – and Honey Bananas is considered one of the top “hash dumpers” in recent years. Key points about its extraction metrics and qualities include:
Fresh Frozen Hash Yield: When plant material is frozen fresh and washed for bubble hash, Honey Bananas delivers exceptional yields. Experienced hashmakers consistently report around 5%–7% yield (of hash from fresh frozen weight), which is very high
. For context, a 5% yield means 5g of hash from 100g of fresh buds (many good strains yield only 3-4%). CHAnetics noted that even S1 seed plants “consistently yield 5% returns in wash”, indicating this trait is strongly expressed in its genetics
. Clone growers often achieve the upper end: for instance, a clone vendor advertising the cut mentions 6–7% returns consistently
. These numbers make Honey Bananas extremely attractive to hash producers, as it means more hash per batch of plant material.
Resin Quality (Melt and Rosin): Not only is the quantity of resin high, but the quality is superb. Honey Bananas produces full-melt bubble hash (high percentage of heads that melt clean). Nasha Hash’s tests gave it a melt score in the 70–78% range for their bubble (indicating a high proportion of the resin heads liquefy rather than leaving char)
. When pressed into rosin, the resin’s terpenes remain very potent. In fact, the strain is frequently noted to carry its terpene profile into hash/rosin perfectly – meaning the rosin smells and tastes just like the flower/terpenes, with strong banana and sweet notes in the extract
. One source emphasizes that its “exotic banana terpene profile translates to the rosin perfectly.”
This is not always the case with all strains, making Honey Bananas special.
Rosin Yield and Consistency: After making ice water hash, processors usually press it into rosin. Honey Bananas’ rosin yields are also excellent; generally, rosin yields are ~70-80% of the hash yield (so a 6% hash yield might give ~4–5% rosin yield from fresh frozen, which is still top-tier). The consistency of Honey Bananas rosin is typically a budder or badder with a wet, greasy texture. Fresh-pressed, it may appear light golden, and with cold curing it often whips into a creamy, batter-like concentrate. Anecdotes describe it as looking like “a fresh batch of wet banana pudding” in color and consistency
. This desirable texture is easy to work with and indicates a high terpene fraction. The rosin usually budders up nicely without needing heavy agitation – a sign of terpene richness.
Concentrate Potency and Terps: Because the starting material is high in THC and terpenes, the resulting concentrates are very potent and flavorful. Lab data from one rosin product showed over 70% THC with a robust terpene percentage
(Have Hash’s Honey Banana 2nd press rosin tested ~72.7% THC). Hashmakers often rave that the “loud” smell of Honey Bananas flower becomes even louder in extract form
. In other words, very little terpene loss – the rosin smells strongly of sweet banana candy and a bit of gas, easily discernible to the nose. This makes it a favorite for connoisseur dabs.
Awards and Recognition in Hash Form: The ultimate proof of Honey Bananas’ extraction performance is its track record in competitions:
Legends of Hashish 2022 (LA) – 1st Place, Rosin (Professor Sift’s Honey Banana)
.
Ego Clash (a private NorCal hash event) – A Honey Banana entry is reputed to have won or placed in an Ego Clash, as evidenced by the cut being marketed as “Ego Clash Winning”
(though official records are less public).
Oregon Leaf Bowl 2023 – Named Concentrate of the Year by Oregon Leaf magazine (beating many others)
.
Best of New England 2023 – 1st Place (MFNY’s Honey Banana live resin)
.
These accolades, all earned through extracts, highlight that Honey Bananas has become a benchmark for solventless quality in the industry.
In practical terms, growers who cultivate Honey Bananas often dedicate the crop to making fresh frozen hash because the returns and quality are so high. As CHAnetics puts it, “Honey B is really designed as a concentrate producing plant… the buds can be smoked for connoisseur purposes but it is not commercial grade flower.”
This tongue-in-cheek remark implies that while the buds are great, their highest and best use (value-wise) is to turn into hash and rosin for the ultimate expression of its terpene profile.
Effects and Community Reception
Honey Bananas delivers a potent and enjoyable high that tends to mirror its hybrid nature: deeply relaxing yet mood-elevating. Consumers and hashmakers alike have shared glowing reviews of both its effects and overall experience:
Primary Effects: The strain is often described as providing a “weighty full-body buzz” that is strongly relaxing, coupled with an invigorating cerebral euphoria
. In plain terms, it hits the body with a warm, calming heaviness (thanks to its indica dominance and high myrcene content), while also lifting the mind into a happy, giggly, or creatively inspired state. Leafly user data indicates common feelings of relaxation, happiness, and even giggliness
. It’s a strain that can melt away stress and pain (many medical users cite it helps with stress, depression, and pain relief
) without being overwhelmingly sedative unless taken in large amounts. The presence of limonene and pinene terpenes likely adds a slight energetic or focus edge to the otherwise calming indica effects, resulting in a balanced high. Some call the effect optimistic and comfortable – you feel physically at ease and mentally uplifted
. Because of this balance, dosage and context matter: a small hit can be fine for daytime creativity or socializing (DNA Genetics even markets it as potentially “uplifting, perfect for daytime use”), whereas heavier consumption leans into couch-lock territory for nighttime unwinding
.
Flavor in Use: When smoked or vaporized, users consistently praise Honey Bananas’ flavor. Reviews often mention it tastes like it smells – sweet, fruity, and creamy. “Sweet candy flavor,” notes one concentrate review
. The banana and honey sweetness coats the palate, sometimes with a tangy fruity exhale (hints of strawberry from the Strawberry Banana lineage). In hash rosin form, dabbers have called it “addictive” because the flavor is so pronounced and delicious
. There’s a novelty in experiencing such a dessert-like profile in cannabis form, which contributes to its popularity.
User and Hashmaker Praise: Within the solventless community, Honey Bananas has almost a cult following. On forums and social media, hashmakers often share pictures of their Honey Banana extractions with comments like “love the terps on Honey Banana” and “my go-to from now on”. Its reputation on the Rosin subreddit and others is that of a “must-wash” strain for anyone serious about flavor
. Hash reviewers (like DankMaven and others on Instagram) have rated it highly; for instance, one rosin was scored 89/100 with particular mention of its loud terpene presence (bananas, candy, and a bit of funk). The strain’s repeated competition wins also speak volumes – judges and peers chose it over many hyped contenders, indicating widespread respect for its quality. As Hendrx writes, “there is no question this one is special.”
Popularity: By 2024, Honey Bananas has become one of the most sought-after strains in the solventless scene. It’s frequently mentioned alongside other modern hash all-stars (like Papaya, GMO, Strawberry Guava, etc.), but what sets it apart is its distinct flavor. In an era where many strains share similar “gassy” or “cookies” terp profiles, Honey Bananas’ fruity dessert profile is a differentiator. This has kept demand high. Many consumers specifically seek out Honey Banana rosin or cartridges, and it often sells out quickly when drops occur. Its popularity has even “knocked old favorites and new hype out of the way,” as noted in Leaf Nation’s review, proving that it’s not just a trendy name – it’s backed by performance and taste
.
Negative or Neutral Aspects: Side effect-wise, being high-THC, it can cause some dry mouth or dry eyes (common with potent strains)
. A few Leafly users noted slight anxiety or dizziness if overconsumed, likely due to the potent head buzz. However, these reports are infrequent; most find it relaxing. As a flower, one could argue its bag appeal, while very frosty, might not be as visually striking as some purple or neon-green strains (it often has a muted sandy color from all the trichomes). But this is a minor note in an otherwise stellar profile.
In conclusion, both cannabis consumers and professional hashmakers hold Honey Bananas in high regard. It’s often recommended to those who value flavor and a balanced high. Whether enjoyed as cured flower, live rosin, or any other form, Honey Bananas tends to leave a lasting impression. Its blend of nostalgic sweetness (imagine banana candy) with a relaxing euphoria makes it memorable and explains why it has risen to elite status. As one High Times writer put it on his “must-cop list,” Honey Bananas is a flavor you simply have to experience when you get the chance
.
References
Elemental Seeds – Honey Bananas Strain Description
Leafly – Honey Bananas (Honey Banana) Strain Overview
Cannabis Horticultural Association – Honey Bananas S1 Product Info
Hendrx Farm – Honey Banana Cultivar Profile
Leaf Nation (California Leaf) – Concentrate Review: Honey Banana Rosin
Hashtek – Legends of Hashish II 2022 Results
Hortmans Clone Co. – Honey Banana Clone (Ego Clash Cut) Info
Treasure Valley Cannabis – Honey Banana Lab Test and Terpene Data
Nasha Hash – Honey Banana Strain Profile (Hash)
CannaConnection – Honey Bananas Strain Information
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