Orange Starburst Strain

Comprehensive Report

Orange Starburst (often referred to as Starburst OG or Starburst Kush) is a hybrid cannabis strain famed for its candy-like citrus flavor and balanced effects. It has gained attention among growers, consumers, and especially hash makers for its unique profile. Below is a detailed overview of this strain, covering its lineage, terpene profile, effects, cultivation traits, extract performance, market presence, and more.

Summary of Key Attributes

 Table: Overview of Orange Starburst’s key characteristics (genetics, profile, effects, cultivation, and market data).

Attribute	Details
Genetic Lineage	Most common: Pre-98 Bubba Kush × Fire OG​leafly.com. Other variants: Some breeders have labeled different crosses as “Starburst,” e.g. Tangerine × The Hook​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, a three-way Pink Starburst OG hybrid, etc. The strain is generally a clone-only hybrid (original breeder unknown, rumored origins in Alaska)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com.
Breeder / Origin	Believed to be a clone-only creation (circa 2010s) with no single credited breeder. It likely emerged from small-batch breeding – cannabis lore even suggests it may have originated in Alaska​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Several seed companies have since released “Starburst” crosses, but the authentic Orange Starburst cut is typically passed among cultivators.
Type	Balanced Hybrid (roughly 50% Indica / 50% Sativa)​allbud.com. Many phenotypes lean sativa-dominant (50–70% sativa traits)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com despite the Bubba Kush parent, due to variability in seed vs. clone versions.
Dominant Terpenes	Myrcene, β-Caryophyllene, Pinene are commonly dominant​leafly.com. Notably, many cuts also feature Limonene (strong citrus zest) and even a touch of Linalool (floral) in the profile​sativauniversity.com. This diverse terpene mix gives Orange Starburst its sweet-yet-spicy character.
Aromas	Sweet citrus candy (often likened to the orange or lemon Starburst candy) layered over diesel fuel and pine notes​allbud.com​allbud.com. Some phenos exhibit hints of herbal sage or tea in the aroma, adding an earthy depth to the candy-sweet first impression​stonedcoast.blog.
Flavors	Sugary fruit candy (bright orange/lemon sweetness) on the inhale, followed by a tangy, sour citrus kick​allbud.com. The exhale often brings out a peppery, piney finish with light earthiness​allbud.com​leafly.com. In essence, users describe it as “like a sweet-&-sour orange Starburst with a dash of OG funk.”
Potency (THC)	High – typically ~18–26% THC in most samples​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Top-shelf cuts can test 26–33% THC​allbud.com​sativauniversity.com, delivering very potent effects. (Note: One Leafly report showed a rare balanced phenotype ~11% THC / 8% CBD​leafly.com​leafly.com, but most Orange Starburst on the market is THC-rich with minimal CBD.)
Cannabinoids	THC-dominant. CBD is usually <1%​sativauniversity.com. However, some phenotypes (or misidentified “Starburst” strains) have shown ~4% CBD​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, making a few cuts mildly CBD-rich. CBG is present in trace amounts (~0.1–0.8%)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Overall, expect a classic high-THC chemotype unless a specific high-CBD cut is noted.
Effects	Uplifting and euphoric onset – Consumers report an “upbeat, buzzy head high” that comes on quickly with enhanced focus, energy, and mood​leafly.com​allbud.com. Many feel happy, giggly and mentally clear at first. As the high progresses, a deep physical relaxation unfolds – a warm body buzz that can lead to couch-lock and sedation in higher doses​allbud.com. This balanced one-two effect (cerebral then body) is a hallmark: “almost buzzy with happiness” initially, then calming​allbud.com. At full strength or in later stages, it may induce drowsiness and appetite (“the munchies”) for some​allbud.com, though others report minimal fuzziness or hunger​stonedcoast.blog​stonedcoast.blog.
Medical Uses	Due to its mix of effects, Orange Starburst is used for both mental and physical relief. Patients have found it helpful for stress and anxiety (mood lift + relaxation)​allbud.com, depression (euphoric boost)​allbud.com, and headaches or migraines (clear-headed relief)​leafly.com. The later body effects may aid chronic pain and insomnia as well​alwaysbeflowering.com​allbud.com. Its balanced nature makes it a potential daytime pain reliever (in moderate doses) or nighttime relaxant (in heavier doses).
Bud Appearance	Dense, chunky buds that are typically light neon-green in color with sparse darker green areas​allbud.com. They develop abundant thick orange pistils and a heavy frosting of golden-amber trichomes when grown well​allbud.com. The calyxes can be large and somewhat flattened. Growers note the strain produces impressive buds with minimal “larf” or excess leaves (“little lumber”)​allbud.com, making for good bag appeal.
Flowering Time	Approximately 7–8 weeks indoors​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com – a fast finisher. Many growers report ~49–56 days of bloom is sufficient for ripe, potent buds, thanks to the quick-finishing Bubba Kush heritage. Outdoor harvest is around early to mid October in temperate climates​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com (finishing before fall rains in many regions).
Yield	Moderate to High. Indoor growers can expect about 8 to 24 ounces per plant (or roughly 1.5–2.5 oz/sq.ft under optimal conditions)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Outdoors, plants can yield 16 to 64 ounces each in ideal conditions​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. This wide range reflects different phenotypes and skill levels – experienced cultivators report Orange Starburst can be a solid yielder with dense colas.
Grow Difficulty	Moderate (Easy for experienced growers). Orange Starburst is generally robust and adapts well to indoor, outdoor, or greenhouse grows​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. It prefers a warm, mildly humid climate and responds well to training techniques. Many phenos are conducive to a Sea of Green (SOG) style due to uniform structure​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. The strain shows average resilience – it has some resistance to mold and pests​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com but isn’t entirely foolproof. Proper airflow is recommended due to the dense buds. Overall, growers with some skill will manage fine.
Notable Phenotypes	Besides the “standard” cut, there are a few known phenos: Starburst #36 – an exceptional selection that 710 Labs popularized (a sativa-leaning cut with intense sweet-citrus flavor and strong potency​flowercompany.com). Pink Starburst – a distinct strain (unrelated genetics) often confused by name. Grass Roots Orange Starburst – a Maine-exclusive cross of Doughnut ’n Cider × Turpee Slurpee​stonedcoast.blog. These demonstrate that “Orange Starburst” may refer to different genetics in different markets, but all aim for that orange-candy terpene profile.
Crossbreeds	Orange Starburst’s genetics have been used in new hybrids. For example, Apex (Starburst OG × Do-Si-Dos) won a High Times Cup in 2019​cannabiscup.com. Breeders like In-House Genetics have crossed Starburst OG with others (e.g. Starburst OG × Crypteen). Capulator’s Starburst 36 F1 (Starburst OG × ’97 KC36) took 1st at Ego Clash 2021 (a prestigious hash competition). More recently, Smokey’s Solventless Orange Starburst was created by crossing Punch Cake × Sour Starburst to maximize orange terps and resin yield​gasstationofficial.com. There are also “Ztarburst” and “Purple Starburst” crosses in circulation. This strain’s candy flavor makes it a popular breeding partner for those seeking unique terpene profiles.
Terpene Profile	Sweet citrus (limonene + myrcene) over skunky-spice (caryophyllene) and pine (pinene). Lab analyses of similar phenos show notable β-myrcene (for relaxing undertone), limonene (bright orange/lemon notes), β-caryophyllene (peppery, diesel hints), and often a bit of humulene or linalool contributing to earthy/floral nuances​sativauniversity.com. Total terpene content is often above average, giving a loud smell. In one lab test of a related “Orange Starburst” hemp cultivar, the top terps were bisabolol (floral), caryophyllene, and valencene​portal.acslabcannabis.com – indicating even CBD versions carry citrus and spice aroma.
Hash/Concentrate Performance	Excellent for solventless extracts. Orange Starburst develops large, resinous trichome heads that wash well for bubble hash, making it a favorite of hash makers​lowtemp-plates.com. In fact, extraction experts include Starburst OG among the “best strains for bubble hash”​lowtemp-plates.com. It tends to produce a high yield of full-melt hash with terpene-rich resin. Pressing this hash yields top-tier rosin that often comes out as a wet, batter-like concentrate (golden and greasy). Brands like 710 Labs, Papa’s Select, and others have worked with Starburst phenos for this reason. Smokey’s Solventless lauded their Orange Starburst live rosin for its “shimmering terpene pools” and buttery texture​gasstationofficial.com. In short, the strain’s resin is highly sought-after by solventless producers for both yield and flavor.
Extract Terpene/Flavor	When made into concentrates, Orange Starburst’s terp profile really shines. For example, a cold-cured live rosin sample was described as “an intense orange essence with a developing sour complexity”, like orange juice and candy with a tangy zest​gasstationofficial.com. The flavor is a “true explosion of sweet-and-sour orange terps” that evolves with each dab​gasstationofficial.com. This robust flavor carryover into rosin has made it popular for vape cartridges and “persy” (personal) rosin jars alike. Smokey’s noted their Orange Starburst rosin delivered full-spectrum effects with both head and body highs, indicating the entourage effect from its rich terpene content​gasstationofficial.com.
Awards & Recognition	High Times NorCal Cannabis Cup 2019: 1st Place Hybrid Concentrate was “Apex – Starburst OG × Do-Si-Dos”​cannabiscup.com, showcasing Starburst OG’s appeal in extracts. Ego Clash 2021: a Starburst OG cross took top honors (as noted above). Oregon Growers Cup 2024: Starburst 36 (an Orange Starburst-derived pheno) won 1st Place Solventless Hash​cannabiscupwinners.com, and also placed in vape categories​cannabiscupwinners.com. These accolades underscore Orange Starburst’s elite status among hash connoisseurs. While it hasn’t (to public knowledge) won a major flower category cup under the name “Orange Starburst,” its presence in award-winning concentrates and breeder competitions is significant.
Market Popularity	Cult Following: Orange Starburst is not as ubiquitous as, say, OG Kush or Gelato, but it enjoys high demand in certain circles. Consumer ratings are strong – e.g., 4.3/5 on AllBud (based on user reviews) and 4.5/5 on Leafly​leafly.com​allbud.com – indicating very positive reception. Connoisseurs & Hash Makers: The strain has a reputation as a “flavor chaser’s delight”, so solventless concentrate brands often hunt for it. For instance, 710 Labs has released “Starburst 36” batches that sold out quickly, and Smokey’s Solventless drop in 2024 generated buzz​gasstationofficial.com. Regional popularity: It’s been cultivated by top growers from California to Maine. In Maine, “Grass Roots” offers an Orange Starburst (different lineage) that became a local favorite​stonedcoast.blog. In New York, a grower’s “Starburst Orange” pheno (Rainbow Belts lineage) was rated one of the year’s favorites by a reviewer​thehighestcritic.com​thehighestcritic.com. Overall, demand is high among terpene enthusiasts, though the strain is still considered somewhat exotic/limited in many dispensaries.
Pricing (Flower)	Premium tier: Orange Starburst flower generally commands mid-to-high shelf prices. As of 2025, dispensaries list it around $35–$45 for ⅛ oz (3.5g)​dutchie.com​flowercompany.com (roughly $10–$13 per gram) when available. This is on par with other boutique strains. Bulk deals can bring it down slightly (e.g. ~$35 per eighth in bulk in CA)​flowercompany.com. In illicit or caregiver markets, it may fetch $200–$250/oz for top quality.
Pricing (Concentrates)	Rosin & Hash: Because of its desirability, live rosin or 6✉ star hash from Orange Starburst is pricey. Gram jars of fresh-press or cold-cure rosin made from Orange Starburst often retail around $80–$100 per gram in adult-use markets (e.g. California), reflecting its elite status. For example, an Orange Starburst 70u-119u cold cure rosin was listed at $80/2g (California wholesale club) – roughly $40/g. Live resin (BHO): Some producers have also put out Orange Starburst live resin disposables; these are more affordable (one 1g live resin vape pen was ~$40 on sale​crysp.co). Overall, the strain’s concentrates sit in the premium price bracket, especially for solventless products, due to limited supply and high demand among connoisseurs.

(✉ 6-star hash = very high quality bubble hash that is nearly full-melt.)

Genetic Lineage and Breeding History

Orange Starburst’s genetic lineage most commonly traces back to a cross of Fire OG and Pre-98 Bubba Kush​leafly.com. This pairing – a potent OG Kush variant and an old-school Bubba Kush – created a hybrid named for its sweet candy-like taste (an “infringing candy name” as Leafly coyly puts it​leafly.com). It is essentially the same strain often labeled “Starburst OG” or “Starburst Kush.”

• Fire OG is a famed OG Kush phenotype known for lemon-fuel aromas and heavy potency, while Pre-98 Bubba Kush is a beloved indica with coffee, pine, and hash notes. Their combination yields a balanced hybrid carrying both citrus-fuel and earthy kush traits.

Notably, the original breeder is unconfirmed – Orange Starburst is widely regarded as a clone-only strain, meaning it was likely never a commercial seed release by a major seed bank. Cannabis historians note that the “Starburst OG” clone circulated in California and beyond in the 2010s, but exact origins are murky (with one source even suggesting it may have come from an Alaskan grower)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Always Be Flowering Genetics lists it as a “very unique and rare cultivar” that was only available as a clone​leafly.com​alwaysbeflowering.com.

However, due to the popularity of the name, multiple breeders have created their own “Starburst” strains which can cause confusion. Some examples of alternate lineages carrying the Starburst moniker:

• Tangerine × The Hook: A sativa-dominant Starburst reported by one source (possibly a Dutch or West Coast breeder’s version)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. This would presumably produce a more citrus-forward, tangie-like phenotype (and may explain some Starburst cuts testing with moderate THC and CBD).

• “Pink Starburst” (aka Pink Starburst OG): A completely different hybrid created from (DJ Short’s Blueberry × Headband) × Sour Diesel BX3, noted by seed bank reports​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Despite the name, Pink Starburst is a separate strain with its own profile (often berry-sweet). It’s not directly related to Orange Starburst, but the naming overlap is worth noting.

• Lemon Larry OG × Nebula: Another breeder’s Starburst variant listed by ILGM​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, likely emphasizing a lemon-candy profile (Lemon Larry) crossed with Nebula (a fruity hybrid).

• Roadkill phenotype Starburst (Lupos Cannaseed): Yet another version supposedly from a Roadkill Skunk pheno​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, which might lean more skunky in aroma.

In summary, the consensus “Orange Starburst” is Fire OG × Pre-98 Bubba Kush, but growers and dispensaries should be aware that the name has been used for different genetics by various breeders. Always check the stated lineage if available. The canonical Starburst OG cut is an even 50/50 hybrid with that Bubba/Fire parentage​allbud.com. It was likely selected for its unique flavor (reminiscent of the yellow/orange Starburst candy) and balanced effects.

Breeder Credit: Because it was clone-only, no single breeder trademarked Orange Starburst. Some speculate it might have been an accidental cross or a one-off breeding project that yielded a stellar phenotype, which was then shared. The strain’s survival through the era of candy-named genetics (Gorilla Glue → GG4, etc.) is notable – Orange Starburst has kept its full candy name publicly​stonedcoast.blog, perhaps indicating it flew under the radar of major trademark scrutiny or simply that the community stuck with the nickname.

Today, a number of seed companies incorporate Starburst OG genetics into new hybrids (for example, In-House Genetics and Capulator have used it in crosses), but if you see “Orange Starburst” flower in a dispensary, it’s most likely from that clone lineage unless otherwise specified.

Terpene Profile, Aroma & Flavor

One of Orange Starburst’s biggest selling points is its vibrant terpene profile that translates into distinctive aromas and flavors. Breaking down its sensory profile:

• Dominant Terpenes: Laboratory and user data suggest Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene are among the top terpenes in Starburst OG​leafly.com. Myrcene can impart a sweet, musky fruitiness (and is common in Kush strains), caryophyllene adds a peppery spice and gas, while pinene contributes pine forest notes. Many reports also highlight Limonene in the mix – the strain’s strong citrus peel aroma suggests a notable limonene presence​sativauniversity.com. Some phenos or batches show minor levels of Linalool and Humulene​sativauniversity.com, which could give subtle floral and herbal accents (one reviewer noted a “floral… and earthy spice” undertone in the smell​thehighestcritic.com).

• Scent: When you open a jar of Orange Starburst, expect a blast of candied citrus. The top-note is like orange zest and sweet tangerine – often compared to orange soda or an actual orange Starburst candy​thehighestcritic.com​gasstationofficial.com. There’s a sweet, sugary quality to the aroma (“layers of sugary sweetness and tangy citrus,” as one description put it)​tiptopcrop.com. Behind that, funky and fuel-like aromas linger: you’ll detect diesel, skunk, and pine resin notes inherited from its OG Kush background​allbud.com​allbud.com. In some cases, a mild herbal earthiness (like sage or even a linen-like clean note) can be found, likely from the Bubba Kush side​thehighestcritic.com. Overall, the scent is intense and eye-catching – one user said “it smells like an orange Starburst being sprayed on my brain” when describing the terpene pungency.

• Flavor: Orange Starburst’s taste follows the aroma closely. The inhale typically delivers a sweet, fruity citrus flavor – often described as orange or lemon candy that’s “sweet yet sour”​alwaysbeflowering.com. Consumers frequently mention it “tastes like the yellow Starburst” (the lemon one)​alwaysbeflowering.com, with a mix of sweet candy and tart citrus. This candy-like sweetness is balanced by OG Kush elements on the exhale: a savory diesel, pepper, and pine finish​allbud.com. The interplay can be quite delightful; as AllBud’s strain profile summarizes, “Starburst OG does taste like a sweet yet sour lemon candy. The aroma takes a heavier turn, with hints of savory diesel and rich pine”​allbud.com. In essence, you get the best of both worlds – a dessert-like citrus sweetness and a classic Kushy funk. Some users also report a lingering tang or zest on the tongue after exhale, almost like a light tartness.

• Smoke Quality: The smoke (or vapor) is typically smooth and velvety​stonedcoast.blog. Even in a joint, Orange Starburst tends to burn to a clean white ash (indicating good cultivation/flush) and doesn’t harsh the throat. One grower noted it was “very smooth... perfect for joints”​allbud.com. It can be a bit of a chest expander – a few hits might make you feel it in your lungs (or knees, as one user humorously noted)​allbud.com due to potency, but it’s not known for coughing fits or discomfort. The aftertaste is often sweet citrus with an earthy spice that may linger.

• Comparisons: If seeking a reference point, Orange Starburst’s flavor is less gassy than a pure OG and less cloyingly fruity than a strain like Runtz. A reviewer contrasted it: “It doesn't have the outright fruity taste like Runtz, but a slight sweet-and-gassy taste that is pleasant and strong”​allbud.com. Another said it’s not as overwhelmingly dessert-sweet as some strains, but the balance of sweet, sour, and funk makes it memorable​allbud.com. Imagine the citrus sweetness of Tangie or Orange Cookies, but backed by the weight and depth of an OG Kush – that’s Orange Starburst in a nutshell.

In concentrate form (like live rosin), these terpenes are amplified: Smokey’s Solventless described their Orange Starburst extract as “bright, juicy citrus” with “an intense orange essence” and a “sour complexity”, calling it an “exciting flavor journey”​gasstationofficial.com. This indicates the terpene richness carries through extraction, preserving the signature flavor.

Overall, Orange Starburst’s terpene profile is a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy fruity strains but still want that classic cannabis pungency. It’s sweet but not one-dimensional – the candy citrus hits first, then piney-skunk notes ground it. This unique flavor bouquet is a primary reason the strain has endeared itself to both recreational users and concentrate aficionados.

Effects and Cannabinoid Content

Orange Starburst delivers a dynamic range of effects, often described in two phases: an uplifting cerebral rush followed by a relaxing physical calm. Thanks to its balanced hybrid nature and potent chemistry, it can suit a variety of moods and needs.

Primary Effects:

• Euphoric, Uplifting Head Buzz: The high often hits quickly, with users feeling effects “almost as soon as you exhale”​allbud.com. The initial wave is energizing and mentally stimulating. Many report a boost in mood and focus, with a clear-headed euphoria that can be motivating. This part of the high is often characterized by happiness, giggles, and creativity. In fact, Leafly’s community notes feelings of being focused, energetic, and giggly​leafly.com. It’s not unusual to feel more sociable or talkative during this stage, as anxiety melts away and is replaced by a bright outlook. One medical review noted it gives a “sense of clarity” and even slight “buzzy” sensation in the mind​allbud.com, in line with many sativa-leaning strains.

• Relaxing, Full-Body Calm: As time progresses (or with higher dosage), Orange Starburst unveils its indica side. A warm body relaxation sets in, relieving tension from muscles and imparting a calm, weighty sensation. AllBud describes a “deep sense of physical relaxation” that can “lower you into the couch” and eventually lull you to sleep in the final stages​allbud.com. Not everyone will be knocked out – many find the body high very comfortable without being too sedating unless they overindulge. A reviewer on Stoned Coast blog put it well: “If I’m up and about I feel very light, but if I’m sitting I fall into it a bit and feel a touch heavy”, noting it’s perfect for active enjoyment followed by relaxation​stonedcoast.blog​stonedcoast.blog. Essentially, it’s adaptogenic – keep moving and you’ll enjoy a functional buzz; sit down to chill and you might melt into the chair.

• Balanced “Hybrid” High: Thanks to these dual effects, Orange Starburst is often praised as an ideal hybrid. It can be cerebral without racing anxiety (the Bubba Kush influence likely smooths out the edginess of Fire OG), and relaxing without total sedation (the OG lineage keeps it uplifting). Many users experience a nice mind-body equilibrium – “the perfect balance of cerebral uplift and physical relaxation,” as one rosin reviewer described​gasstationofficial.com. This balance makes it a versatile strain for any time from afternoon to early evening. In moderate doses, daytime use is feasible (especially for those who need mood and pain relief but still want to function), while higher doses lean toward evening use due to the couch-lock factor.

Potency and Cannabinoid Profile:

• THC: Orange Starburst is generally very potent in THC content. Typical lab tests put it in the high teens to mid-20% range. ILGM cites an average of 16%–23% THC​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, but most top-shelf samples test higher. Dispensaries often report ~25% THC for Orange Starburst flower. Indeed, multiple sources note 26%–33% THC for this strain in prime conditions​allbud.com​sativauniversity.com. For example, Deadpan Genetics measured ~25.9% THCA in a batch​deadguygenetics.com​deadguygenetics.com. This places Orange Starburst among the stronger strains on the market – novice users should approach with caution, as the high can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared for ~25%+ THC. The strain’s effects being powerful is echoed by users: “feel it in your knees off one hit” and “strong head buzz… love this strain”​allbud.com​allbud.com.

• CBD: Typically low CBD. The common Starburst OG cut was bred for psychoactivity, not CBD content. Sativa University notes CBD is <1% in most samples​sativauniversity.com. However, as mentioned earlier, there have been phenotypes or variants with higher CBD (possibly the Tangerine × The Hook lineage or a unique cut). Leafly’s profile for “Bubba x Fire” (Starburst OG) intriguingly listed ~8% CBD alongside ~11% THC​leafly.com – suggesting either a lab anomaly or a special phenotype that was balanced. Additionally, ILGM’s data shows a range of ~4% CBD in some Starburst examples​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. These are likely outliers. The vast majority of Orange Starburst on dispensary shelves will be THC-rich and CBD-trace. If patients require CBD, this strain isn’t a reliable source unless specifically labeled as a high-CBD phenotype.

• Other Cannabinoids: CBG has been noted in small amounts (ILGM: 0.06%–0.77% CBG)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com, which is common for many strains. CBC, CBN, etc., are minimal unless the flower is aged. In extracts, the THC percentage can effectively reach 70-80% with corresponding terpene percentages around 5-10%, making Orange Starburst concentrates extremely potent.

Medical Benefits: The unique effect profile lends Orange Starburst to several therapeutic uses:

• Mood Disorders: The uplifting and euphoric properties make this strain excellent for combating depression and anxiety. Patients report it instills a positive mindset and “helps with anxiety and stress”​allbud.com without the paranoia that some strong sativas induce. The focus and clarity can also assist those with attention deficit issues or when fatigue-related depression is an issue.

• Pain Relief: As a hybrid with caryophyllene and high THC, Orange Starburst can act as an analgesic. Users with chronic pain (back pain, migraines, neuropathy) have found relief, especially as the body high kicks in​allbud.com. It’s not as sedating as a pure indica, so it can relieve pain while still allowing daytime activity in moderate doses. The anti-inflammatory potential (from caryophyllene binding to CB2 receptors) may help with conditions like arthritis.

• Headaches: Interestingly, the Leafly description mentioned it’s used for acute headache pain​leafly.com. The combination of vascular relaxation (from pinene and THC) and pain distraction from euphoria can indeed alleviate migraines or tension headaches for some users.

• Insomnia (in higher doses): Later in the experience, Orange Starburst can induce sleep – “finally fall asleep” at the end of the high​allbud.com. Medical patients with insomnia or restlessness at night could use a strong dose; the strain’s initial uplift won’t last too long, and the comedown is very sedative. Additionally, the absence of heavy munchies for some is a bonus (the Stoned Coast reviewer noted “I didn’t get the munchies… I did get thirsty though”​stonedcoast.blog, which for some is preferable to raiding the fridge).

• Other Uses: Anecdotally, some find it helps with focus (so possibly ADHD) due to that clear-headed phase. It can also be mildly aphrodisiac or creative for some individuals, thanks to mood elevation. The presence of pinene means it might not impair short-term memory as much as other strains (pinene is known to counteract THC’s memory effects). The strain’s ability to induce laughter and stress relief makes it a candidate for social anxiety or simply unwinding after high-pressure days.

Side Effects: As with most high-THC strains, common side effects include dry mouth and dry eyes​leafly.com. It’s wise to stay hydrated (as one user mentioned, it made them appropriately thirsty which helped them avoid snacking excessively​stonedcoast.blog). In higher doses or for inexperienced users, dizziness or a slight anxious/paranoid edge can occur – although many reports claim Orange Starburst is less likely to induce paranoia than other energetic strains, likely due to its balanced nature. One AllBud review did express disappointment and said it was “not even worth smoking” and akin to a cheap haze​allbud.com – though this was an outlier view, possibly due to that user’s batch or tolerance. Generally, start low if you’re new: a single hit or two from a joint or vaporizer might be enough to gauge the effects, given some users’ remarks of strength (“feel it in knees off one hit”​allbud.com).

In summary, Orange Starburst’s effects offer a joyous ride from head high to body stone. It captures the “up then down” balance that many hybrid lovers seek. As one reviewer succinctly put it: “strong head buzz and relaxing body buzz, love this strain”​allbud.com. Medical users can find relief without total sedation (in moderate doses), and recreational users get a flavorful, multifaceted high that can enhance both activity and relaxation in turn.

Cultivation Information (Flowering, Yield, Climate, Difficulty)

For growers, Orange Starburst can be a rewarding strain, combining reasonable hardiness, fast flowering, and solid yields. Here’s a breakdown of cultivation traits:

• Growth Structure: Orange Starburst tends to grow in the typical hybrid structure – medium height with vigorous branching. Indoors, plants usually range 3.5 to 4 feet if untopped, but can be trained or topped to bush out​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Outdoors, given space and long veg, they can reach 6–7 feet tall or more​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. The branches are strong enough to hold dense buds (Bubba Kush heritage gives a stout frame), but later in flower some support (stakes or trellis) is wise to prevent any snapping from heavy colas. The internodal spacing is moderate – not too tight, which helps with airflow in the canopy, but close enough to yield dense clusters of buds.

• Flowering Time: One of the highlights for cultivators is the quick flowering period. Orange Starburst can finish in about 7–8 weeks (49–56 days) of 12/12 bloom indoors​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Many growers harvest around day 55 and get optimal potency and flavor. This is faster than the average hybrid, thanks likely to the Bubba Kush influence (an indica that often finishes ~8 weeks). Some phenotypes (especially those with more sativa influence) might go a full 8 weeks or slightly longer, but it’s uncommon to need more than 60 days. Outdoors, expect to harvest by early October in the Northern Hemisphere (late September even, for faster phenos). This early finish can be advantageous for avoiding frost or fall rains. In a warm climate, multiple outdoor cycles (dep or early planting) could be achieved.

• Yield: Orange Starburst offers above-average yields when grown with care. Indoors, under a 600W or equivalent LED, yields of 8–12 oz per plant are common, and with high yielding phenos or longer veg, up to ~18–24 oz per plant is achievable​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. ILGM data suggests 8–24 oz per square meter for photoperiod plants indoors​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com – a wide range due to grow methods. Under ScrOG or SOG, growers can push it toward the higher end. Outdoors, with sunlight and big root space, 1–4 pounds per plant is possible in ideal conditions​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Typical outdoor yield might be around a pound per plant. A lot of bud weight comes from the density of the nugs – Orange Starburst buds are compact and “frosty, dense” as noted by reviews​stonedcoast.blog​stonedcoast.blog. Importantly, the strain doesn’t produce a ton of fluff: “Impressive buds with little lumber,” meaning good calyx-to-leaf ratio, was a grower’s observation​allbud.com. This means less trimming effort and more salable flower.

• Climate & Environment: This strain prefers a warm, slightly humid climate (mediterranean-like). During vegetative growth, it enjoys temps around 75–80°F and moderate humidity (55–65%). In flowering, keeping humidity around 40–50% will protect those dense buds from mold. Fortunately, Orange Starburst has shown some resistance to mold and bugs​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com – likely thanks to hardy genetics – but it’s not immune. Good airflow is key, especially late flower. Outdoors, it thrives in zones where fall is dry. Its relatively early finish helps dodge mold season. It can be grown in greenhouse or indoor with equal success.

• Training: Orange Starburst responds well to training techniques. Topping and LST (low-stress training) can create a bushier plant with multiple colas, which the plant can support. It also does well in Sea of Green (SOG) setups​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com because it has a dominant main cola structure if left untopped – growers can flower small clones at high density and get uniform spear colas. If doing SOG, ensure adequate pruning of lower growth (lollipop) to direct energy to the top bud. SCROG (screen of green) can maximize yield from a longer veg’d plant by spreading branches; Orange Starburst’s flexible branches adapt to bending under a net. It also clones relatively easily (on par with other hybrids) – taking cuttings from a healthy mother plant will usually yield roots in 7–14 days with standard cloning practices.

• Nutrient Needs: Though specific feeding will depend on growing medium and method, Orange Starburst is not particularly finicky. It can take a moderate to high feeding regime. Many growers treat it like an OG Kush hybrid – meaning it likes Calcium/Magnesium (Cal-Mag) supplements and a robust PK boost in mid-flower to build weight. However, it’s wise to watch nitrogen levels in late veg/early flower: Bubba Kush genetics can sometimes be prone to nitrogen sensitivity (too much N can darken leaves or cause minor tip burn). Growers often report success using organic soil methods, noting excellent terpene results. In hydro or coco, ensure a good flush at end of flowering to preserve the clean candy flavor.

• Difficulty: Overall, Orange Starburst is considered a moderately easy strain to grow, especially for those with a bit of experience. ILGM rates the growth difficulty as “easy” (for skilled growers)​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com. Beginners might face a learning curve in managing the plant’s vigor and ensuring mold doesn’t form in those tight colas, but basic good practices will suffice. It’s not as temperamental as pure sativas or landrace indicas; it tolerates training, bounces back from minor mistakes, and doesn’t require any unusual care. One thing to note is that the stretch during the first 2–3 weeks of flower is moderate – expect plants to roughly double in height by end of stretch. This is easier to manage than high-stretch strains.

• Phenotype Variations: Growers from seed might see some variation. Some plants might lean more Fire OG (taller, more stretch, slightly longer flower, a bit more lemon-fuel in aroma) whereas others lean Bubba (shorter, very fast finish ~7 wks, more coffee/pine notes in aroma). If growing from seed stock labeled “Starburst” (rather than a clone), check breeder info because, as discussed, lineage could differ.

In essence, cultivating Orange Starburst can be very rewarding – you’re treated to fast-finishing, trichome-laden buds with a unique smell that will make your garden stand out. It’s a strain where the bag appeal and yield satisfy commercial growers, yet the terpene richness and high quality satisfy craft growers and personal stash curators. As one grower review summed up: “The high comes on fast and lasts. Perfect for joints—very smooth smoke.”​allbud.com And another simply rated the grow and product as “Good gooood stuff.”​allbud.com.

Hash and Rosin Production Performance

One arena where Orange Starburst truly shines is in the production of solventless concentrates (hash and rosin). The strain’s resin characteristics make it a favorite for making ice-water hash (bubble hash) and subsequent rosin pressing. Here are the highlights of its performance in this domain:

• Trichome Structure: Successful hash-making largely depends on trichome morphology – and Orange Starburst has the right traits. Hash makers look for capitate-stalked trichomes with large, bulbous heads that break off easily​lowtemp-plates.com​lowtemp-plates.com. Starburst OG tends to develop such large trichome heads, likely influenced by its Kush lineage. These heads freeze and agitate off readily during ice water extraction. A Lowtemp Industries guide on best hash strains explicitly lists Starburst OG as one of the top strains for bubble hash production​lowtemp-plates.com, which is a strong endorsement from professional extractors.

• Hash Yield: While specific yield percentages can vary, Orange Starburst is known to be a “washer”, meaning it produces a good return of hash from fresh frozen material. Some hashmakers report above-average yields of high-grade (90μ-120μ) hash. In practical terms, if a strain typically yields 3-5% (of starting weight) in full-melt hash, Starburst OG can often hit the higher end of that or beyond. It’s not in the crazy range of something like GMO (which can yield >5%), but it’s solid. Smokey’s Solventless must have been confident in its hash yield to create a product specifically named Orange Starburst – indeed, Smokey’s breeder of that cross noted the project was “hash focused” with yield in mind​instagram.com. Another anecdote: on Reddit r/rosin, a user showcased Starburst OG 40μ rosin, implying they were even able to get use out of the smaller trichome heads, and mentioned washing different micron ranges with good results​instagram.com. This reinforces that most of Orange Starburst’s trichomes are of useful size and robustness.

• Rosin Quality: The rosin made from Orange Starburst hash is typically top-tier “shelf-grade”. It often comes out a beautiful blonde or gold color with a wet batter or budder consistency. Smokey’s Orange Starburst live rosin was described as a “golden-blonde, buttery landscape, shimmering with terpene pools”​gasstationofficial.com – basically hash porn for concentrate enthusiasts. This indicates the resin has a high terpene fraction that creates a saucy, glossy texture (very desirable, often referred to as “greasy” rosin). In terms of category, if processed carefully, Orange Starburst can produce full-melt (6-star) hash and Tier 1 live rosin that competes with the best. Papas Select (a well-known California hash company) has not publicly released an Orange Starburst, but 710 Labs has offered Starburst 36 (their pheno) in their rosin line, which speaks volumes since 710 Labs only works with strains that hit their quality standards.

• Terpene Retention: The flavor in concentrates is exceptional. Many strains lose nuance when turned to hash or rosin, but Orange Starburst tends to retain its loud terpene profile. Dabbers report the same sweet citrus and candy notes, sometimes even more intense. One hash review (Full Flava Extracts’ Sour Starburst #36 hash) noted “almost like an orange starburst with a splash of diesel” in the aroma​thcclassic.com. Smokey’s rosin review highlighted the “explosion of sweet and sour orange terps” with each hit​gasstationofficial.com. This means Orange Starburst rosin isn’t just potent, but also flavor-forward, making it a treat for connoisseurs who value taste.

• Popularity Among Solventless Brands: Orange Starburst has made rounds among notable hash brands: Smokey’s Solventless (California) released it, DabLogic (Colorado) put out an “Original Orange Starburst” live rosin cartridge​verdenatural.com, and Ogre Farms (Oregon) has single-source Starburst OG rosin on menus​kushklinic.app. It’s also been used in rosin blend projects (e.g., hash holes or mixed micron jams). For example, Fidel’s (a known hash-hole maker) includes Starburst OG on his list of recommended rosin strains​fidelsclothings.com, and specifically cites it among high-yield flavorful strains for pressing. Additionally, the Oregon Growers Cup 2024 saw Entourage’s Starburst 36 win 1st in Solventless Hash​cannabiscupwinners.com, proving its merit in competition.

• Hash Form (Dry Sift/Bubble): While most focus is on bubble hash (ice water), Orange Starburst’s resin is also conducive to dry sifting. Some IG posts show sift rosin from Sour Starburst (Sour Dubb × Starburst OG) with stellar results​instagram.com. The resin heads have robust walls, meaning they don’t easily grease up and stick during sifting, and they melt nicely once collected.

• Consistency: As rosin, depending on cure, Orange Starburst can range from a “cold cure budder” to a more sugary or saucy texture. Cold curing (jar curing the rosin) often results in a batter that is easy to work with. In a fresh press state, it likely appears as a clear shatter or taffy, but will “butter up” quickly due to high terpene content. Smokey’s provided theirs as a cold cure (buttery) because of those “terpene pools” visible​gasstationofficial.com. This consistency is highly sought by consumers (easy to dab and full of flavor).

• Yields in Rosin Pressing: If one washes Orange Starburst and then presses into rosin, the overall yield from fresh frozen to rosin could be in the ballpark of ~4-6% (meaning 1000g of fresh frozen yields ~40-60g of rosin), though this can vary. It’s considered worth it – many strains yield less. A referenced list of good rosin strains includes Starburst OG​fidelsclothings.com, implying it meets the efficiency threshold.

In practical terms, if you’re a grower or producer aiming for solventless extracts, Orange Starburst is a wise choice. Its resin quantity and quality are proven, and the end product practically sells itself with such unique flavor. It checks all the boxes: great return, great taste, great effect. As a result, many extractors will specifically seek this strain or its phenos for making premium hash products.

One caveat: because Orange Starburst flower is so aromatic and enjoyable on its own, some cultivators face the “dilemma” of flower vs. hash – it’s valuable either way. But given the market trends, a lot of growers lean toward extracting at least a portion of their Orange Starburst harvest, since solventless concentrates made from it can fetch top dollar and attract aficionados.

Current Market Trends and Pricing

Market Availability: Orange Starburst is somewhat of a boutique strain, but it has been gaining presence in legal markets. It’s not as mass-produced as staples like Blue Dream or GG4; instead, you’ll find it through curated dispensaries or brands focusing on exotic genetics.

• In places like California, Orange Starburst (or phenos like Starburst 36) appear on menus of delivery services and high-end dispensaries, often in limited drops. For example, 710 Labs offered “Starburst 36 #1” as a limited release eighth (which quickly sold out)​flowercompany.com​flowercompany.com. This suggests it’s in demand among connoisseurs. Delivery club Flower Co listed it at ~$38 for 3.5g (member price) and gave it a 4.5/5 rating from customers​flowercompany.com​flowercompany.com.

• In Colorado, some dispensaries (often medical or those known for quality) have carried Orange Starburst flowers. It may not be widespread, but concentrate form via DabLogic (Verde Natural) was available in rosin carts at around $35 for 1g​verdenatural.com​verdenatural.com, indicating enough cultivation to supply extraction.

• In Maine and the Northeast, as noted, Grass Roots (ME) cultivates their own Orange Starburst cross, selling 3.5g jars for around $40​dutchie.com (at ~25.8% THC). East Coast “exotic” circles have shown interest, with NY growers like Fu’s Flowers growing a version (though his “Starburst Orange” was Rainbow Belts-based, it reflects the demand for orange-candy terps in that market)​thehighestcritic.com​thehighestcritic.com.

• Online/Seed Market: Rocket Seeds and others sell “Starburst OG” feminized seeds around $65 for 5-pack​rocketseeds.com, but again, buyer beware that the genetics might be a re-creation.

Trends: The overall trend is that Orange/citrus flavored strains have been on the rise, as a counterpoint to the ubiquitous Cake/Gelato cultivars. Orange Starburst fits this trend perfectly – offering a distinct flavor that stands out in a sea of dessert strains. Additionally, with the continued popularity of solventless extracts in 2024–2025, strains like Orange Starburst that yield great rosin have seen increased cultivation. In competitive hash events (Secret Cup, Ego Clash), having something like Starburst OG in your lineup can be a differentiator due to its terpene profile. Thus, more growers, especially small-batch craft growers, are devoting space to Orange Starburst to cater to this hash/connoisseur market.

Consumer Popularity: Among consumers, Orange Starburst is often a word-of-mouth favorite. It might not have the mainstream name recognition of “Sour Diesel” or “OG Kush”, but those who try it often become repeat buyers. Online forums show users seeking it out – e.g., a Reddit thread where someone said “my buddy said [a certain strain] tastes like orange starburst and I have been wanting to grab some ever since”​reddit.com, demonstrating the allure of that flavor. The strain enjoys a strong reputation with an average rating of 4.5 stars across various platforms​leafly.com​allbud.com. Many reviews call it one of their top strains due to the balanced high and taste.

Pricing: As outlined in the table, Orange Starburst commands premium pricing. To summarize:

• Flower: Typically around $35–$60 for an eighth depending on region (lower end being member deals or competitive West Coast markets, higher end being East Coast or dispensaries with markups). The Blue Sky Maine menu shows $40/eighth​dutchie.com, which is standard for top shelf indoor. In a Canadian context, one site listed it absurdly cheap (likely an anomaly) at $69/oz​bloomsupply.se, but that’s not reflective of normal pricing. Generally, expect to pay a similar price as you would for other hype strains (Gelato, Runtz, etc.) – Orange Starburst sits in that company quality-wise.

• Concentrates: Live rosin or hash made from Orange Starburst often retails at the upper end of the price spectrum. For instance, 1g of Orange Starburst Persy Live Rosin could be $80-$100 in California’s adult-use shops (before tax). A Colorado rosin cart at $35 is actually a good deal, possible due to lower production costs or sales​verdenatural.com. Traditional BHO live resin made from the strain (if any producers run it) would be cheaper, maybe $30-$50/g. But it’s the solventless where it really holds value. Consumers are willing to pay for the unique terpene experience – Smokey’s limited drop jars likely sold at a premium (and sold out). As a datapoint, Whole Melt Extracts (a gray-market vendor) offers Starburst OG rosin as a “premium extract” emphasizing its quality, aligning with a top-tier positioning​wholemeltextracts.us​wholemeltextracts.us.

Brand Collaborations: We haven’t seen a huge brand-name collab specific to Orange Starburst (like no Cookies or Jungle Boys strain by that name yet). However, some “house brands” and smaller collaborations have popped up. For example, Trulieve (FL) and Sunshine Cannabis did a cart called “Orange Starburst” in some markets, and local concentrate brands like Feelin’ Frosty or Papa’s Select could incorporate it if sourcing allows. If the popularity continues to climb, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a major brand do a one-off release or a collab with a breeder (similar to how Seed Junky/Capulator collabs happen).

Future Outlook: Given its award wins and fanbase, Orange Starburst is likely to remain in the rotation of sought-after strains. It’s part of a broader movement of “candy strains” that are not just sweet, but also complex (much like how Zkittlez gained fame earlier). As long as consumers chase new flavors, Orange Starburst’s mix of nostalgia (everyone knows Starburst candies) and quality effects will keep demand high. On the West Coast, it may transition from a “hype strain” to a staple for hash connoisseurs. On the East Coast, as markets mature, more growers might pick it up to differentiate from the common Gelato crosses.

In summary, market trends favor Orange Starburst in the premium segment – it’s a strain that fetches top dollar and attracts informed consumers. It might not flood the bargain shelves, but in the exotics and extracts market, it has carved out a valuable niche.

Popularity and Consumer/Connoisseur Appeal

Consumer Popularity: Orange Starburst enjoys a strong reputation among consumers, especially those who prioritize flavor and a balanced high. While it’s not as famous as older staples, it has a “cult classic” status. On major strain databases it consistently rates highly: for instance, Leafly users give it ~4.5/5 and comment on its unique combination of happiness and relaxation​leafly.com. AllBud’s 6 reviews average 4.3/5​allbud.com, with comments like “love this strain” and praise for its immediate effects​allbud.com. Many recreational users who try it once will seek it out again, which speaks to good word-of-mouth appeal.

The strain is particularly loved by those who:

• Dislike the racy anxiety of some sativas but still want an uplifting effect.

• Are bored of the ubiquitous vanilla-sweet dessert strains and want something fruity yet gassy.

• Enjoy exotic terpene profiles and “chase flavors” in their cannabis experience. For these users, Orange Starburst is often rated as one of the tastiest strains they’ve had.

One reviewer mentioned “It’s one of those flowers that upset you when it’s gone”, indicating how memorable the experience is​thehighestcritic.com. That sentiment is echoed by many enthusiasts – they savor Orange Starburst and miss it when it’s not in rotation.

Connoisseur Appeal: Among cannabis connoisseurs (people who might be called “cannabis sommeliers” or just very experienced users), Orange Starburst checks a lot of boxes:

• Complex Terpene Profile: Connoisseurs often talk about depth of aroma. Orange Starburst provides layered scents (sweet, sour, pine, fuel) that delight the sophisticated palate​thehighestcritic.com. A seasoned user can pick up the subtle notes of pine and earth under the citrus candy top note, making it a strain that invites appreciation much like a fine wine.

• Smoothness and Quality of High: High-tolerance users appreciate that Orange Starburst can still cut through and provide a noticeable effect (thanks to high THC) but does so in an “entourage” way – meaning the terpenes modulate the high to be enjoyable, not just a bland strong THC effect. The combination of focused head high + relaxed body is something connoisseurs note as “well-rounded.” For example, one experienced user on AllBud noted it was “strong, tasty, energizing… Good good stuff”​allbud.com and another highlighted “the high comes on fast and lasts”​allbud.com with smooth smoke, implying a quality experience.

• Hash Making & Collecting: As discussed, connoisseurs who are into hash/rosin revere strains like this. Some will specifically collect jars of Orange Starburst rosin or seek out drops from producers like Smokey’s or 710 Labs. In the hash community, Orange Starburst (and phenos like Starburst 36) have a buzz – it’s often mentioned alongside other top flavors like Papaya, GMO, Zkittlez, etc., as part of the “flavor arsenal.” Hash connoisseurs might swap samples and Orange Starburst always gets positive reviews for flavor.

Social Media & Community: On platforms like Reddit and Instagram, Orange Starburst isn’t the most hashtagged strain, but whenever it pops up, it draws interest. For instance, an Instagram post of a beautiful Orange Starburst rosin will likely have comments asking “When/where can I get this?!” The r/rosin community had posts ranking Starburst OG rosin among personal top favorites​reddit.com. These niche communities amplify its popularity in the subculture.

Verified Reviews – Highlights:

• “Actually it’s impressive in flavor and aroma… I enjoy the relaxed feeling – not like a strong indica but subtle.” – (AllBud user review, 2024)​allbud.com. This captures what many feel: potent yet not overwhelming.

• “Strong head buzz and relaxing body buzz, effects almost as soon as you exhale.” – (AllBud user, 2023)​allbud.com.

• “Uplifting and moderately euphoric… minimally fuzzy, so responsible parenting can still happen easily. Comes with a light head and body calmness, very switchable feel.” – (Stoned Coast blog review)​stonedcoast.blog​stonedcoast.blog, highlighting its functional high.

• “It really doesn’t get much better [for flavor]. Sweet and sour citrus and aromas of diesel and pine… rush of euphoric uplift… then you want to sink into a cushion.” – (FlowerCompany product description)​flowercompany.com​flowercompany.com – a testament from a retailer perspective combining consumer feedback.

• “One of my favorites this year… nose is undeniable and unforgettable. Upset you when it’s gone. Truly a keeper.” – (Highest Critic review of Starburst Orange)​thehighestcritic.com, albeit a slightly different pheno, underscores the memorable nature of the strain.

Popularity Among Growers: On the cultivator side, those who have grown it often become fans too. It’s somewhat popular on grow forums – although not as discussed as some strains, the ones who do run it often post pictures of extremely frosty buds and report that “the smell is insane, like candy and skunk.” Growers who make their own extracts especially love it, as they can smoke the flower and also turn trim or part of the crop into personal-use hash of great quality.

Demand vs. Supply: Because supply is limited (not grown by every large-scale producer), demand often outstrips supply. In dispensaries, Orange Starburst drops can sell out quickly. It’s one of those strains that might not be on the menu year-round, so consumers keep an eye out. The high Leafly search interest (people searching for Starburst OG info) also indicates many hear about it and want to try it.

Cannabis Competitions: While not a household name strain, Orange Starburst showing up in competitions (and winning in extract categories) also signals that judges and experts hold it in high regard. This tends to trickle down – after a big competition win, more people look it up, thus boosting its profile among the cannabis savvy.

In conclusion, Orange Starburst’s popularity is strongest among enthusiasts and the quality-focused segment of the market. It may not have the broad mainstream fame (since it’s not as heavily marketed or as widely grown), but in the circles where it’s known, it’s very highly regarded. As more people seek out distinctive terpene experiences, Orange Starburst’s renown is likely to grow. It’s fair to say Orange Starburst is on its way to becoming a modern classic for flavor connoisseurs.

Known Phenotypes and Crossbreeds Involving Orange Starburst

Phenotypes (Cuts) of Orange Starburst: Because Orange Starburst has been propagated mainly by clone, certain elite phenotypes have been identified and even named/numbered by growers:

• Starburst OG “Original” Cut: This is the widely circulated cut believed to be the true Fire OG × Pre-98 Bubba expression. It’s balanced, usually tests ~20-25% THC with ~1% CBD (some CBD content perhaps from Bubba). Often just labeled Starburst OG, this cut is what you’d get if you sourced “Orange Starburst” clones from a reputable nursery or collective. Effects as described throughout this report apply to this.

• Starburst #36 (Starburst 36): This phenotype gained fame through 710 Labs and Capulator. It appears that Capulator crossed Starburst OG with an old strain ’97 KC36 (which is a Dutch indica line) to create Starburst 36 F1, and one standout pheno from that was propagated – possibly the one 710 Labs uses. However, there’s some ambiguity: some sources simply refer to “Starburst #36” as a particular cut of Starburst OG (not a cross). In any case, Starburst 36 in California refers to an Orange Starburst-type profile: “sweet and sour citrus with diesel/pine” and sativa-leaning high​flowercompany.com. It won awards in Oregon as mentioned. So Starburst #36 can be thought of as an award-winning phenotype that carries even more vivid flavor and perhaps slightly more sativa effect. It’s possible the “36” refers to a particular selection or backcross generation.

• Starburst Orange (Fu’s Flowers pheno): Not to be confused with Orange Starburst, Starburst Orange was a name given by a NY grower (Fu’s Flowers) to a Rainbow Belts phenotype that had an orange-candy flavor​thehighestcritic.com. Its lineage (Zkittlez × Moonbow) is totally different, but the terps were so similar to orange Starburst candy that he named it accordingly. This is a reminder that sometimes phenos of other strains get nicknamed “Starburst” for their flavor. But this is a distinct plant, not an Orange Starburst descendant.

• Grassroots Orange Starburst (Maine cut): This is actually a different genetic cross (Doughnut ’n Cider × Turpee Slurpee) developed by Grassroots in Maine​stonedcoast.blog, but since they market it as Orange Starburst, it’s effectively a unique phenotype for that region. It reportedly has the hallmark orange-candy aroma and a similar balanced effect, showing that breeders try to recreate that profile.

• Sour Starburst #36: Possibly a phenotype or series in Oregon (Full Flava Extracts had a Sour Starburst hash). One description said Sour Starburst = Sour Diesel × Starburst #36​thehighestcritic.com, implying a cross that intensifies the sour/gas aspect. Sour Starburst #36 specifically might be a pheno from that cross – the number suggests multiple phenos were tested.

In short, the Orange Starburst umbrella includes a few notable cuts – the original, and select cuts like Starburst 36 that are coveted by specific brands.

Crossbreeds Involving Orange Starburst:

Breeders have incorporated Orange Starburst (Starburst OG) into new hybrids to combine its traits with others. Some known examples:

• Apex (Starburst OG × Do-Si-Dos) – byCompound Genetics/Apex Extractions. This cross took the candy-gas of Starburst OG and combined it with Do-Si-Dos (OGKB Girl Scout Cookies × Face Off OG). Apex (the product) won the 2019 NorCal Cup, indicating the cross yielded fantastic concentrate-friendly results​cannabiscup.com. Seeds of Starburst OG × Dosidos might not be commercially available (it could have been a collaboration), but the success of Apex shows the potential.

• In-House Genetics Line: In-House, known for polyhybrids, at one point listed Starburst OG × Crypteen (Crypteen is one of their strains)​percysgrowroom.com. They likely were aiming to mix Starburst OG’s terps with something new. Results of that haven’t been widely publicized, but if released, it would produce various phenos—some might lean to Starburst.

• Capulator’s hybrids: Besides the Starburst 36 cross (with KC36) that won Ego Clash, Capulator also teased a cross called Terpish Deight, which he described as combining Tropicana Cookies and Starburst OG for candy strains with great hash potential​instagram.com. (The name is a play on “Turkish Delight” and terps.) He noted it brought out the best of both parents and had “great washing/hash potential”​instagram.com. This indicates Orange Starburst is valued in breeding circles for passing on hash-friendly resin and flavor.

• Sundae Driver × Starburst OG (unconfirmed): Some forum rumors mention crosses like this done by underground breeders to add color or creaminess to Starburst’s profile, but no official strain name known.

• Pink Starburst (by Anesia Seeds): Not a cross with Orange Starburst but often confused due to the name. Pink Starburst by Anesia is actually (DJ Short Blueberry × Headband) × AJ Sour Diesel BX3, a complex polyhybrid. It reportedly has a candy sweetness and very high THC. It’s worth mentioning because sometimes people assume Pink Starburst is a variation of Orange Starburst – it’s not, it’s a separate line that happened to choose a similar name (likely also referencing the candy).

• Ztarburst (aka Starburst Z): Some newer genetics combine Zkittlez with Starburst. For instance, Starburst Z (Starburst OG × Zkittlez) would logically yield extremely candy-flavored results. A strain “Ztarburst” has been mentioned on dispensary sites​reddit.com​tbeezle.com, possibly a phenotype or cross involving Zkittlez – perhaps by crossing Zkittlez with something like Starburst #36. One dispensary listed Starburst Zkittlez smalls. These aren’t mainstream yet but show how breeders are playing in the candy flavor sandbox.

• Punch Cake × Sour Starburst – This is the Smokey’s Solventless cross that created their Orange Starburst hash cultivar​gasstationofficial.com. Punch Cake likely brings grape/berry notes (Purple Punch lineage) and Sour Starburst (which they had from another project) brings sour diesel and candy. The result, Smokey’s Orange Starburst, is essentially a new strain that exists primarily as live rosin rather than flower on the market. It’s an interesting case of breeding specifically for extract outputs.

• Orange Peel × Starburst OG (fictional example): Not a real known cross, but if someone were to intensify the orange aspect, they might cross with something like Agent Orange or Tangie; none known widely, but it wouldn’t be surprising if future “Orange Starburst Haze” or similar hybrids pop up.

Given Orange Starburst’s attributes, breeders often cross it with strains that have:

• Complementary flavors (e.g., other fruit or candy strains) to create unique terpene combos.

• Strong structure or potency (e.g., crossing with Cookies or Gelato lines) to combine bag appeal and flavor.

• Hash-oriented strains (like GMO, Papaya, etc.) to breed the ultimate hash plant.

For example, a cross with GMO might yield something with garlic-citrus candy – this is speculative but exactly the kind of mashups modern breeders attempt.

Phenos in Commercial Products: Sometimes dispensaries will label phenotypes. For instance, if they pheno-hunted Orange Starburst seeds (from whatever source), you might see Orange Starburst #5 vs #11 on menus, indicating different phenos with slightly different traits (one more citrus, one more earthy, etc.). However, since the strain is mostly clone, this is less common compared to seed strains.

Stability: As a clone line, Orange Starburst itself is stable as what it is. In seed form, stability depends on breeder – it’s not a heavily inbred line, so seed versions could be variable. That’s why most prefer the known clones or cuts like #36.

To summarize, Orange Starburst has inspired a variety of phenotypes and spin-off crosses in the cannabis breeding world:

• The core clone is preserved and passed around for its known qualities.

• Breeders use it to create new candy-flavored or hash-centric hybrids, some of which have achieved acclaim (Apex concentrate, Ego Clash winner, Oregon Cup winner).

• The name is sometimes borrowed for unrelated but flavor-similar phenos (Rainbow Belts pheno in NY, etc.), which is a testament to how iconic that orange-candy profile has become.

For consumers looking at strain names, it’s wise to note the lineage if you see something like “Ztarburst” or “Sour Starburst” – it might be a relative, not the exact Orange Starburst, but likely will share some flavor notes. And if you see Orange Starburst in a cross, expect that signature sweetness and resin production to hopefully carry through into the new hybrid.

Awards, Notable Appearances, and Collaborations

While Orange Starburst itself hasn’t headlined a Cannabis Cup in the flower category, it has made impressive showings in major competitions and industry events, mostly through derived products and crosses:

• High Times Cannabis Cup (NorCal 2019): Apex – Starburst OG x Dosido won 1st Place for Hybrid Concentrate​cannabiscup.com. This is a big deal: out of all concentrates, the one involving Starburst OG genetics took the top spot. It indicates that judges (often industry experts) were blown away by the flavor/effect of that extract. The trophy technically goes to the extractor (Apex) and they named the strain lineage on the entry. This put Starburst OG on the radar of many, as it was explicitly mentioned in the win. (2nd and 3rd places in that category were Kandy Kush and Strawberry Banana concentrates​cannabiscup.com, showing the Starburst OG cross beat out other sweet terp strains.)

• Ego Clash 2021: Ego Clash is a private, invite-only hash competition that’s highly respected among hash makers. In 2021, a strain labeled Starburst 36 F1 reportedly took 1st place (likely in a solventless or flower category, but Ego Clash is typically a hash event). This was mentioned in a breeder post about limited seeds being released due to its win​instagram.com. The team behind it included well-known breeders (Capulator was involved). Winning Ego Clash is a strong validation for any strain’s hash and terpene quality. This victory undoubtedly helped propagate the Starburst 36 cut and made it sought after by hash connoisseurs.

• Oregon Growers Cup 2024: In this more public competition, Entourage’s Starburst 36 achieved 1st Place in Solventless (Hash) and also 3rd Place in Pods/AIO (vape)​cannabiscupwinners.com​cannabiscupwinners.com. This shows the strain’s versatility – winning in a jarred rosin category and also placing as a vape cart. Multiple awards in the same event highlight how it impressed judges in different forms. Oregon’s a competitive market with lots of craft entries, so a double win is notable.

• Local/Regional Cups: It’s possible Orange Starburst cuts have won or placed in smaller regional contests or dispensary awards (though documentation is scarce). Given its performance, one could imagine it doing well in “People’s Choice” type cups where flavor sways judges.

• Notable Brand Appearances:

  • 710 Labs: As mentioned, 710 Labs (a high-profile California brand) released Starburst 36 #1 as part of their flower line and possibly extracts. 710 Labs generally only works with hyped or proven genetics (like Kush Mints, Gelonade, etc.), so including Starburst 36 means they regard it as top-shelf. It being sold through Flower Company indicates it had enough supply to reach consumers.

  • Smokey’s Solventless: A California hash maker, Smokey’s did a whole marketing push for their Orange Starburst rosin​gasstationofficial.com. That itself is a collaboration of sorts – Smokey’s worked with a breeder to cross and grow the material. Their review on Gas Station gave it high praise. Smokey’s brand association lends trendiness; their drops are followed by the hash community.

  • DabLogic (Verde Natural): In Colorado, DabLogic (the solventless arm of Verde Natural) put out an “Original Orange Starburst” all-in-one rosin vape​verdenatural.com. DabLogic is known for sourcing unique strains (often from their own grow) and naming them if they aren’t widely known. The fact that they had Orange Starburst means one of their phenohunts or clone acquisitions was of this strain. It implies it made enough impact to be a named product in their lineup of only a handful of SKUs.

  • Ogre Farms: A California/Arizona solventless producer – they had Starburst OG rosin on their menu​kushklinic.app (not necessarily an award, but notable as a single source farm featuring the strain).

  • Others: There haven’t been highly publicized collaborations like say “Cookies × Orange Starburst” or celebrity endorsements yet (at least as of 2025). But the strain has organically found its way into the portfolios of respected growers and extract artists.

• Industry Buzz: Sometimes rather than formal awards, a strain’s notoriety at events or in media is telling. For example, at Emerald Cup or MJBizCon, people might talk up Orange Starburst if they sample it. It was reportedly one of the strains that stood out in Respect My Region’s West Coast reviews, being noted for an “orange Starburst” flavor in some entries (they likened a Sherman #7 to a vibrant orange starburst profile in a review)​respectmyregion.com. So it’s becoming a reference flavor.

• Brand Collaborations: We haven’t seen big brand collabs specifically, but in theory, an Orange Starburst collab would involve someone like a candy licensing or a special product drop. Given the crackdown on strain names that infringe trademarks, it’s interesting Orange Starburst hasn’t been forced to change its name. If it ever got super mainstream, it might face pressure like “Skittles” did to become Zkittlez. The blog Stoned Coast jokingly mused it might one day be called “Orange Ztarburst” or something to avoid trademark issues​stonedcoast.blog. As of now though, even some official sources (Ethos, etc.) openly call it Starburst OG​ethoscannabis.com. That suggests it hasn’t triggered any legal ire (Starburst candy might be less vigilant than Skittles’s owner was).

• Secondary Awards: Many times, user polls or magazine lists (not formal competitions) feature strains. While I don’t have a citation, hypothetically Orange Starburst could appear in a “Top 10 Strains of 2024” list by a publication or be noted by influencers as an up-and-comer.

Merging with Trendy Lines: Another area of note: Orange Starburst is starting to mingle with other hype genetics. For instance, Archive Seeds has a strain “Tropical Starburst” (which involves their Tropicali line)​tbeezle.com. So it’s creeping into the genetics of known breeders. If Archive or Seed Junky were to make a major release using Orange Starburst, that would be a notable event in the strain’s “career.” Keep an eye out for names that include Starburst or candy themes – it often indicates a tip of the hat to this strain’s influence.

In summary, Orange Starburst has earned accolades mostly through the extract world, and those wins have cemented its reputation among the cannabis elite. It’s a strain with trophy-caliber terpenes. While it hasn’t won a High Times Cup for flower, it indirectly snagged a Cup via a concentrate and continues to be a champion in hash competitions. These honors and appearances ensure that Orange Starburst’s name carries weight and is increasingly recognized as a strain associated with quality and innovation in cannabis.

Consumer and Cultivator Reviews (From Verified Sources)

Gathering perspective from those who have grown and used Orange Starburst, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting a few common themes: exceptional flavor, enjoyable effects, and good grow performance. Below are some representative reviews and testimonials from verified sources:

Consumer Reviews:

• 💬 “This strain doesn’t have the outright fruity taste like Runtz, but it has a slight sweet and gassy taste that I find pleasant and strong. Effects almost as soon as you exhale – strong head buzz and relaxing body buzz, love this strain.” – AllBud user review (Jan 2023)​allbud.com.⭐ Rating: 5/5 (favorited). This experienced user compares it to Runtz (another candy strain) and notes Orange Starburst is perhaps less sugary but more balanced with gas. The immediacy of effects and one-two punch of head and body high clearly impressed them.

• 💬 “Uplifting and moderately euphoric, if a bit giggly, but minimally fuzzy, so responsible parenting can still happen easily… It also comes with a light head and body calmness, and a very switchable feel…if I’m up I feel light, if I’m sitting I feel heavy. Didn’t get the munchies with this one.” – StonedCoast.blog review (Sep 2024)​stonedcoast.blog​stonedcoast.blog.⭐ Rating: N/A (descriptive review). The reviewer, presumably a seasoned consumer, highlights how functional the high is – clear enough for daytime tasks (even parenting!) yet relaxing when desired. The lack of munchies is noted as a plus. This aligns with other reports that it’s a “get stuff done then chill later” kind of strain.

• 💬 “Impressive in flavor and aroma… I enjoy the relaxed feeling – not like a strong indica but subtle.” – AllBud user review (Feb 2024)​allbud.com.⭐ Rating: 4/5. A succinct take focusing on flavor/aroma (which many say is standout) and the nature of the relaxation (subtle, not overwhelming).

• 💬 “Strong, tasty, energizing – feel it in your knees off one hit. Good gooood stuff.” – AllBud user “Totti12023” (Jul 2022)​allbud.com.⭐ Rating: 5/5. Brief but telling – the user emphasizes potency (“feel it in your knees” implies a whammy of a hit) and still calls it energizing and delicious. The double “good” underlines how much they liked it.

• 💬 “The scent is a detergent clean linen blend with limonene terpene combined with floral caryophyllene earthy spice and fuel on the grind... The palate: Z’s combination of terps with MoonBow... fruity orange berry myrcene terps. Effects are medium level cerebral... Overall the high lasts ~2 hours. The taste, effects, nose is undeniable and unforgettable.” – Highest Critic review of Starburst Orange (Jan 2023)​thehighestcritic.com​thehighestcritic.com.⭐ Rating: 4.7/5. Although this is a Rainbow Beltz pheno called “Starburst Orange,” the flavor description sounds very similar (orange, spice, fuel). The reviewer praises its complexity and memorability. The “unforgettable” nose and taste echo what Orange Starburst (the original) fans say. It’s a verified reviewer (LetMeSeeWhatUSmokin) giving a near-perfect score, showing that in a blind-ish review context it scored excellently.

• 💬 “Easily the best looking flower I’ve seen from [this grower]... Nice fruity smell with some gas/earthiness underneath. Haven’t smoked it yet so will have to report back on effects.” – Reddit user, r/MichiganCannabis (2021)​reddit.com.⭐ Rating: N/A (initial impression). This indicates that even visually, Orange Starburst can impress with bag appeal (tons of frost, color). The user noted the signature fruit + gas aroma. Follow-up comments (not shown here) often mention that it smoked as good as it looked.

• 💬 Negative: “Save your money and just get some cheap haze... not even worth smoking I swear and way overpriced. ...I definitely taste the lemon but I would not compare it to starbursts or even Runtz. Don’t believe me find out for yourself.” – AllBud user “BennyOgBlanco” (Dec 2021)​allbud.com.⭐ Rating: 1/5. It’s important to note at least one dissenting opinion. This user was very underwhelmed, claiming it’s not special and overpriced. It’s possible he got a poor batch or just didn’t enjoy the profile. They acknowledge the lemon taste but weren’t impressed overall. This is a minority view, but it reminds us that not everyone will love every strain – personal preference and quality of the sample matter. Overall, such negative reviews are scarce for Orange Starburst.

Cultivator/Grower Reviews:

• 🌱 “Impressive buds with little lumber. Tasted the Mexican heritage, cleared my energy up. The high comes on fast and lasts. Perfect for joints — very smooth smoke.” – AllBud grower review (Feb 2022)​allbud.com.This appears to be a grower or at least someone discussing bud structure (“little lumber” = not much stem or leaf). They mention “Mexican heritage” – possibly implying a hint of sativa (Mexican) flavor or effect they noticed, which could be the limonene or pinene reminding of old Acapulco Gold or similar. They praise the smoothness and longevity of the high, and specifically note it’s great in joints (meaning good burn and flavor). That’s an endorsement from a consumption and cultivation standpoint.

• 🌱 “A 9 week strain and I’m pushing 10 weeks.. longer it goes the more she foxtails. So does her sister (more balanced phenotype).” – Reddit r/microgrowery post titled “Orange starburst pheno of Savage Hulk”​reddit.com.This is a bit tangential (someone labeled a pheno as orange starburst for smell in a different strain), but it gives grow insight: If you let Orange Starburst go too long, it can foxtail (buds get spire-like calyx growth). This grower found ~9 weeks was max before that happened. It suggests harvesting on time to avoid diminishing returns, which matches typical advice for Starburst OG (don’t overflower it). It also shows growers actively hunting for that “orange starburst” terpene in various strains.

• 🌱 “She tastes like orange Starburst candy with a bit of Gorilla Glue, absolutely love it!!” – Grower on r/MephHeads reviewing an Orange-utan auto (Mephisto Genetics)​reddit.com.This is a review of a different strain (an autoflower named Orange-utan) but the grower uses “orange Starburst” as the flavor benchmark. It’s evidence that growers and breeders use Orange Starburst’s flavor as a gold standard descriptor (“tastes like orange starburst” is high praise). It indirectly confirms how desirable that taste is in the cultivation scene.

• 🌱 From ILGM research team: “Recommended conditions vary, but some details are consistent – responds well to SOG, some resistance to mold and bugs, you’ll manage if you have experience.”​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com.This is an aggregated grower perspective. It implies multiple grower inputs were considered to reach those conclusions: Orange Starburst is not too hard to grow and thrives in standard setups. “Standard resilience” sums up many growers’ experience – it’s not a diva plant.

• 🌱 Grow Diaries: While a specific Orange Starburst entry isn’t cited, growers on platforms like GrowDiaries who have cultivated similar crosses often comment on the intense smell (“like orange starburst with gas and rotten orange undertones” one diary noted)​growdiaries.com. They also often note the bag appeal and resin: e.g., “covered in trichomes, smells like orange candy”. This aligns with cultivators’ general satisfaction: it’s a strain that’s rewarding to trim because it’s so frosty and fragrant.

Overall Sentiment: Both consumers and cultivators largely rave about Orange Starburst. The average sentiment is that it’s a “must-try” strain for flavor chasers and a “must-grow” for hash makers. It leaves a strong impression:

• Consumers remember its taste and balanced high (“unforgettable”, “undeniable” were words used)​thehighestcritic.com.

• Patients appreciate the multifaceted relief (several reviews mentioned using it for stress, pain, etc., and finding it effective without heavy side effects).

• Growers enjoy the combination of good yields and high quality (it’s somewhat rare to have a strain that pleases both the production side and the end user side equally – Orange Starburst seems to be one).

One could summarize the reviews by saying: Orange Starburst successfully bridges the gap between fun recreational use and serious connoisseur quality. A casual user might pick it up for the candy name and enjoy a great high, while a seasoned user might seek it out for the nuanced terpene experience – and both would be satisfied.

The few criticisms (like the one negative review above) often come down to either personal taste (maybe they expected something else) or possibly getting a subpar batch (improperly grown or stored product can mute the strain’s best attributes). But when fresh, well-grown Orange Starburst is in the hands of consumers, the feedback is nearly unanimously positive.

Finally, reputation among peers: Many budtenders and growers talk about Orange Starburst in glowing terms, so it often comes highly recommended at point of sale. That kind of peer endorsement shows up in how quickly it sells out and how frequently it’s mentioned in “what are you smoking” threads.

In essence, verified reviews confirm Orange Starburst lives up to the hype: “taste 10/10, high 10/10” is a common refrain in less formal language. It’s a strain that, by the accounts of those who know it, earns top marks for its all-around excellence​sativauniversity.com​sativauniversity.com.

Sources:

• Official strain descriptions and lab data (Leafly, AllBud, ILGM)​leafly.com​allbud.com​ilovegrowingmarijuana.com

• Expert reviews (Sativa University, Highest Critic)​sativauniversity.com​thehighestcritic.com

• Verified user reviews (AllBud, Reddit, StonedCoast blog)​allbud.com​stonedcoast.blog

• Breeder and extractor insights (Lowtemp, Fidel’s, Gas Station, Capulator)​lowtemp-plates.com​fidelsclothings.com​gasstationofficial.com​instagram.com

• Market menus and competition results (Cannabis Cup, Oregon Cup, Flower Co.)​cannabiscup.com​cannabiscupwinners.com​flowercompany.com

• Additional context from community forums and publications as cited above.