10 Cannabis Strains for People Who Love Citrus

Love the pucker of lemons, the zing of limes, or the brightness of clementine? Enjoy the following ten cannabis strains with citrus terpenes and aroma compounds!

We get it. There’s just something about citrus-flavored ANYthing that puts a pep in your step and a smile on your face. Especially when that citrus-flavored thing is cannabis! That’s why we’ve put together a list of cannabis strains that are packed with bright citrus aroma compounds. 

We’ve got classics like Sour Tangie and Durban Poison, along with beloved cultivars like White Runtz. Some are sweet, some are herbal, and some have that extra gas, but rest assured, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with our latest discoveries about cannabis flavorants, we’ve reached an entirely new level of aroma authenticity!

We’ve got a citrus-powered terpene profile for EACH of the strains we’re featuring today. So, if you just HAVE to infuse that flavor into your products, we’ve got you covered. Read on for ten cannabis cultivars practically dripping in citrus aromas and flavors.

Terplytics | The Next Generation of Cannabis Analytics

As you read through this zesty list of cannabis cultivars, you’ll notice we’ve included information you might not be familiar with (yet). Trust us, this is the kind of information you’ve always hoped you could find when shopping for cannabis products.

Our proprietary Terplytics system is the next generation of cannabis analytics. It allows us to deliver the most advanced botanical testing for exploratory research, sensory quantification, strain validation, product development, and consumer insights. It’s also how we developed the Loud, Gas, Haze, and Exotic Factor.

The Loud Factor quantifies the pungency or “loudness” of a strain. Unlike Total Aromatics by Weight, the Loud Factor assigns scores to individual compounds based on their pungency. This is important for aromatic compounds that are incredibly pungent, even at parts per billion.

You probably already guessed that the Gas Factor measures the intensity of a profile’s gassy aroma. Gassy aromas often contain high amounts of beta-Myrcene, d-Limonene, and beta-Caryophyllene, as well as cannabis flavorants that significantly influence aroma even when found in minuscule quantities (we’re talking parts per billion or even parts per trillion). 

Flavorants like Skatole, for instance, amplify the chemical and savory undertones of cannabis while intensifying gassy aromatics from prenylated cannasulfur compounds (PCSCs). PCSCs are responsible for the gassy and skunky aromas of some cannabis cultivars, so the synergy of various aromatic compounds plays a significant role in overall gas.

The Exotic Factor measures the intensity of exotic flavors and aromas — sweet, fruity, or creamy notes. These profiles span the vast sativa-indica divide, with many being indica-dominant hybrids. The compounds that contribute to these scents are typically esters, alcohols, or aldehydes. 

The Haze Factor indicates typical energizing sativa-like effects with piney, woody, and citrus flavors. Additionally, the terpene content in these profiles tends to be higher than average, and you’ll often see haze profiles dominant in the terpene isolate terpinolene.

It’s worth noting that our factor scores are logarithmic. That means the difference between a profile with a Haze Factor of 96% and one with 100% is HUGE, whereas the difference between a Haze Factor of 70% and 90% isn’t as big. 

Also, remember that our Terplytics numbers have nothing to do with quality. A cultivar that has a 100% Haze Factor, for example, isn’t objectively better than a cultivar with a 0% Haze Factor. It just means that one is very hazy, and one isn’t hazy at all.

Now that we’ve explained Terplytics, let’s get to those beautiful citrusy cannabis cultivars.

Orange Apricot

With a name like this, it’s GOT to be citrusy! Right? Oh, you have no idea. Orange Apricot is an exhilarating medley of Tangie-forward citrus with deafeningly loud notes of sweet gas. Surprisingly, it’s not all thanks to d-Limonene.

While terpene isolate d-Limonene gets a lot of credit for citrus-forward aromas and flavors, our research into the Science of Exotic Cannabis revealed that flavorants like tropicannasulfurs (TCSCs) play a much more significant role. 

When combined with other compounds in cannabis, such as PCSCs and terpenes, TCSCs impart an aroma that’s citrus-forward with underlying notes of funk, petroleum, and/or sulfur. Plus, like other members of the cannasulfur family, even the smallest amount of these compounds will have a BIG impact. Think loud aromas that can’t be ignored.

Sour Tangie

The name alone can cause a mouthwatering, lip-puckering sensation. Sour Tangie is a phenomenal example of what happens when nature perfectly balances citrus-forward flavors with gassy, peppery notes. Think tangerines, a hint of sour, and a drop of diesel. 

We love this strain so much that our experts also carefully crafted a Sour Tangie from a particularly juicy sauce! This volatile delicacy is an explosion of citrus flavor that perfectly captures the essence of Sour Tangie with dominant terpenes Linalool, beta-Myrcene, and beta-Caryophyllene. 

Super Lemon Haze

You didn’t think we’d talk about citrus strains without mentioning Super Lemon Haze, did you? Of course not! This two-time cannabis cup winner lives up to its namesake in both smell and taste—zesty, citrusy, and perfectly sweet. Imagine a lemon head candy with a smidge less pucker. 

Dominant terpenes beta-Caryophyllene, Terpinolene, and alpha-Phellandrene infuse this strain with a phenomenal flavor that will have you floating in hazy citrus heaven. 

SFV OG

Also known as San Fernando Valley OG, this strain has everything you love about OG strains with a little something extra. It has a unique aromatic bouquet that manages to be tart, piney, mildly earthy, with a pungent citric finish. It puts you in a great mood, stress will melt away, and you might even notice fewer aches and pains.

Dominant terpenes D-Limonene, Myrcene, Beta-Caryophyllene, and Linalool make SFV OG less earthy than other OG strains and slightly less sour than Jet Fuel. 

Durban Poison 

Sure, the name sounds ominous, but this cultivar will put a serious pep in your step. Durban Poison is one of the most potent sativa strains available, and it’s also considered one of the best-tasting, perfectly balanced buds. Plus, let’s not forget that strains like GSC and Cherry Pie were created by crossing Durban Poison with other heavy-hitting strains.

Dominant terpenes Terpinolene, beta-Myrcene, and d-Limonene help craft its elements of sweet wood, citrus, and spice.

Super Sour Diesel 

Honestly, the word “diesel” should have been your first clue, but its fuel-forward notes of pine, earth, and citrus are undeniably deafening. Dominant terpenes include d-Limonene, beta-Myrcene, and beta-Pinene.

Descended from Super Silver Haze and Sour Diesel, this strain is saucy, pungent, and you’ll smell it a mile away. 

White Runtz 

White Runtz is the creamiest of the Runtz phenotypes, and that’s saying something, considering that Runtz OG is known for its smooth, creamy exhale. Our Native Series White RNTZ terpene profile recreates this cultivar’s sophistication with dominant terpenes d-Limonene, beta-Myrcene, and alpha-Pinene.

It’s less sweet than Runtz OG, but additional notes of citrus, cream, and earth give this phenotype a surprisingly exotic twist.

Lemon Cherry Gelato 

This cultivar is generally considered top-shelf and heir to a dank dessert-fueled lineage. The Lemon Cherry Gelato aroma is drool-worthy and decadent, with swirling notes of bright citrus, sweet berries, and a dank finish that’s just the right amount of gassy. This is thanks, in part, to dominant terpenes d-Limonene, beta-Myrcene, and Cadinene.

Plus, if you’re into relaxing effects with a delightful hit of euphoria, this cultivar is right up your alley.

Sojay Haze 

This cultivar inherited fruity aromas and cerebral stimulation from parents BC Big Bud and Grape FX. Dominant terpenes Terpinolene, beta-Myrcene, and beta-Phellandrene help create the Sojay Haze aroma with its vibrant terpenic quality rounded out with fruity notes of citrus and pine. 

Prepare for focused stimulation that inspires the mind and energizes the body. While this may sound high-energy and a tad bit overwhelming, Sojay Haze imparts all of this with a gentle euphoria that’ll keep a goofy smile on your face while you’re tackling those to-do lists.

Orange Soda

This award-winning strain has a rather mysterious lineage, but its flavor and effects are reminiscent of its namesake. We’re talking crisp orange soda straight from the fountain, poured over crushed ice, with bubbles that tickle your nose with every sip. It has all that plus a note here and there of pine and earth. This is thanks, in part, to dominant terpenes beta-Myrcene, beta-Caryophyllene, and d-Limonene.

Top it off with uplifting and surprisingly long-lasting effects, and Orange Soda will quickly be your go-to summer strain.

Abstrax Tech | Let’s Celebrate Citrus Terpenes!

When it comes to citrus-flavored cannabis strains, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Didn’t see your favorite? Don’t worry, we’re always analyzing new cultivars to bring you the dankest, most authentic cannabis flavors and aromas possible.

Have a great idea? Contact us today, and let’s discuss how to infuse your products with these citrus-forward terpenes. 

Oswald, I., Paryani, T., Sosa, M., Ojeda, M., Altenbernd, M., Grandy, J., Shafer, N., Ngo, K., Peat, J., Melshenker, B. G., Skelly, I., Koby, K., Page, M., & Martin, T. (2023, October 12). Minor, Nonterpenoid Volatile Compounds Drive the Aroma Differences of Exotic Cannabis. ACS Publications.

Botanical Terpene Profiles with CITRUS AROMAS

SHOP Orange Apricot

Revel in the next evolution of botanical aromatics with bright petroleum-fueled Orange Apricot. Tropicannasulfurs create an exhilarating medley of Tangie-forward citrus with deafeningly loud notes of sweet gas. Welcome to the future.

SHOP Sour Tangie

Sour Tangie is one of our most exotic profiles. It has everything you love about Sour Diesel and Tangie in one sexy citrus-powered blend. Imagine the sweet and sour qualities of citrus softened ever so gently by earthy diesel.

SHOP Super Lemon Haze

Super Lemon Haze has a zesty lemon aroma that’s candy-like without overpowering the senses. The subtlest hint of pine sets off the flavor and makes it a heady solution for daytime errands, hikes, or afternoon lulls.

SHOP SFV OG

Hailing from the San Fernando Valley, a local fan favorite, SFV OG has an innate herbal bouquet that's moderated with pine and citric tones but contains a refreshing updraft of earth.

SHOP Durban Poison

The name may sound ominous, but Durban Poison is the dank wake-n-bake option you’ve been waiting for. The sweet pine and citrus provides a jolt of cerebral stimulation that heightens the senses and sharpens focus.

SHOP Super Sour Diesel

As a cross between Super Silver Haze and Sour Diesel, it should come as no surprise that Super Sour Diesel is fuel-forward with pungent notes of pine, earth, and citrus. Prepare for a sauce that’s unforgettably potent.

SHOP White RNTZ

It’s less sweet than RNTZ OG but a smidge more citrus than Pink RNTZ. It has a creaminess that’s elevated by notes of citrus, and an earthy quality that adds an unexpected level of sophistication.

SHOP Lemon Cherry Gelato

As the drool-worthy descendant of beloved cultivars Sunset Sherbet and Girl Scout Cookies, Lemon Cherry Gelato is deliciously decadent. Citrus and sweet berries swirl together for an aroma that’s fruity, dank, and indulgent.

SHOP Sojay Haze

Analyzed from the highest quality sauce, Abstrax’s Sojay Haze delivers a terpenic cloud of fruity citric pine. You can't go wrong with parents like BC Big Bud and Grape FX. Perfect for those needing energy and focus.

SHOP Orange Soda

A cross between Tangie and Grandma's Sugar cookies, Orange Soda is earthy, citrusy, and sweet. This strain is one of those pairings that go along with an active, but not overactive day. Think grilling, not grueling.