The 4 Most Expensive Cannabis Strains On The Market - And 4 Cheaper Ones That Are Just As Good

This article was originally published on Cannabis.net and appears here with permission.

Different cannabis strains have different qualities. Patients and consumers frequently compile a list of their favorite strains that best suit their health requirements because the psychotropic and physical effects of various strains can be strikingly diverse.

Some strains are the result of casual growers experimenting with genetics in their spare time. While this citizen science approach can sometimes yield groundbreaking results, it can also lead to disappointing outcomes.

In contrast, other strains come from extensive breeding programs that involve expensive equipment, experienced breeders, and top-tier genetic material. These strains often command higher prices on the market.

But are these premium seeds worth the investment? It depends. Some offer genuinely unique and beneficial qualities, while others may be over-hyped and not live up to the marketing claims.  Some expensive marijuana joints have had a list price of over $24,000!

Here are some of the most expensive stains with their cheaper alternatives;

1. ORACLE

In 2009, a mysterious strain named Oracle captivated the cannabis community, sparking rumors of a breakthrough in cannabis potency. Oracle's name buzzed through online forums and real-world events, generating significant excitement.

What fueled this hype? Oracle was rumored to possess two extraordinary traits. First, it was said to produce resinous flowers with a staggering THC content of 45%. Second, Oracle supposedly bloomed in record time, reducing the wait for harvest. These claims drove up the price of Oracle's genetics, with seeds selling for $200 each and clones fetching $1,000.

Sounds revolutionary, right? Unfortunately, the hype was unfounded, likely a combination of false marketing and overenthusiastic cannabis fans. In 2013, The Werc Shop, a cannabis testing facility, analyzed Oracle samples. They found that not only did Oracle lack 45% THC, but it contained almost no THC at all.

Instead, Oracle flowers were rich in CBD, the non-psychoactive cannabinoid, producing no high and far from the intense effects it was famed for.

Affordable Alternative: CBD Fix Automatic

Paying a premium for a high-CBD cultivar like Oracle doesn't make sense, especially with other high-quality strains available. Consider CBD Fix Automatic, for example.

This excellent strain offers CBD levels up to 15% with a THC level of just 0.8%. Descending from Northern Light Auto and a CBD-rich clone, it remains small and easily manageable. Its dense flowers provide a light, subtle effect that keeps you productive and focused all day long.

2. ISLA OG

Isla OG catapulted to fame after a legendary internet appearance. In a web series, rapper 2 Chainz smoked this strain using a 24-karat gold rolling paper. Whether a savvy marketing stunt or a display of his lavish lifestyle, this moment instantly associated Isla OG with extravagance and premium status.

Despite the exposure, Isla OG remains somewhat mysterious. Cannabis experts speculate that it has sativa genetics, possibly a cross between OG Kush and Hawaiian.

Affordable Alternative: OG KUSH

As one of Isla OG's potential parents, OG Kush shares many of its desirable traits. This legendary strain offers a similar flavor profile to Isla OG, with high THC levels and a mix of sweet and sour tastes. Enjoy part of Isla OG's legacy at a much lower cost.

3. XJ-13

With 50% Indica and 50% Sativa in equal proportion, XJ-13 is a hybrid strain that is well-known for its intensity and abundant secondary cannabinoid and terpene profile. Due to its distinct makeup, this strain—which retails for about $350 per ounce and has a total THC level of about 30%—has earned a place on the luxury strain list.

Strain Profile

-THC: 28%

-THCA: 16%

-CBGa: 14.13 mg/g

-CBCa: 4.16 mg/g

-CBG: 0.57%

-CBD: 0.05%

-Dominant Terpenes: B-Pinene, Humulene, A-Pinene, 3-Carene, Terpinolene, Linalool, Y-Terpinene, P-Cymene

XJ-13 may provide relief from headaches, weariness, muscular spasms, anxiety, and problems with focus and sleep. Given that XJ-13 contains terpenes, which are known to elevate mood, this strain may be helpful to those who are depressed.

Less Expensive Alternatives

- Jack Herer

- G-13

Flavor Profile

When smoked, XJ-13 has a flavor profile that combines citrus, earthy, sweet, and nasty skunk undertones. It's not hard to get in the US, but the average price per ounce is about $350.

4. White Fire OG

White Fire OG, also known as WiFi OG or WiFi Kush, is a hybrid strain with a 60% Indica and 40% Sativa composition. Bred from Fire OG and The White, this strain has become highly popular.

Strain Profile

- THC: 22% to 30%

- CBD: 1%

- Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene, Limonene

Patients using White Fire OG report feeling emotionally uplifted, focused, energetic, and relaxed, making it ideal for daytime use.

Less Expensive Alternatives

- Jesus OG

- Tangerine Dream

- Jacky White

- The White

- White Wedding

Flavor Profile

White Fire OG offers a unique flavor profile, featuring sour citrus, spicy earth, and mellow herb notes. Some users note a peppery taste that can induce coughing. This strain can sometimes be found for less than $200 per ounce, though it typically sells for $400 to $600 per ounce.

Do Pricey Weed Strains Make Sense?

Finding therapeutic cannabis strains might seem endless for people with physically or mentally crippling diseases. Given their high price tags, it's reasonable to question whether the most costly strains in the world may provide greater benefits.

However, you don't need to use a high-THC strain to achieve good results. Affordable alternatives are often available at your local dispensary. By doing some research and creating a list of high-quality, budget-friendly strains, you can find effective options. Additionally, consult with your local dispensary for recommendations tailored to your symptoms and wellness goals.

Bottom Line

Although some of the priciest cannabis strains command premium pricing due to their distinctive features, they aren't necessarily the greatest or the only method to get the desired benefits. Numerous reasonably priced substitutes can provide comparable advantages without the high cost. Through research and discussions with trained personnel at the dispensary, customers may choose affordable, premium strains that fulfill their demands for wellness and health. Regardless of price, the optimal strain is the one that successfully treats a patient's unique symptoms and preferences.

This article is from an external unpaid contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.