Death Star is an indica-dominant cannabis strain usually described as a cross of Sensi Star and Sour Diesel, known for a pungent fuel-and-skunk aroma and a heavy, relaxing high. It is credited to a breeder collective in Ohio in the early 2000s, though accounts vary. THC commonly lands around 16% to 22%.
Death Star Strain at a Glance
| Type | Indica-dominant hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Deathstar |
| Lineage | Sensi Star × Sour Diesel |
| Breeder / origin | Credited to a breeder group often called Team Death Star in Ohio; other seed companies sell versions |
| THC | 16–22% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Under 1% |
| Dominant terpenes | Myrcene, Beta-caryophyllene, Limonene |
| Aroma and flavor | diesel, skunk, sour fuel, fuel, earth, sour citrus |
| Reported effects | relaxed, euphoric, sleepy, happy |
| Best for | evening use, unwinding, stress relief |
| Flowering time | 8–9 weeks |
Where Death Star Comes From
Death Star is generally described as a cross of Sensi Star, an award-winning indica-leaning line from Paradise Seeds, and Sour Diesel. A group of breeders in Ohio, later based in Nevada and sometimes called Team Death Star, is the most common credit, with a date in the early 2000s. One variant listed by Savage Land Exotics uses a different Sour Diesel cut, so the exact Diesel parent can vary by breeder.
The Sour Diesel side gives the fuel aroma and uplift, and Sensi Star brings density and body weight. The balance made it a favorite for those who wanted potency with a strong smell. Death Star has been used in newer crosses, and several versions still circulate under the name.
Death Star Effects: What It Feels Like
Death Star typically starts with a quick lift in mood, followed by a thick wave of body relaxation. The Sour Diesel uplift fades first, while the Sensi Star weight settles in.
Most people treat it as an evening strain. Moderate doses are calm and cozy, and larger doses lead to heavy sleepiness. The Diesel parent can add some racy energy at the start, so newer users should start small.
Death Star Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
The aroma is pungent: diesel fuel, skunk and a sour edge, with an earthy base. Taste follows, with fuel and citrus on the inhale and a sour, earthy exhale that lingers.
Myrcene commonly leads, with caryophyllene and limonene adding the pepper and sour citrus. Total terpene content varies, so aroma strength differs by batch.
- Myrcene: earthy, musky and herbal, also found in mango and hops
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
- Limonene: bright citrus, also found in lemon and orange peel
Terpene levels vary from grower to grower and batch to batch, so check the lab label on the package. Learn more in our guide to cannabis terpenes.
Side Effects and How to Use Death Star
Dry mouth and dry eyes are the most reported effects. Strong doses can cause dizziness, heavy drowsiness or a brief bout of anxiety. Hydrate, and avoid driving afterwards.
How strong Death Star feels depends on the batch, your tolerance and how you consume it. Start low, go slow, and read our guide to dosing cannabis.
Do People Use Death Star for Medical Reasons?
Users commonly say they reach for Death Star for stress, sleeplessness, body tension and low appetite. These are user reports rather than medical claims.
These are user reports, not clinical findings. For what research actually supports, see our cannabis health and research section, and talk to your doctor before using cannabis for a health condition.
Growing Death Star
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Flowering: 8–9 weeks
- Yield: Moderate to high
- Height: Medium
- Environment: Indoor or greenhouse
Death Star usually grows as a medium plant with dense flowers that smell strongly during late flower, so odor control matters indoors. Dense buds can invite mold, which is a risk in wet Pacific Northwest autumns outdoors; a greenhouse helps. Flowering takes about eight to nine weeks.
Home-grow rules depend on the state: adults can grow at home in states such as California (six plants per residence), Michigan (12 per residence) and Oregon (four per household), while Washington and Illinois allow home growing only for registered medical patients. Check your state in our cannabis laws by state guide before you plant anything.
Strains Like Death Star
- Sour Diesel: a parent line with a strong fuel aroma and uplift
- Platinum Sour Diesel: a relative with the same sour fuel character
- Skunky Diesel: another gassy, skunky hybrid
- Critical Mass: a heavier, heavy-yielding indica-leaning hybrid
- Skunk #1: a classic skunk-forward strain
Browse more hybrid strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Hybrid Strains to Explore
Dirty Little Secret · Disco · Dojo Kush · Dead Bread · Dark Matter · Daily Driver · All hybrid strains
Where to Buy Death Star
Dispensary menus change every week, and Death Star may be sold under its own name, as a cross or as a pre-roll or vape. The fastest way to find it is to check store menus online before you go. In Portland, browse Portland dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Cannabis Cured Portland and Evergreen Cannabis Company. In Seattle, browse Seattle dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Shawn Kemp’s Cannabis Belltown and The Bakeree Belltown. You can also browse licensed dispensaries in every state we cover. Adults 21 and older can buy with a valid photo ID; see cannabis laws by state for purchase limits.
Death Star FAQ
Is Death Star indica or sativa?
Death Star is an indica-dominant hybrid with a relaxing body effect.
What is Death Star a cross of?
Sensi Star and Sour Diesel.
How strong is Death Star?
Typical THC is around 16% to 22%, though some batches test higher.
What does Death Star taste like?
Diesel fuel and skunk with a sour, earthy finish.
Who bred Death Star?
A breeder group in Ohio, often called Team Death Star, is the most common credit.
Is Death Star good for sleep?
Many users find it relaxing and sleepy, especially at larger doses.
For adults 21+ in legal states. Strain information reflects breeder descriptions, lab data and user reports; effects vary by person and batch. Not medical advice.
