ACDC is a sativa-dominant cannabis strain selected from a Cannatonic phenotype, known for very high CBD and almost no intoxicating THC. It is generally traced to Northern California in the early 2010s, from Cannatonic seeds made by Resin Seeds in Spain. Lab tests often show a CBD to THC ratio near 20:1, with CBD around 14% to 20%.
ACDC Strain at a Glance
| Type | Sativa-dominant hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | AC/DC |
| Lineage | Cannatonic phenotype |
| Breeder / origin | Selected from Resin Seeds’ Cannatonic; credited to a Northern California grower or physician network in some accounts |
| THC | 1–6% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | 14–20% |
| Dominant terpenes | Myrcene, Pinene, Beta-caryophyllene |
| Aroma and flavor | earthy, woody, citrus, earth, pine, lemon |
| Reported effects | clear-headed, calm, relaxed, non-intoxicating |
| Best for | daytime use, low-intoxication cannabis, people sensitive to THC |
| Flowering time | 8–10 weeks |
Where ACDC Comes From
ACDC is a selection, not a cross. It was picked out of the Cannatonic line, a Spanish-bred high-CBD cultivar from Resin Seeds. Cannatonic seeds produce a mix of plants, so some lean heavily toward CBD, and ACDC is one of those keepers. One account credits Dr. William Courtney, a Northern California physician, with finding the phenotype after buying Cannatonic seeds in Barcelona, but this comes from seed-bank and dispensary listings and is not independently documented.
The name is often said to stand for Alternative Cannabinoid Dietary Cannabis, not the rock band, again according to the strain’s promoters. ACDC is usually sold as a clone because seed lines do not hold the ratio. It became popular with patients who wanted cannabis with nearly no high and helped drive the early market for CBD-rich flower.
ACDC Effects: What It Feels Like
ACDC is notable for what it does not do. With THC often below 6% and CBD in the mid teens or higher, most people feel little to no intoxication. Typical reports are a calm mind, loosened muscles and a clear head that stays suitable for work or errands.
Some users notice a subtle mood lift or a gentle focus, but others feel almost nothing, particularly at low doses. Because the effect is subtle, it is common to take more than expected, which tends to bring on mild sleepiness rather than anxiety. Ratios shift between growers, so check the lab report.
ACDC Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
ACDC smells earthy and woody, with a citrus edge and a hint of pine. Taste follows: mild and herbal on the inhale, with lemony, earthy notes on the exhale. It is not a dessert-style strain, and its flavor is generally quiet.
Myrcene, pinene and caryophyllene are the terpenes most often reported. They add an earthy, piney and peppery character that fits its medicinal reputation.
- Myrcene: earthy, musky and herbal, also found in mango and hops
- Pinene: fresh pine, also found in pine needles and rosemary
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
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 ACDC
ACDC is well tolerated, and side effects are mild. Dry mouth, dry eyes and some drowsiness are the most commonly reported. High-dose CBD can interact with certain prescription drugs, so people on medication should check with their doctor.
How strong ACDC 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 ACDC for Medical Reasons?
Patients and parents commonly mention ACDC for muscle tension, joint aches, stress and seizure-related interest, partly because of its CBD content. These are user and community reports, not proof of treatment, and a doctor should guide any medical use.
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 ACDC
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Flowering: 8–10 weeks
- Yield: Moderate
- Height: Medium to tall
- Environment: Indoor or greenhouse; outdoors in warm, dry climates
ACDC is mostly grown from clones, because seed lines vary in their CBD to THC ratio. Plants stretch in flower and respond well to topping and a trellis. Expect an October finish outdoors, which means mold risk in wet Pacific Northwest autumns, so a greenhouse or good airflow is worth the effort.
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 ACDC
- Cannatonic: the parent line it was selected from, usually with more THC
- Harlequin: another CBD-rich sativa with a clear, gentle feel
- Charlotte’s Web: a famous high-CBD strain from Colorado
- CBD Charlotte’s Angel: a CBD-forward option with a calming profile
- Harlequin GDP: a CBD hybrid with a more relaxing finish
Browse more sativa strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Sativa Strains to Explore
Afghan Haze · Agent Orange · AK-47 · Acapulco Gold · 503 Wifi · Y Griega · All sativa strains
Where to Buy ACDC
Dispensary menus change every week, and ACDC 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 Spokane, browse Spokane dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Cannabis & Glass North Spokane and Smokane. In Lansing, browse Lansing dispensaries and check the menus at stores like The Cake House – Lansing and Lake Life Farms. 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.
ACDC FAQ
Is ACDC indica or sativa?
ACDC is generally listed as a sativa-dominant hybrid, though its effects are mild and not strongly either way.
How much CBD does ACDC have?
Lab results often show 14% to 20% CBD with THC at 1% to 6%, a ratio close to 20:1.
Will ACDC get you high?
Usually not much. Most people feel calm and clear because THC is so low.
What does ACDC stand for?
Promoters say it means Alternative Cannabinoid Dietary Cannabis. It is not named after the band.
What is ACDC made from?
It is a Cannatonic phenotype selected for high CBD, not a separate cross.
Where does ACDC come from?
Most accounts point to Northern California, based on Cannatonic seeds from Resin Seeds in Barcelona.
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.
