Malawi Gold is harvested exclusively in the Northern region of Malawi, on aplateau at the altitude of around 4000ft. This generally subtropical region sees little to no rain for 6 months of the year with the rainy season from November through to April. These hot and humid conditions means that Malawi Gold has developed superior resistance to mould and can adapt to almost any environment, making her a very hardy and easily cultivated plant. The area of this world-famous Sativa is home to all manner of animals including “Africa’s big five” and also many species of fish, reptile, insect and mammal species that are found nowhere else on Earth. Large crocodiles, insects, monkeys and birds all inhabit the area close to where Malawi Gold is found growing.
The plants grow strong and tall with lots of branching and the smell is distinctly of exotic pineapple/lemon mingled with spicy incense. The buds are king sized, super-resinous, and are a deep gold, almost Amber colour. The plant is considered internationally as one of Africa’s best Sativas and is one of Malawi’s 3 biggest exports. The area in which it grows is inhabited by the Chewa people who specialise in fishing, farming and cattle and the locals traditionally wrap the bud in a banana leaf to cure. This process enhances and sweet pineapple/lemon flavour, and is known as the famous “Malawi cob”. There are 2 large clans that make up the Chewa people: the Phiri and the Banda. The Phiri are linked to kings and an aristocratic heritage and the Banda with healers and mystics who were most likely the main advocates of utilising this sacred plants medical and trance like capabilities. It is consumed locally by smoking in pipes but also papers where available and the leaf is used as infusions for remedies, ceremonial use and as part of everyday life. The Chewa say that the seeds we acquire from this particular lineage are from plants that have grown in the area for as long as they can remember and that they always produce heavy results harbouring an intense psychoactive high.
- Name : Malawi Gold A.K.A Chamba
- Origin : Northern Malawi
- Strain : Sativa Non Feminized
- Outdoor/Indoor
- Flowering time : Up to 16 weeks
Strain FAQ
Why do Sativas yield less outside their native ranges?
When beyond their tropical comfort zone, Sativas are said to yield less. Due to their long flowering time and specific environmental needs, they are reportedly difficult to satisfy away from their equatorial home.
Why do some cannabis strains smell like incense?
Incense-scented strains frequently come from landrace strains from India and the Middle East. Cannabis' various terpenes give it its fragrance.
How important are landrace cannabis strains culturally?
Indigenous peoples have grown and used landrace strains for ages for medical, spiritual, and recreational purposes. Due to its strong roots in local culture and traditions, landrace cannabis strains can be found in the history of a great many places.
What is cannabis' cultural and historical relevance in Africa and the Middle East?
Cannabis has been grown for ages in Africa and the Middle East for cultural and medicinal purposes. Generations of cultivation knowledge and techniques have resulted from this partnership and we're still learning!
Have long flowering time strains adapted to the climate?
Indeed, several long-flowering cultivars have adapted to certain climates. Sativa strains, which take longer to flower, are native to tropical locations and have adapted to extended daylight hours and higher humidity.