But behind every legendary strain is a breeder or group of breeders who brought it to life. In the case of White Widow, the story begins in the Netherlands during the 1990s.
The original White Widow https://whitewidowseeds.com was created by Green House Seeds, a Dutch seed company founded by Arjan Roskam. However, the actual breeding work is often credited to a man named Shantibaba, who was working with Green House Seeds at the time. Shantibaba, whose real name is Scott Blakey, played a key role in developing the strain by crossing a Brazilian sativa landrace with a South Indian indica.
This hybridization resulted in a plant that was not only potent but also visually striking. The name "White Widow" comes from the thick layer of white trichomes that coat the buds, giving them a frosty, almost snow-covered appearance. The strain quickly gained popularity for its strong, euphoric high and balanced effects that combine mental stimulation with physical relaxation.
After parting ways with Green House Seeds, Shantibaba went on to co-found Mr. Nice Seedbank with Howard Marks, a well-known cannabis activist. At Mr. Nice Seedbank, Shantibaba continued to work with the original genetics of White Widow, releasing it under a different name: Black Widow. This version is considered by many connoisseurs to be closer to the original phenotype.
Today, many seed banks offer their own versions of White Widow, but not all are created equal. Some are based on the original genetics, while others are variations or hybrids that carry the White Widow name for marketing purposes. If you're looking for a version that stays true to the original, it's worth seeking out seeds from either Green House Seeds or Mr. Nice Seedbank.
White Widow remains a staple in the cannabis world, not just for its effects but also for its historical significance. Whether you're a grower, a user, or simply a fan of cannabis culture, understanding the origins of this strain adds a deeper appreciation for its place in the industry. The breeders behind White Widow helped set the standard for what a high-quality hybrid could be, and their work continues to influence modern cannabis breeding to this day.
