White-Shark
aka Great White Shark, Peacemaker, GWS +1 more
White Shark is an award-winning sativa-dominant hybrid (85/15) that captured the 1997 Cannabis Cup with its perfect balance of uplifting cerebral effects and gentle body relaxation. Created by crossing Super Skunk with Brazilian genetics, this legendary strain features dominant limonene terpenes delivering citrus-diesel aromatics and mood-elevating properties. With THC ranging 12-26%, it offers versatile effects—euphoric creativity and mental clarity transitioning into soothing relaxation. Ideal for evening stress relief, creative pursuits, and social activities, White Shark excels at managing chronic pain, anxiety, and muscle tension while maintaining functional clarity.
The Short Answer
What kind of high is White-Shark?
Myrcene-led and sweet-citrus on the palate, most often reported relaxed and picked for relaxing at night.
Terpenes decide how a strain feels — THC% only decides how strong the dose is. Here is the family, the chemistry behind it, and what people reach for it to do.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that shape the character of a high. The blend a strain carries — not its THC percentage — is what makes one feel bright and social and another heavy and sleepy, which is why the top three are listed rather than just the leader.
Terpene percentages belong to the jar, not the strain. They move with harvest timing, drying, cure and shelf age — the lighter ones literally evaporate. What holds steady is which terpenes lead, so that is what we rank.
See the full profile →Learn how terpenes work →- Sedating
- Muscle relaxant
- Anti inflammatory
- Limonene Citrus, lemon, orange
- Caryophyllene Spicy, peppery, woody
Ordered by measured share — the exact percentages shift with every batch and cure.
The effects reported most often across our research sources. Every body is different — set, setting and tolerance all move the result.
- Euphoric
- Happy
The activities this strain gets picked for most often, leading with the specific ones rather than the broad buckets nearly every strain shares. A starting point, not a prescription — what works for you is personal.
See the full list →The flavor notes reported most often across our research sources, led by the most specific one — flavor tracks the terpene blend, but cure, age and how you consume it all shift what actually lands on the palate.
See the full profile →- Earthy
- Skunky
The aroma notes reported most often across our research sources — what the jar gives up before you light it. This is the strain's own recorded profile, not the textbook aroma of its lead terpene.
See the full profile →- Earthy
- Best Time night
- Era 1997
- Rarity Common
Genetics Sativa-Dominant Hybrid A lineage label, not an effects predictor — most modern flower is a hybrid, and the terpene mix above is what you will actually notice.
Potency Check the label, not the strain Varies by batch, grower and harvest — check the label on the product you are buying. Scan your label → Reported ranges →
Heads up Most reported: dry mouth and dry eyes. Responses vary — start low, go slow. Review safety →
Your guided read
6 chapters on White-Shark
Start at the top and work down — each chapter builds on the one before it. Jump to any chapter to read it on its own.
- The Experience How this strain is reported to feel, and when people reach for it.
- Look, Aroma & Taste The smell and flavour you will actually notice — and the terpenes behind them.
- Chemistry & Research Therapeutic reports, published research, and what the lab numbers do — and do not — tell you.
- Using It Well Consumption methods that suit this strain, and the side effects to plan around.
- Where It Comes From The genetics, the breeders, and the recognition it has picked up along the way.
- The Full Story The long-form profile and community video reviews, once you want the detail.
Strain Highlights
Key insights at a glance
The Experience
Professor High Says...
In-depth strain breakdown from Professor High, our AI cannabis expert
As the effects wash over me, I'm experiencing exactly what made this strain capture that '97 Cannabis Cup—it's like my neurons are doing a happy dance while my muscles melt into the couch. The limonene really shines here, creating this beautiful cerebral uplift that feels like sunshine breaking through clouds, elevating my mood and sharpening my creative thoughts simultaneously. What fascinates me about White Shark's high is the distinct two-phase experience: first comes this energizing mental clarity that makes conversations flow effortlessly and ideas connect in novel ways, then gradually, the myrcene and caryophyllene introduce this gentle body warmth that releases tension without stealing your motivation. It's like having coffee and a massage simultaneously—that rare hybrid sweet spot where you're alert enough to create yet relaxed enough to enjoy. The Super Skunk genetics provide this grounding earthiness that prevents any racing thoughts, while the Brazilian sativa keeps everything bright and positive. I'm finding it perfect for evening creativity sessions where you want inspiration without couch-lock, or social situations where you need to be present and engaged but also genuinely relaxed. The effects feel intelligent—sophisticated and balanced rather than one-dimensional.
Effects Profile
Relaxed · Euphoric · Happy
Best enjoyed during night
Deep relaxation and sleep
Best For
Relaxing · Creative Projects · Stress Relief
Effect Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 White Shark Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews allbud.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark - Strain Information - CannaConnection cannaconnection.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Great White Shark Strain Review: Cannabis Effects & Flavor seedsherenow.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Strain Review: Great White Shark dgomag.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Great White Shark Seeds pacificseedbank.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 Cape White Shark Strain: A Comprehensive Strain Guide app.jointcommerce.com(opens in new tab)
- 8 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 9 WeedHub | Great White Shark Cannabis - Strain weedhub.ca(opens in new tab)
- 10 Great White Shark lighthousegenetics.com(opens in new tab)
- 11 Color Cannabis White Shark Review merryjade.com(opens in new tab)
- 12 Great White Shark Weed Strain Information leafbuyer.com(opens in new tab)
- 13 White Shark kindgreenbuds.com(opens in new tab)
- 14 White Shark — Aqualitas - Veterans for Healing veterans.aqualitas.ca(opens in new tab)
14 verified sources
Look, Aroma & Taste
Aroma & Flavor
Fruity · Diesel · Earthy
Aroma & Flavor Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 White Shark Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews allbud.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark - Strain Information - CannaConnection cannaconnection.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Great White Shark Strain Review: Cannabis Effects & Flavor seedsherenow.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Strain Review: Great White Shark dgomag.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Great White Shark Seeds pacificseedbank.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 Cape White Shark Strain: A Comprehensive Strain Guide app.jointcommerce.com(opens in new tab)
- 8 Color Cannabis - White Shark — Purple Tree Cannabis purpletreecannabis.com(opens in new tab)
- 9 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 10 WeedHub | Great White Shark Cannabis - Strain weedhub.ca(opens in new tab)
- 11 Great White Shark lighthousegenetics.com(opens in new tab)
- 12 Color Cannabis White Shark Review merryjade.com(opens in new tab)
- 13 Great White Shark Weed Strain Information leafbuyer.com(opens in new tab)
- 14 White Shark kindgreenbuds.com(opens in new tab)
- 15 White Shark — Aqualitas - Veterans for Healing veterans.aqualitas.ca(opens in new tab)
15 verified sources
Aromas
Flavors
Terpene Profile
Myrcene leads · 4 terpenes mapped
Terpene Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 Strain Review: Great White Shark dgomag.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark Seeds pacificseedbank.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Cape White Shark Strain: A Comprehensive Strain Guide app.jointcommerce.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Color Cannabis - White Shark — Purple Tree Cannabis purpletreecannabis.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 WeedHub | Great White Shark Cannabis - Strain weedhub.ca(opens in new tab)
- 8 Great White Shark lighthousegenetics.com(opens in new tab)
- 9 White Shark kindgreenbuds.com(opens in new tab)
9 verified sources
Terpene Distribution
Terpene profile: Myrcene 1.0%, Limonene 0.8%, Caryophyllene 0.7%, Terpinolene 0.3% .
Myrcene Dominant
Flavor: Earthy, musky, fruity
Limonene
Flavor: Citrus, lemon, orange
Caryophyllene
Flavor: Spicy, peppery, woody
Terpinolene
Flavor: Fresh, piney, floral, citrus
Full Profile
Myrcene
0.96%
Flavor Profile:
Earthy, musky, fruity
Effects:
Limonene
0.76%
Flavor Profile:
Citrus, lemon, orange
Effects:
Caryophyllene
0.66%
Flavor Profile:
Spicy, peppery, woody
Effects:
Terpinolene
0.3%
Flavor Profile:
Fresh, piney, floral, citrus
Effects:
Appearance
Deep forest green · Lime green undertones
Color Palette
Texture
Dense, chunky buds with medium to large size displaying substantial resin production and sticky, aromatic texture. The structure is compact yet well-formed with excellent trichome coverage.
Crystal Density
high
Heavy frost coating
Chemistry & Research
Medical Effects
10 reported therapeutic uses on file
Medical Effect Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 White Shark Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews allbud.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark Strain Review: Cannabis Effects & Flavor seedsherenow.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Great White Shark Seeds pacificseedbank.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Cape White Shark Strain: A Comprehensive Strain Guide app.jointcommerce.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 WeedHub | Great White Shark Cannabis - Strain weedhub.ca(opens in new tab)
- 8 Color Cannabis White Shark Review merryjade.com(opens in new tab)
- 9 Great White Shark Weed Strain Information leafbuyer.com(opens in new tab)
- 10 White Shark — Aqualitas - Veterans for Healing veterans.aqualitas.ca(opens in new tab)
10 verified sources
Mental Effects
- •Stress Relief
Reduces stress and promotes relaxation without heavy sedation
- •Anxiety Management
Alleviates anxiety symptoms with calming cerebral effects
- •Depression Support
Elevates mood and provides emotional balance
- •ADHD Symptom Management
Enhances focus and mental clarity for attention disorders
Professor High visualization
Body Effects
- •Pain Management
Reduces chronic pain and muscle tension effectively
- •Inflammation Reduction
Decreases inflammation and arthritis-related discomfort
- •Muscle Spasm Relief
Alleviates muscle spasms and cramping sensations
- •Sleep Support
Promotes restful sleep and insomnia relief
- •Appetite Stimulation
Increases appetite and addresses appetite loss issues
- •Nausea Relief
Reduces nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort
Medical Disclaimer: This information is AI-generated based on available research and user reports, provided for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Cannabis affects everyone differently. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis for medical purposes. Do not use cannabis if pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition without consulting your doctor.
What Research Says
Peer-reviewed studies, terpene science & safety guidance
What does the research say about White-Shark?
White-Shark is a hybrid cannabis strain containing up to 26.1% THC, with a terpene profile dominated by Myrcene and Limonene. This page currently has good data confidence. Below are profile sources when available plus authoritative resources for understanding the compounds in this strain.
Terpene Research
Cannabinoid Information
Cannabis Regulations & Safety
Educational resources only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for health decisions.
Cannabinoids (THC & CBD)
THC 12-26.14% · Type I chemovar
THC% tells you how strong. Terpenes tell you how it feels.
THC percentage is a property of the product in your hand, not of the strain. It shifts with the batch, the grower, the harvest, and how the flower was cured and stored — the same strain can test several points apart from two different jars.
Treat the ranges below as market context for what to expect on a shelf — then read the actual label on the product you are buying, and use the terpene profile to judge how it will feel.
High THC (>15%), low CBD (<1%) - Most common recreational strains
Using It Well
Consumption Methods
Smoking · Vaping · Edibles
Recommended Methods
Side Effects
Dry Mouth · Dry Eyes · +2 more
Side effects vary by individual. Start low, go slow. Consult a healthcare professional with concerns.
These are commonly reported effects. Individual experiences may vary based on dosage, tolerance, and consumption method.
Where It Comes From
Lineage & History
Super Skunk × Brazilian · bred by Green House Seed Company
Lineage Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 White Shark Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews allbud.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark - Strain Information - CannaConnection cannaconnection.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Great White Shark Strain Review: Cannabis Effects & Flavor seedsherenow.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Great White Shark Seeds pacificseedbank.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Cape White Shark Strain: A Comprehensive Strain Guide app.jointcommerce.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 8 WeedHub | Great White Shark Cannabis - Strain weedhub.ca(opens in new tab)
- 9 Great White Shark lighthousegenetics.com(opens in new tab)
- 10 Color Cannabis White Shark Review merryjade.com(opens in new tab)
- 11 Great White Shark Weed Strain Information leafbuyer.com(opens in new tab)
- 12 White Shark kindgreenbuds.com(opens in new tab)
- 13 White Shark — Aqualitas - Veterans for Healing veterans.aqualitas.ca(opens in new tab)
13 verified sources
Hybrid strain created by crossing Super Skunk with Brazilian and South American Sativa genetics. Also known as Great White Shark or Peacemaker.
Genetics
Origin Timeline
First cultivated in 1997
Breeder
Green House Seed Company
Seed Bank
Green House Seeds
Awards & Recognition
4 awards & mentions
Award Sources
- 1 Great White Shark - Weed Strains leafly.com(opens in new tab)
- 2 White Shark Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews allbud.com(opens in new tab)
- 3 Great White Shark - Strain Information - CannaConnection cannaconnection.com(opens in new tab)
- 4 Great White Shark Strain Review: Cannabis Effects & Flavor seedsherenow.com(opens in new tab)
- 5 Great White Shark Cannabis Strain Information - GrowDiaries growdiaries.com(opens in new tab)
- 6 Color Cannabis White Shark Review merryjade.com(opens in new tab)
- 7 Great White Shark Weed Strain Information leafbuyer.com(opens in new tab)
- 8 White Shark kindgreenbuds.com(opens in new tab)
8 verified sources
Competition Wins
The Full Story
Detailed Description
The long-form profile · ~4 min read
The Award-Winning Legend: White Shark
White Shark, also known as Great White Shark or Peacemaker, stands as one of cannabis culture's most celebrated hybrids, having captured the prestigious 1997 High Times Cannabis Cup and cementing its legacy in the halls of legendary strains. This sativa-dominant hybrid (85% Sativa / 15% Indica) delivers a sophisticated experience that balances uplifting cerebral effects with gentle body relaxation, making it a versatile choice for both recreational and therapeutic users.
🧬 Genetic Heritage & Lineage
Bred by the legendary Green House Seed Company in the mid-1990s, White Shark emerged from the masterful crossing of Super Skunk with Brazilian sativa genetics. This genetic pairing creates a unique synergy—Super Skunk contributes robust indica structure and pungent aromatics, while the Brazilian landrace brings energizing sativa effects and tropical flavor notes. The strain's 1997 Cannabis Cup victory validated the breeder's vision, establishing White Shark as a cornerstone genetics that would influence countless modern hybrids. The strain's alternative names reflect its impact: "Great White Shark" emphasizes its powerful nature, while "Peacemaker" hints at its calming, stress-relieving properties.
👃 Terpene Profile & Aromatics
Limonene dominates White Shark's terpene profile at approximately 0.76%, delivering the strain's signature citrus brightness and mood-elevating properties. This primary terpene creates the foundation for White Shark's uplifting mental effects and contributes fresh lemon-pine aromatics. Beta-Myrcene follows at 0.36%, adding herbal earthiness and contributing to the strain's relaxing body effects, while Beta-Caryophyllene at 0.26% provides spicy pepper notes and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
The aroma experience begins with sweet citrus and fruity top notes, quickly evolving into skunky diesel undertones with earthy pine accents. Secondary aromatic layers reveal musky herbal notes, tropical fruit hints, and subtle floral touches. This complex bouquet creates an inviting sensory introduction that promises the multifaceted experience to follow.
👅 Flavor Experience
White Shark delivers a flavor journey that mirrors its aromatic complexity. The initial inhale brings sweet citrus and earthy herbal notes, coating the palate with smooth smoke or clean vapor. Mid-palate, you'll detect skunky diesel undertones balanced by fruity sweetness and pine freshness. The exhale leaves a lingering earthy-sweet finish with spicy pepper notes and occasional tobacco-like depth. Some phenotypes express tropical fruit flavors or menthol coolness, adding unique character to individual experiences.
🎯 Effects & Experience
White Shark's effects typically onset within 5-10 minutes when smoked or vaped, beginning with a cerebral uplift that brings euphoria, mental clarity, and creative energy. You'll notice enhanced focus and mood elevation as limonene works its magic, promoting positive thoughts and social engagement. As the experience develops over 15-30 minutes, gentle body relaxation emerges, releasing muscle tension without heavy sedation.
The peak experience lasts 2-3 hours, maintaining that balanced state between mental stimulation and physical ease. Users report feeling happy, uplifted, and relaxed simultaneously—a testament to the strain's hybrid genetics. As effects taper, you may experience mild sleepiness, particularly at higher doses, making evening consumption ideal for many users.
🎮 Use Cases & Activities
White Shark excels during evening unwinding and social activities, where its mood-lifting properties enhance conversations and creative pursuits. The strain supports artistic projects, music appreciation, and brainstorming sessions without overwhelming mental clarity. It's equally effective for stress relief after work, casual gaming, or watching films. The balanced effects make it suitable for experienced users seeking daytime creativity in moderate doses, while higher amounts support nighttime relaxation and eventual sleep.
💚 Medical & Therapeutic Potential
Medical users appreciate White Shark's comprehensive therapeutic profile. The strain may help manage chronic pain (intensity 5/5) through caryophyllene's CB2 receptor activation and myrcene's analgesic properties. For mental wellness, it may provide stress relief (5/5) and anxiety management (4/5) through limonene's mood-enhancing effects. Additional benefits include potential relief from inflammation (4/5), muscle spasms (4/5), sleep difficulties (4/5), and appetite loss (3/5). The moderate THC range of 12-26% allows users to find appropriate dosing for their therapeutic needs.
👁️ Visual Characteristics
White Shark buds display dense, chunky structure with medium to large size. Dominant colors include deep forest green with lime undertones and occasional purple hues in cooler-grown phenotypes. Bright orange pistils create striking contrast, while heavy trichome coverage gives buds a frosty, crystalline appearance. The resin production is substantial, resulting in sticky, aromatic flowers that reflect the strain's potency.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
The 1997 High Times Cannabis Cup victory remains White Shark's crowning achievement, establishing the strain among cannabis elite. Additional recognition includes a 2005 High Life Hemp Fair first place finish, confirming its enduring quality and appeal across judging panels and generations of cannabis enthusiasts.
📜 Cultural Context & Consumer Considerations
White Shark represents late-1990s breeding excellence, a period when Dutch seed companies revolutionized cannabis genetics. The strain remains widely available through dispensaries and seed banks, testament to its lasting popularity. Novice users should start with low doses (5-10mg equivalent) due to the variable THC content, while experienced consumers can explore the strain's full potential at higher amounts. Common side effects include dry mouth and dry eyes—stay hydrated and keep eye drops handy for maximum comfort.
Research Methodology
How we compiled this strain profile
This strain profile was compiled from 18 published sources covering 'White-Shark'. Our research pipeline cross-references these sources and reports how strongly they agree — see the confidence breakdown below.
Data Quality by Section
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Strain Highlights
Key insights at a glance
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