Mex40 by MadJag – A Journey Through Time and Genetics

Origin and History of Mex40

Mex40 is a rare cannabis strain that dates directly from the early 1980s. Between 1983 and 1985, the original seeds of this Mexican landrace were collected and carefully preserved.
A long-time friend of MadJag kept the seeds safely stored in a vault for decades. Only after the legalization of cannabis in Arizona did she decide in 2022 to sow five of the old seeds. Remarkably, all five seeds germinated – an impressive feat for seeds over 40 years old.

In 2024, MadJag succeeded in growing six more plants from the remaining seeds. This genetics offers a unique opportunity to preserve authentic Mexican sativa profiles and use them as a foundation for new and interesting cannabis breeding projects.

Characteristics of Mex40

Mex40 is a pure sativa landrace (100% Mexican genetics) distinguished by a unique chemical profile. The moderate THC content of 8.4% underscores the originality of this genetic line and is typical for unaltered landraces from this era.

Lab Analysis – Cannabinoid Profile

An analysis by Level One Labs (Scottsdale, Arizona) from November 2025 revealed the following values:

• Total THC: 8.40%
• THCa: 9.12% (91.2 mg/g)
• Δ9-THC: 0.41% (4.1 mg/g)
• CBCa: 0.35% (3.5 mg/g)
• Total Cannabinoids: 9.87%
• Total CBD: not detected

Lab Analysis – Terpene Profile

Total Terpene Content: 12.79 mg/g

• β-Myrcene: 5.74 mg/g (0.574%)
• Farnesene: 3.85 mg/g (0.385%)
• β-Caryophyllene: 2.44 mg/g (0.244%)
• Citronellol: 0.93 mg/g
• δ-Limonene: 0.42 mg/g (0.042%)
• Camphor: 0.37 mg/g
• α-Humulene: 0.34 mg/g (0.034%)
• 3-Carene: 0.19 mg/g
• cis-Nerolidol: 0.19 mg/g
• Linalool: 0.17 mg/g

Notable Feature: Exceptionally High Farnesene Content

At 3.85 mg/g, farnesene is the second most dominant terpene in Mex40, accounting for approximately 30% of the total terpene profile. This is remarkable, as farnesene is typically found only in trace amounts in most cannabis strains. To date, no commercial strain has been documented where farnesene plays such a prominent role.

Farnesene is a sesquiterpene also found in green apples, chamomile, ginger, and turmeric, and is responsible for sweet-fruity, woody aromatic notes.

Aroma and Flavor of Mex40

Primary Aromas According to Lab Analysis: Hops, Magnolia, Cinnamon, Lemon

The aroma profile of Mex40 is multi-layered and unusual. The combination of dominant myrcene (hoppy, earthy) and the high farnesene content (fruity, apple-like) creates a complex scent profile. This is complemented by spicy notes from β-caryophyllene and floral accents from citronellol.

Unlike many modern strains, Mex40 does not offer overly sweet or fruity terpenes, but rather an authentic, mild, and harmonious taste experience.

Cultivation and Flowering Time

• Mex40 exhibits classic tropical sativa growth characteristics.
• The plants grow tall and develop long internodes as well as foxtail-shaped, resinous buds.

Cultivation and flowering characteristics at a glance:

• Genetics: 100% pure Mexican sativa landrace
• Plant Height: Tall-growing with narrow leaves
• Flowering Time Indoor: 12 to 14 weeks
• Flowering Time Outdoor: Maturity from late October to November
• Yield: Medium to high, depending on growing conditions
• Growing Difficulty: High, suitable for experienced growers
• Climate: Optimal for warm, dry regions or indoor grows

Test Results:

For indoor cultivation, the use of training methods such as LST (Low Stress Training) or SCROG (Screen of Green) is recommended to control height growth. Outdoors, Mex40 thrives best in sunny climates with a long growing season.

The Challenge of Old Seeds and Pollination of New Generations

The successful cultivation of these old seeds was an extraordinary achievement. Despite their age, many seeds still showed viability after direct sowing in soil. The resulting plants exhibited an authentic appearance of old Mexican varieties, including red stems and a thin but resinous flower structure.

In September and October 2024, targeted pollination of clones and mother plants was carried out. The goal is to produce new, vigorous seeds that can preserve and further develop genetic diversity. By early 2025, the first new seeds had already germinated, leading the project into an exciting future.

Significance of Mex40 for the Craft Cannabis Scene

Mex40 by MadJag represents a return to authentic genetics, far removed from over-bred, high-potency hybrids.
This rare Mexican landrace offers a unique platform for new flavor experiences and creative hybridizations. It preserves the history of cannabis while simultaneously inspiring the next generation of breeders and cannabis enthusiasts.

Mex40 is one of those rare opportunities to experience original, unadulterated cannabis – a treasure that extends far beyond its THC content.