Purple Haze Strain

Medically reviewed by Alexander Tabibi, MD
September 13, 2020
Weed Flower Purple Haze
Weed Flower Purple Haze

You’ve probably heard of this hybrid sativa-dominant strain from the Jimi Hendrix song that it was named after, but this beautiful cultivar, with its sweet berry flavor, is something that is so much more than a piece of pop culture.  If you’re all about the heady, hazy strains from the psychedelic era, then this one is a must.

This purple haze strain gives you a fruity, berry taste that complements the mental stimulation you get from the buzz.  This one packs a punch.

Purple haze all in my brain
Lately things don’t seem the same
Actin’ funny, but I don’t know why
‘Scuse me while I kiss the sky

~Jimmy Hendrix

What is Purple Haze?

Purple Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid that is 85% sativa and 15% indica.  It’s bred by crossing Purple Thai and Haze, two OG legends in their own rights.  The result is a powerful cultivar with 26% THC – an upgrade from its earlier phenotypes that are long gone.

These purple-hued, medium to large nugs are shaped a little like a shovel – wide at the bottom and pointy at the top.  They are loose like a sativa flower, with flowy light leaves that make it look like they’re fluffing out from the stem.  While they have the purple coloring, they have waves of beautiful mint green as well.  The pistils are also purple, and this is all offset by the glistening, crystal-like sticky resin of the trichomes.

What Does Purple Haze Taste and Smell Like?

With Purple Haze, the musky flavor of cannabis is undercut by the tangy and sweet scent of fresh and juicy berries, to act as the source for the name of the strain.  Once you break up or grind the nugs, you’ll note the herbal and spicy scents.  The smoke is smooth and easy, with a sweet taste and undertones of pine and woodiness.

What are Purple Haze’s Effects?

This strain is not for the faint of heart.  It gives a strong, fast, and continuous head and body high.  While typically a happy, euphoric and creative type of vibe, it can come on at a speed and strength that can be disorienting for novice users, or those with existing concerns with paranoia and anxiety.  Novice users should take it slow, and also be prepared for something very powerful, as some side effects can include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Dry eyes
  • Paranoia
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety
  • Headache

That being said, the quick onset and powerful properties makes this a popular choice for those seeking therapeutic value from medical marijuana.  Because of the increased sensory stimulation and energized motor effects you’ll get right away, this is a solid choice for mood disorders or attention deficit or distraction concerns.

The Purple Haze high is ongoing, beginning with a rush of cerebral tingling, and then continuing to become an energizing body buzz.  The potency of the strain serves to initially lift up the mood while engaging the mind in heightened sensory reception, often resulting in deep thinking and enhanced conversations.  As the buzz continues, the body begins to engage.

You’ll find your thinking becomes bit trippy as you jump from topic to topic.  That’s why it’s such a popular social strain, but also amazing for taking on any creative project.

Growing the Purple Haze Cannabis Strain

It’s not easy to find seeds for the purple haze strain, so if you’re interested in growing this strain the best bet is from a clipping or clone. This is a hardy strain and one that’s fairly easy to grow, even for new growers. It can grow fine in a range of temperatures, with the idea being between 65-80. The care will require pruning and support for the colas because they do grow tall, which can be a concern for space limitations if grown indoors. To get the purple color you’ll lower the temperature during growing stages.

  • Easy to grow
  • Grows tall
  • Flowering: 8-9 weeks
  • Yield: High (outdoor has a higher yield)

Purple Haze: Try the Legend for Yourself

Basically, if you’re looking for a trippy and powerful all-around mind body high, then Purple Haze Cannabis Strain is a fantastic choice.  But, be forewarned that it’s as powerful as it is tasty and pretty.  Familiarize yourself with the effects by taking it slow if you’re new to its high THC levels.  And, remember that this strain is more of an upper, so it’s best to enjoy during the daytime hours.