What are the 10 most popular weed strains in 2024? In this article we’ll dive into the most interesting and popular strains available, to save you from having to research the hundreds of options out there. First, we’ll get into the basics of the characteristics and differences between strains to provide some knowledge to make an informed decision.
Differences between weed strains
The most popular cannabis strains in 2024
How to select the right strain?
Differences between weed strains
Weed strains are very diverse as there are a range of effects, flavors, and aromas. The primary categories, sativa and indica, provide distinctive psychoactive experiences. Sativa strains are often associated with heightened energy, mental clarity, and creativity, making them suitable for daytime use or a proper wake and bake. On the other hand, indica strains are renowned for their relaxing properties, providing a calming effect that can aid in sleep and alleviate stress.
Hybrid strains, blending characteristics of both sativa and indica, further expand the spectrum of effects. These hybrids can be tailored to cater to specific preferences, offering a balance between the uplifting qualities of sativa and the relaxed attributes of indica.
Beyond the psychological effects, the flavor and aroma profiles of weed strains are influenced by terpenes, organic compounds found in our beloved cannabis plant. Each strain boasts a unique combination of terpenes, contributing to a wide array of scents ranging from citrus and pine to earthy and floral. The physical appearance of the plants also varies, with differences in color, size, and density of buds.
Last but not least, all strains contain a variable amount of THC and CBD, resulting in different effects overall. There are even CBD only strains, which are cultivated primarily for its high cannabidiol (CBD) content. These strains are popular for their therapeutic benefits, offering a smoking experience without getting high but which might be helpful for various conditions such as anxiety, pain and inflammation.
As cannabis legalization and acceptance grow, so does the cultivation and exploration of new strains, resulting in a dynamic and ever-expanding market that serve to diverse consumer tastes and needs.
The most popular cannabis strains in 2024
Purple weed strains
Purple weed strains, also known as "Purple strains," are valued not only for their specific characteristics but also for their aesthetic beauty. These cannabis plants have beautiful purple and pink colors, making them favorites among growers. This appealing appearance is facilitated by a higher concentration of ‘’anthocyanins’’ in purple weed seeds, genetically determined purple pigments. Consequently, the plant takes on a distinct purple tint, varying based on the anthocyanin concentration. The same anthocyanins are for example also in fruits like blueberries and flowers, it are pigments responsible for red, purple and blue colors in plants.
The visual beauty of purple weed strains adds an artistic element to cultivation and is often indicative of successful genetics. Beside their good looks, purple weed strains typically share similar characteristics with other cannabis varieties. However, some growers suggest that the purple coloration is accompanied by unique flavor profiles and potencies. This makes them appealing not only to cultivators but also to users seeking both visual appeal and a pleasurable cannabis experience.
Our favorite purple cannabis strain is Purple Haze, available in quite some Coffeeshops (weed dispensaries) in The Netherlands.
Other examples of popular purple cannabis strains are: Purple Berry Kush, Purple Punch and Purple Urkle, Puple Power, Obama Kush and Purple Skunk.
OG Kush
OG Kush stands as one of the most globally popular Kush strains today. It is an Indica-dominant cannabis variety with a high THC percentage and a moderate CBD level, delivering a potent combination of physical and mental effects. The Kush genetics trace back to plants originating from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and the Hindu Kush mountains in northern India.
The exact origin of OG Kush is a subject of debate. Some sources claim it comes from a combination of ChemDawg with Lemon Thai and Pakistani Kush, while others argue that it is a clone of a ChemDawg plant from the 1990s. Even the meaning of the "OG" in OG Kush is a topic of discussion, with many speculating that it stands for "Ocean Grown," reflecting its supposed coastal cultivation origin.
Regardless of the uncertain origin, OG Kush has gained immense popularity for its robust effects, combining relaxation with mental clarity. Its distinctive aroma and flavor profile, often featuring earthy, citrus, and diesel notes, contribute to its iconic status in global cannabis culture.
Amnesia Haze
Amnesia Haze stands out as a renowned and globally popular cannabis strain, known for its uplifting and euphoric effects. This predominantly Sativa-leaning hybrid contains a high THC content, delivering a energetic high that has earned it a place among the favorites of cannabis enthusiasts.
The genetics of Amnesia Haze trace back to Southeast Asian and Jamaican landrace strains, contributing to its unique and complex flavor profile. Users often report a combination of citrus, lemon, and earthy undertones, making it a flavorful smoking sesh!
Amnesia Haze plants are characterized by their tall stature and long, dense colas, making them visually striking during cultivation. The strain has a relatively extended flowering period, but the payoff in terms of potency and yield is often considered well worth the wait.
Named for its tendency to induce a temporary amnesia-like state, this strain is prized for its ability to elevate mood, stimulate creativity, and some users even report a better concentration.
Blue weed strains
Blue weed strains look stunning and are often a mix of Indica and Sativa, giving them a nice balance. However, not all weed plants turn blue; they need the right genetic makeup for that. Just as with the purple weed strains, their unique color comes from anthocyanins, natural compounds that make plants blue, purple, or red. So, when you see blue cannabis, it's because these compounds are more pronounced. Besides looking cool, these strains offer a mix of relaxing and uplifting effects, making them very popular among cannabis enthusiasts. As breeders keep experimenting, these blue strains showcase the cool intersection of genetics and good looks in the world of weed.
A couple of popular blue weed strains you will see often online are: Blueberry OG, Blue Gelato 41 (more about Gelato later!) and Blueberry Cheese.
Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue, also known as GG4 or Original Glue is a highly popular and potent cannabis strain. This hybrid strain is well-balanced, combining elements of both Indica and Sativa genetics, offering users a diverse and robust experience.
The origins of Gorilla Glue come from the crossbreeding of Chem's Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel strains. The result is a strain known for its strong aroma, often featuring a mix of earthy, diesel, and coffee notes. The name "Gorilla Glue" reflects not only the strain's stickiness but also its ability to "glue" users to a state of deep relaxation.
Gorilla Glue is known for its high THC which result in powerful and long-lasting effects. For us this strain stands out for the euphoric experience and a nice body high.
This strain also stands out in the resin production, making them ideal for extracting concentrates. As a versatile and potent option in the cannabis market, Gorilla Glue continues to grow in popularity among cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
This strain will most definitely give you the muchies! Ever wondered why cannabis gives you the munchies? We sorted it out for you!
Northern Lights
Looking for a more Indica dominant strain? Northen Lights might just be the strain you need! Northern Lights is a legendary and influential cannabis strain that has stood the test of time since its emergence in the 1980s. Known for its resilience, ease of cultivation, and potent effects, Northern Lights has become one of the most popular strains in the cannabis community.
This strain is a product of the crossbreeding of Afghani and Thai landrace strains which approximately 90% Indica. Northern Lights is known for the relaxed high as well as a soothing body high, which are often chosen by people who want to relief stress and insomnia. It has not the highest THC level on the market, making it a well-balanced relaxation,
With a sweet and earthy aroma, Northern Lights offers a pleasant sensory experience to complement its calming effects. Personally this is our favorite Indica dominant strain, as it gives a very chill high without getting too sleepy.
Gelato
Gelato, a hybrid strain born from Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, has captivated stoners with its sweet flavors and vibrant appearance. Known for its colorful, resinous buds, Gelato offers a well-balanced high, starting with a euphoric cerebral buzz before easing into a relaxing body sensation. Its relatively easy cultivation and rewarding yields contribute to its growing popularity, making Gelato a favored choice for those seeking a flavorful and balanced cannabis experience.
Super Lemon Haze
One of our personal favorite strains of which we have a lot of good memories is the award winning Super Lemon Haze. This strain is leaning to Sativa hybrid, born from Super Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk. It has multiple prices at Cannabis Cups, increasing its popularity.
Because of the crossing with Lemon Skunk, this strain has a distinctive lemon aroma and flavor profile. It is known for its high THC content and delivers a potent high.
Visually, Super Lemon Haze is characterized by dense and resinous buds, showcasing a bright green color with undertones of yellow and orange. The trichome-covered flowers add to its overall appeal, making it a favorite among weed connoisseurs and growers all over the world.
Wedding Cake
The Wedding Cake strain is also know as Pink Cookies and Triangle Mints #23. One of the parents of this strain, Girl Scout Cookies, is the same as Gelato. The other parent is Cherry Pie, resulting in an indica-dominant hybrid which offers a gentle high that's perfect for relaxation. Its buds are covered in trichomes, giving them a frosty appearance, and the aroma is a sweet blend of vanilla and earthy notes. Wedding Cake is celebrated for its mellow effects, easing stress and bringing a sense of calm without causing overwhelming sedation. Whether you're celebrating or unwinding, Wedding Cake provides a flavorful and easygoing cannabis experience, making it ideal for many occasions.
We can’t wait to add some Wedding Cake to our wedding cake 😉
Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express, a popular and playful strain, is known for its tropical flavor and uplifting effects. This sativa-dominant hybrid is a cross between Trainwreck and Hawaiian strains, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic cannabis experience. The buds of Pineapple Express are characterized by their vibrant green color, orange hairs, and resinous trichomes.
The strain's name is not just catchy; it reflects its unique blend of pineapple and fruity notes, creating a sweet and refreshing taste. Pineapple Express gained cannabis cultural recognition because of the similar named stoner movie.
We have not found it yet in The Netherlands, but can’t wait to smoke this strain!
How to select the right strain?
Selecting the most suitable cannabis strain for you involves several factors. Of course it is a very personal journey, but we’ll help you out with some tips to choose a strain that best fits your preferences:
- Define for what reason you want to use weed? Do you want to use it for relaxation, creativity, pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects or any of the other purposes cannabis offers?
- Take a look at the CBD and THC contents in the available strains. THC is responsible for the high feeling, CBD provides plenty of potential therapeutic benefits.
- Understand the differences between Indica, Sativa and Hybrid strains. Then take in mind what the reason is you want to smoke weed and choose between the prior accordingly.
- Above are in our opinion more important before you start to research more specifically into the aromas and flavors of the strains. But when you have decided you want to go for example for a Indica-dominated strain it is definitely a lot of fun to dive into the wide range of aromas and flavors available.
- There are websites available with a lot of reviews and recommendations about each strain, which can give you more insight into the strain specifics.
- Experiment and keep a journal. Cannabis affects individuals differently, so experiment with different strains and keep a journal to track your experiences as well as which tastes and aromas work best for you.
- Last but not least, start with a low dosage! Especially if you are new to weed, search for buds with low THC levels to avoid overwhelming experiences. Once you become more comfortable you can start exploring more potent strains.
