People always ask us what weed strains to smoke, and the answer depends on how you want to feel, what situation you’ll be in, and what other strains you like.
But there are some classic weed strains that everyone should try, just like certain albums, movies, or paintings. How can you be a stoner if you’ve never smoked GSC, Granddaddy Purp, or Gorilla Glue?
So here’s our curated list of the 100 best weed strains of 2022, broken up into eight groups of effects as commonly reported by smokers. Under each strain you’ll find info on lineage, type—indica, sativa, or hybrid—dominant terpene, activities it’s good for, backstory, why we love it, and where to buy it around you. We pulled in expertise from Leafly editors, staff, and subject matter experts, as well as popularity data. We did not receive money or kickbacks for any listings.
Leafly’s 100 best weed strains checklist
How we chose the 100 best weed strains
We originally published this list back in 2015 and it’s changed a lot since then. The list has rotated through at least 50 strains to reflect current tastes and trends in weed. This year, we’re taking it up to 11 with a new batch of classics, and we said goodbye to some as well.
Say hello to:
Wave goodbye to:
- G13
- Afgooey
- Romulan
- OGKB
- Gorilla Cookies
- Banana Punch
- XJ-13
- Apple Jack
- Red Congolese
- Jillybean
- Alaskan Thunder Fuck
Carrying the mantle of old staples into the next generation are newer classics like Biscotti, Rainbow Belts, Motorbreath, and White Rhino. And some oldies but goodies not previously on the list include MK Ultra, Ghost Train Haze, and Pennywise. We also updated some of our Cookies and Punches with Animal Cookies and Papaya Punch, as well as newer OG Khalifa Kush. And Watermelon Zkittlez is just as tasty as its name suggests.
Although most of them are classics, a lot of the strains we said goodbye to just aren’t that popular anymore. We haven’t seen Afgooey, Romulan, G13, or Jillybean on many dispensary shelves lately, while some others have more famous descendants or crosses. And love or hate the name, it’s been a while since we’ve seen any Alaskan Thunder Fuck.
Best weed strains for feeling euphoric
These euphoric strains will send you to the moon and back.
Original Glue
Known for its stickiness and ability to glue you to the couch, GG4 is a modern classic with a unique flavor.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
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Showing you dispensaries nearParent strains:Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, Chocolate Diesel
Activities: Spacing out, chilling on the couch
Backstory: Known for its potency and ability to glue you to the couch, Original Glue, better known as “Gorilla Glue” or “GG4,” has long been one of the most searched for strains on Leafly. The love for Glue is strong, and breeders continue to cross it to make new and exciting strains with unique flavors.
Why we love it: We love Gorilla Glue for its classic, unique flavor and potency. You can’t have a best strains list without it.
Wedding Cake
Have your cake and smoke it too.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Triangle Kush, Animal Mints
Activity: Chilling on the couch, hanging with friends, spacing out
Backstory: The strain that started the cake craze, Wedding Cake is relaxing with a strong body and head high, likely from its Kush and Cookies lineage. The mix of Triangle Kush and Animal Mints gives it a unique rich and tangy flavor profile with sweet cookie notes.
Why we love it: Have your cake and smoke it too—there’s a reason why this strain spawned many more cakes and was Leafly’s Strain of the year in 2019.
GSC
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:OG Kush, Durban Poison
Activities: Chilling on the couch, hanging with friends, spacing out
Backstory:GSC is a cross of a Durban Poison pheno (F1 Durb) and an elite OG Kush. Later marketed to acclaim by rapper Berner, GSC, or Cookies, became the foundation of one of the top cannabis cultivar families of the legalization era, spawning multiple strains like Gelato and pretty much anything with “Cookies” in its name.
The best GSCs look dense, dark, and glistening, with a complex and inviting smell, layers of grape and fuel, and scrumptious butter-sugar cookie notes.
Why we love it: GSC took the throne from OG Kush to usher in the dessert strain era, which continues today with Gelato and Cake varieties. Few strains will ever be as singularly influential.
Northern Lights
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Northern Lights is one of the most famous strains—an indica that has given rise to countless hybrids.
Activities: Chilling on the couch, doing nothing, hangover relief
Backstory:Northern Lights is one of the most famous strains of all time and has given rise to countless famous hybrids. It supposedly originated near Seattle, Washington, but was bred in Holland in the late ’80s by what is now Sensi Seeds.
An indica cherished for its resinous buds, the pungently sweet and spicy Northern Lights will relax the muscles and pacify the mind in dreamy euphoria.
Why we love it: It’s a storied Pacific Northwest transplant blanketed in starry, crystal-tipped trichomes.
Chemdog
With a mysterious origin and a slew of successful crosses, Chemdog has secured a permanent place in the cannabis hall of fame.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains: Unknown (likely Nepalese and Thai)
Backstory: With a mysterious origin and a slew of successful crosses, Chemdog (or “Chemdawg”) has secured a permanent place in the cannabis hall of fame.
Known for its distinct, diesel aroma you can smell a mile away, Chemdog is parent to powerhouse strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush, to name a few. Expect a potent, cerebral experience full of euphoria.
Why we love it: Chemdog is an influential and mysterious strain with a unique diesel flavor and high potency.
Trainwreck
Strain type: Hybrid
A quintessential sativa-dominant hybrid, Trainwreck’s intense rush of energy hits like a freight train.
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Mexican, Thai, Afghani
Backstory: Classic sativas Mexican and Thai were bred with iconic indica Afghani to create the potent sativa-dominant hybrid Trainwreck. A Northern California staple, Trainwreck has a sweet lemon and spicy pine aroma and an intense rush of energy that hits like a freight train, awakening creativity and happiness.
Why we love it: The classic Trainwreck hails from famous lineage and is still popular with its potent, uplifting effects.
GMO Cookies
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Activities: Chilling on the couch, spacing out
Backstory: A pungent offspring of Chemdog and GSC, GMO Cookies is savory, stanky, and strong, and dumps hash for rosin. “GMO” may bother some, so you’ll also see it as “Garlic Cookies.”
Why we love it: GMO’s mix of chem and cookies unlocked a whole new world of funk we’re all nodding our heads to. When you get bored with dessert, join the salty adults puffing on pot’s equivalent of rowdy blue cheese. Keep an eye out for other acquired tastes, like Everything Bagel (Garlic Breath x Peanut Butter Breath).
Mendo Breath
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Mendo Montage, OGKB
Activities: Relaxing at night, spacing out
Backstory:Mendo Breath is a heavy-hitting indica that offers a great way to end the day with its powerful body effects. Expect sleepy and relaxing effects and intense euphoria from its frosty buds fit for Instagram.
Why we love it: Mendo Breath is perfect for the fall season; its sweet vanilla and caramel flavors pair perfectly with a chilly autumn evening.
Motorbreath
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Chemdog, SFV OG
Activities: Chilling on the couch, conversations with friends
Backstory: Breath strains are not to be taken lightly, and Motorbreath is no exception, crossing classics Chemdog and SFV OG. Potent, gassy, and earthy, you won’t forget the taste of this strain when your head’s in the clouds.
Why we love it: Not for the faint of heart, this unique strain’s got chem and kush flavors for days.
Forbidden Fruit
With a unique high that starts between your eyes and melts outward, Forbidden Fruit balances sweetness and sharp citrus for a tropical burst of flavor.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Tangie, Cherry Pie
Activities: Watching cerebral TV/movies, spacing out, chilling on the couch while scrolling TikTok
Backstory:Forbidden Fruit has a unique high that starts between your eyes and slowly melts outward. The sweetness of its Cherry Pie parent balances out the sharp citrus Tangie to create a tropical burst of flavor and aromatics.
Why we love it: Forbidden Fruit tastes and smells incredible and is for anyone who loves tropical and citrus flavors and wants a mellow indica high that isn’t overwhelming.
Gushers
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Gelato #41, Triangle Kush
Activities: An after-hours dessert treat
Backstory:Gushers mixes new powerhouse Gelato #41 with the mythical Triangle Kush for a gassy and tropical fruit-flavored strain. Initially energizing and then sedating, Gushers is beautiful, multi-colored, dense, and glistening.
Why we love it: The smell jumps out of the jar and splashes your nose with astringent topical fruit, as your brain says, “Dayam!” and your mouth says, “Yes, please.”
Alien OG
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: Tahoe OG, Alien Kush
Activities: Doing chores, spacing out, creative projects
Backstory: Hailing from California, Alien OG was created to deliver intense effects to the head and the body. This potent strain will take everybody to outer space.
Why we love it: Alien OG is a sativa-dominant hybrid that will make you feel like you’re on holiday while you’re doing yardwork or brainstorming your next creative project.
Rainbow Belts
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Zkittlez, Moonbow
Activities: Conversations with friends, chilling on the couch
Backstory:Rainbow Belts is packed with Zkittlez and Dosidos genes, a newer strain great for making you happy and relaxed. This crowd-pleaser is best for the end of the night or hanging with friends.
Why we love it: This descendant of Zkittlez brings calming effects and sweet, tropical flavors to a new generation.
Best weed strains for feeling uplifted
Put a smile on your face with these uplifting strains.
Dutch Treat
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains:Northern Lights, Haze
Activities: Hanging out with friends, conversations, chilling on the couch
Backstory:Dutch Treat is a classic known for its cerebral effects that come on quick and will leave you uplifted and euphoric. Its dense, sticky buds have an intense smell of sweet fruit mixed with pine and eucalyptus trees.
Why we love it: Dutch Treat is potent and has a unique sweet candy and pine flavor that has made it a longtime favorite in Amsterdam and across the world.
MAC
The cannabis version of mixing together all the sodas at 7-Eleven, Miracle Alien Cookies barely survived a laundry accident.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Alien Cookies, Starfighter
Activities: Eating an entire bowl of popcorn while watching a silly movie
Backstory: Short for “Miracle Alien Cookies,” MAC has beastly big, dense, and icy colas with blistering THC levels. Related strain MAC 1 came about when breeder Capulator nearly lost all of his Starfighter seeds in the laundry and named the survivor “Miracle.”
Why we love it: It’s got a complex cookie nose—the cannabis version of mixing together all the sodas at 7-Eleven. MAC is taking over the country, with its offspring close behind.
Mimosa
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Clementine, Purple Punch
Activities: Brunch pre-gaming with your friends
Backstory:Mimosa started as a small project in California and turned into a global multi-award-winner. Its makers masterfully combine approachable, effervescent citrus tastes and sativa-dominant effects. Clementine brings massive yields to the strain, while Purple Punch brings a powerful bag appeal.
Why we love it: Mimosa grows coast to coast and is great for weekend wake-and-bakers who want to savor a lazy Sunday morning.
Strawberry Cough
This potent sativa is known for its strawberry scent and ability to make even the most seasoned smokers cough.
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Haze, Strawberry Fields
Activities: Hanging out with friends, conversations, chilling on the couch
Backstory: A potent sativa known for its strawberry scent and ability to make even the most seasoned smokers cough, Strawberry Cough will capture your senses with cerebral, uplifting effects that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Why we love it: This exceptionally delicious sativa will have you inhaling a lungful of fresh strawberry flavor.
Cheese
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Pinene
Parent strains: Skunk 1
Activities: Making dinner with friends, conversation
Backstory: Cheese has always been a standout thanks to its fragrant, cheesy scent. This indica-dominant hybrid from the UK came onto the scene in the late ’80s and continues to inspire munchies everywhere.
Why we love it: How can we deny an odorous gem like Cheese her props? The smell is iconic in its own right. Think of it as the special ingredient to elevate your taco night to a similarly incredible status.
Blueberry Muffins
Strain Type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent Strains:Blueberry
Activity: Listening to music, hanging with friends
Backstory: Just like a freshly baked tray of Blueberry Muffins, this strain is sweet, smooth, and creamy. Any descendant of legendary Blueberry will make you relaxed, happy, and erase the worries of your day.
Why we love it: We love how this strain looks and smells—why not start your day with a tasty Blueberry Muffin?
Stardawg
Strain Type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent Strains:Chemdog #4, Tres Dog
Activity: Chilling on the couch, stargazing, hanging with friends
Backstory: With so much Chemdog in its roots, Stardawg can’t help but have a heavy diesel funk with notes of pine and lemon. This happy strain is great for getting rid of stress, and staring at its blanket of sparkling trichomes is like gazing at the stars.
Why we love it: We love Stardawg for its diesel bite, but be sure to have a bag of chips around.
Kush Mints
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Animal Mints, Bubba Kush
Activities: Listening to music, hanging with friends
Backstory: Super strong ’90s strain Bubba Kush combines with the amped up Animal Mints to make bestseller Kush Mints. Its icy-dark, dense nugs smell just like mint and Cookies and are great for growing in hydroponics.
Why we love it: For a Cookies smell so loud it’s minty, and for happy relaxation in a nug, Kush Mints is hard to beat.
Orange Creamsicle
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Orange Crush, Juicy Fruit
Activities: Chilling on the beach, hanging with friends
Backstory: Orange Creamsicle offers classic, old school genetics that are still going strong—it’s got California Orange, Blueberry, and Thai deep in it, bringing out a creamy citrus smell and taste.
Why we love it: This strain is a creamy orange treat and we are here for it. Its mild daytime effects appeal to novice smokers as well as nostalgic old-timers.
Key Lime Pie
For cookie lovers who want something a little mellower and tangier, grab a slice of Pie.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:GSC phenotype—OG Kush x Durban Poison
Activities: Playing video games, watching TV/movies
Backstory: Key Lime Pie is a phenotype of GSC, so it has similar effects but is a little more subdued. What will be different is its flavor, which tastes like fresh squeezed limes with sweet undertones.
Why we love it: Who doesn’t like key lime pie? For Cookie lovers who want something a little mellower and tangier, grab a slice of Pie.
Lemon Tree
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Lemon Skunk, Sour Diesel
Activities: People watching, getting outside, hanging with friends
Backstory: Combining classics Lemon Skunk and Sour Diesel, Lemon Tree made a big splash in the 2010s. Nothing beats this green, spongy, pungent bud for an unforgettable modern lemon flavor that’s become endemic through offspring like Gelonade and Melonade.
Why we love it: Lemon Tree conjures up warm, sunny beaches and the satisfaction of rolling around in the ocean.
Grape Pie
Strain Type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent Strains:Cherry Pie, Grape Stomper
Activity: Chilling on the couch, watching TV/movies
Backstory: Sour and sugary Grape Pie mixes classic Cherry Pie with a little bit of Sour Diesel—from the Grape Stomper. This looks like an old school purp strain and will make you happy with a bag of chips on the couch.
Why we love it: Grape Pie’s sugar and sour taste and happy effects are one-of-a-kind.
Mango
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: Afghani, KC 33
Activities: Exercising, stretching after a workout
Backstory: Mango is known for its juicy, fruity flavor and for the way it helps the body relax. It can help with soreness after a workout, but it’s also known for boosting your mood and sending you into a chill day with just one hit.
Why we love it: Stretching is a great way to connect with your body. If you can’t stretch your body, you can always use Mango to help stretch your imagination to new heights or just vibe out on its tropical scent.
Best weed strains for feeling relaxed
Chill out with some of our favorite relaxing strains.
OG Kush
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
The prodigious strain that gave rise to innumerable iconic West Coast hybrids.
Parent strains: Unknown; possibly Hindu Kush, Chemdog, and Lemon Thai
Activities: Chilling on the couch, doing nothing, hangover relief
Backstory:OG Kush makes up the genetic backbone of West Coast cannabis hybrids, but in spite of its ubiquity, its genetic origins remain something of a mystery.
Popular myth maintains that Chemdog and Hindu Kush parented OG Kush. However, we can’t be sure—the story goes that cultivator Josh D. started OG Kush from a bagseed from Florida.
There are many different phenotypes of OG Kush, including Tahoe OG, SFV OG, and Alpha OG. OG Kush is cherished for its ability to crush stress and chill you out with its heavy euphoria.
Why we love it: It’s a prodigious strain that gave rise to innumerable iconic West Coast hybrids.
Ice Cream Cake
Ice Cream Cake before bed just may be better than eating ice cream cake in bed.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: Wedding Cake, Gelato #33
Activities: Listening to music
Backstory: The green and purple beauty of Ice Cream Cake is complemented by the sweet scent of vanilla wafting off its frosty buds. It’s truly a dessert strain, perfect for the end of the day when you are ready to turn in.
Why we love it: Who doesn’t need better sleep these days? Ice Cream Cake before bed just may be better than eating ice cream cake in bed.
Dosidos
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: Face-Off OG, OGKB
Activities: Chilling on the couch, watching TV/movies
Backstory: What OG Kush was to the 1990s, Do-Si-Dos is becoming in the 2020s. Bred from multiple high-THC strains descended from OG Kush, Dosi’s classic OG relaxation has made it one of the top strains in the West, and it has spawned modern strains like Slurricane.
Why we love it: It’s as gorgeous, intense, and icy as a double black diamond ski run. Don’t plan to operate heavy machinery or do much of anything while your mind wanders for a bit.
Slurricane
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Do-Si-Dos, Purple Punch
Activities: Best enjoyed in backyard birthday party doinks that’ll get everyone nicely lit
Backstory: Crossing Do-Si-Dos and Purple Punch, Slurricane joins forces to form that cool new band everyone’s talking about. If Purple Punch doesn’t have enough punch and Dosi is too strong, Slurricane, with its layer of trichomes and grape candy gas smell, may be your answer.
Why we love it: It’s purple, gassy, and plenty strong yet manageable. It’s mega-fun, as pot should be.
Apple Fritter
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: Unknown
Activities: Getting ready for bed, chilling on the couch
Backstory: This potent hybrid will get your attention with its lumpy bud structure and colorful foliage boasting shades of olive green, orange, and deep purple. The smell of Apple Fritter is extremely pungent, and the flavor is reminiscent of apples.
Why we love it: Because of Apple Fritter’s potency, this strain is great for experienced smokers with a high tolerance who need a little something extra to get a good night of sleep or to simply take the edge off.
Peanut Butter Breath
So dank it’s savory, like roasted, salted peanut butter. PB Breath is the first star in the trend of nutty strains.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Do-Si-Dos, Mendo Breath
Activities: Spacing out and watching the sea while dozing in a hammock
Backstory: Cannabis farmerslove weed so much, their THC tolerances get high and their palates grow bored. Punching through that to deliver a dank delight, Peanut Butter Breath is a strong, savory cross of Do-Si-Dos and Mendo Breath.
Why we love it: It can smell and taste so dank it’s savory, like roasted, salted peanut butter. And then it’ll put you on your bum. PB Breath is the first star in the trend of nutty strains.
Grape Ape
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene:Myrcene
Parent strains:Mendocino Purps, Skunk, Afghani
Activities: Chilling on the couch, watching TV/movies
Backstory: Grape Ape is an indica that crosses three powerhouse parents. Named for its distinct grape smell, its dense buds with purple leaves will give you carefree relaxation.
Why we love it: Grape Ape is a famous genetic collaboration that combines phenomenal cultivars by renowned breeders.
LA Kush Cake
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Wedding Cake, Kush Mints
Activities: Getting intimate, chilling on the couch, watching TV/movies
Backstory:LA Kush Cake is a potent hybrid that is smooth and easy to smoke and leans heavily toward the indica side. Its effects might take a while to kick in, but you’ll feel your body relax and unwind in bliss.
Why we love it: LA Kush Cake has a reputation for making people aroused. Coupled with physical relaxation, this strain can set the mood for intimacy.
Mazar x Blueberry OG
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:OG Kush, Mazar x Blueberry
Activities: Spacing out, watching TV/movies
Backstory: Some weed strains start off under great names only to be subject to copyright laws later on, and Mazar x Blueberry OG is no exception. This potent hybrid is known for a spicy herbal scent mixed with jet fuel and will take you to a galaxy far, far away.
Why we love it: This OG is great at relieving pain and is reported to make smokers feel tingly.
Master Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strain:Hindu Kush
Activities: Chilling out, meditation, watching TV/movies
Backstory:Master Kush is a popular indica created from two landrace strains from different parts of the Hindu Kush region. Bred in the Netherlands, the plant has a subtle earthy hash smell with hints of citrus. This strain offers full-body relaxation and a sharp sensory awareness.
Why we love it: This heavy Kush has deep body effects without the hazy head high and is known for its fine genetics.
Afghani
Afghani is believed to be one of the oldest strains and is a parent of many modern crosses.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: None; landrace strain
Activities: Chilling out, watching TV/movies
Backstory:Afghani is a heavy indica strain named for its region of origin. It’s believed to be one of the oldest strains and is a parent of many modern ones. Known for its heavy resin production, it’s great for making hash.
Why we love it: It’s a landrace strain with famous sedative qualities and generous resin production.
Animal Cookies
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Activities: Chilling on the couch, watching a movie
Backstory: Descended from the ever-popular GSC, Animal Cookies mixes up the Cookies lineage with potent Fire OG. This strong strain will have you relaxed and high as a kite.
Why we love it: A sweet and sour mix of the classic Cookies strains, this strain’s a stunner with beautiful purple buds.
Khalifa Kush
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: OG Kush
Activities: Chilling out, laughing with friends, watching a silly movie
Backstory: Bred specifically for rapper Wiz Khalifa, Khalifa Kush comes from an unknown version OG Kush. It’ll have similar sour and lemon notes as its parent, and can be great for creativity.
Why we love it: This all-around great strain is good for day or night, and updates the classic OG Kush for a new generation of stoners.
Zkittlez
Zkittlez has quickly become a new classic with its tropical flavors and uplifting effects, and it also makes an absolutely delicious dab.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Grape Ape, Grapefruit
Activities: Doing work, going on a hike
Backstory:Zkittlez is an award-winning indica with chunky light green colas and a sweet, fruity, and tropical blend of flavors. The effects of Zkittlez are surprisingly uplifting for an indica, leaving consumers focused, alert, and happy, while relaxing the body.
Why we love it: Zkittlez has quickly become a new classic with its tropical flavors and uplifting effects, and it also makes an absolutely delicious dab.
Best weed strains for feeling sleepy
Catch some z’s with these sleepy strains.
Granddaddy Purple
King among indicas, this flavorful bud is great for falling asleep at the end of a long day.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Purple Urkle, Big Bud
Activities: Chilling on the couch, sleeping
Backstory:Granddaddy Purple (or GDP) is a famous indica cross, inheriting a complex grape and berry aroma from its Purple Urkle parent, while Big Bud passes on a dense bud structure.
GDP flowers bloom with shades of deep purple, a beautiful backdrop for its snow-like dusting of white trichomes. Its potent effects are mainly felt in the body, and growers love GDP for its massive yields.
Why we love it: King among indicas, this flavorful bud offers berry flavors and pacifying effects; it’s great for falling asleep at the end of a long day. Its purple foliage makes it one of the prettiest buds out there.
Purple Punch
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains: Larry OG, Granddaddy Purple
Activities: Relaxing your mind and racing thoughts
Backstory: Purple Punch lives up to its name as the child of two heavy-hitting indicas. With high amounts of THC and the power to relax muscles, it might just knock you out—don’t make too many plans.
Why we love it: Purple Punch is good to have around when you’re committed to being home for the night. It goes best with your softest pajamas and a comfy nook with pillows.
White Rhino
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:White Widow, North American Indica
Activities: Chilling on the couch, getting ready for bed
Backstory: This beast of a strain lives up to its name—it’ll hit you hard and put you down for the count. Not surprising, considering White Rhino’s classic lineage with White Widow.
Why we love it: This heavy-hitter is great for the end of the night when you’ve cozied up and sleep is close by.
Bubba Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strain:OG Kush, likely Afghani
Activities: Chilling on the couch, napping
Backstory:Bubba Kush is an indica strain known for its tranquilizing, sleep-inducing effects. It has sweet hash flavors with subtle notes of chocolate and coffee.
Its genetic origins aren’t clear, but Bubba’s stocky stature and bulky bud structure suggest Afghani descent. It supposedly emerged in the mid-’90s when an OG Kush pollinated an unknown indica in New Orleans. The genetically ambiguous indica was simply called “Bubba,” and Bubba Kush has flourished ever since.
Why we love it: It’s a crazy-popular tranquilizing Kush born and bred in the USA.
Purple Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Purple Afghani, Hindu Kush
Activities: Relaxing around the house or getting ready for bed
Backstory: Hailing from Oakland, California, Purple Kush has become a sensation all across the West Coast with its long-lasting euphoria and ability to put you to sleep.
Why we love it: Purple Kush makes us sleepy and euphoric at the same time, perfect for great sleep and chill dreams.
LA Confidential
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: LA Affie, Afghani
Activities: Stargazing
Backstory: LA Confidential fills your nose with notes of pine and hits your tongue with the taste of skunk. It relaxes the body thanks to its high presence of myrcene; don’t be surprised if you curl up for a snooze.
Why we love it: LA Confidential is a West Coast fav that has gained lots of popularity outside of California, probably because it’s calming but still lends itself to enjoying beautiful skies and great fireside conversation.
9 Pound Hammer
Like getting hit with a 9-pound hammer, this heavy-hitter has long-lasting sedative effects.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Gooberry, Hell’s OG, Jack the Ripper
Activities: Hangover relief, chilling out, sleeping
Backstory: 9 Pound Hammer is a heavy-hitting indica strain with dense buds coated in resin, offering sweet grape and lime flavors, and long-lasting sedative effects.
Why we love it: 9 Pound Hammer looks beautiful in the garden and has a unique sweet, funky smell and taste that lead to deep relaxation.
Purple Urkle
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Mendocino Purps
Activities: Chilling on the couch, napping, doing nothing
Backstory:Purple Urkle is believed to have come from a phenotype of Mendocino Purps with a complex flavor palate that blends skunk, berry, and grape notes. Its effects come on quick and are deeply relaxing and sleep-inducing, providing full-body bliss.
Why we love it: Its complex mix of flavors, stemming from a beautiful purple flower, lead to full-body relaxation.
Blackberry Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Blackberry, Afghani
Activities: Best used after exercise or being on your feet all day
Backstory: Blackberry Kush, also known as “BBK,” is known for its strong body high. There is no waiting around for the high here—its effects will hit you straight away and have you feeling calm in all the right places.
Why we love it: With a low potency, Blackberry Kush is a strain that anyone can enjoy, no matter your tolerance. We also love that it tastes just as you would expect: bold blackberry notes that are sweet and earthy.
Hindu Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: None; landrace strain
Activities: Meditation, relaxing, napping
Backstory:Hindu Kush is a landrace indica named for the mountain range between Pakistan and Afghanistan, where it originated. The harsh climate conditioned the plant to grow a thick protective layer of trichomes, making this strain great for making hash.
Why we love it: Hindu Kush has a subtlely sweet and earthy sandalwood aroma with hints of berry and induces a deep sense of calm.
Pink Kush
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:OG Kush
Activities: Getting a massage, relaxing, napping
Backstory: True to its name, Pink Kush often has pink hairs bursting from its bright green buds, but not always. This indica-dominant hybrid brings on a powerful body high through aromas of sweet vanilla and candy perfume.
Why we love it: For OG Kush lovers, this sugary-sweet strain melts away stress better than a massage.
Papaya Punch
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains: Papaya, Purple Punch
Activities: Relaxing on the couch, taking a nap
Backstory: Combining favorites Papaya and Purple Punch (both on this list as well), Papaya Punch brings sweet, fruity flavors to your couch chill time.
Why we love it: With tropical flavors and a hint of cheese, this one’s great for watching a silly movie.
MK Ultra
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Activities: Relaxing, taking a nap
Backstory: Potent and pungent, MK Ultra isn’t for newbies. This solid plant is best grown indoors and yields big, and is best for winding down before bed. Beware of the munchies.
Why we love it: Not to be confused with the CIA mind-control program of the ‘50s, this strain’s name still nods to mysterious origins with its parent G13.
Blueberry
Strain type: Indica
Dominate terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Afghani, Thai, Purple Thai
Backstory: With a long history dating back to DJ Short in the 1970s, pretty much any strain with “blue” in its name has Blueberry in its roots. This happy indica is known for its blueberry taste and aroma and long-lasting euphoric and relaxing effects.
Why we love it: It’s the indica that brought the distinct flavor of blueberry to the cannabis world. Be sure to check out the West Coast version, DJ Short Blueberry—it’s one of the most aromatic strains you can get.
Best weed strains for feeling energetic
Get amped up with these energetic strains.
Sour Diesel
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
One of the most well-known sativas, Sour Diesel smells just like its name.
Parent strains:Chemdog, Super Skunk
Activities: Going outside, housework, chores, hiking
Backstory:Sour Diesel, aka Sour D, is a legendary sativa named for its pungent, diesel-like aroma. First coming out in the early ’90s, this fast-acting strain delivers energizing, dreamy, and cerebral effects, perfect for going outside and getting the job done.
Why we love it: One of the most popular sativas still, Sour Diesel smells just like its name and promotes focus and productivity.
Pineapple Express
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Trainwreck, Hawaiian
Activities: Going outside, doing work, hiking
Backstory:Pineapple Express combines the potent and flavorful forces of its parent strains, with a smell that mixes pineapple, mango, pine, and cedar. This hard-hitting sativa hybrid provides a long-lasting energetic buzz perfect for productive afternoons and creative escapes.
Why we love it: There’s a reason this strain is a fan favorite: The taste is delightfully tropical with a pleasantly mellow buzz that will leave you giggling. It’s also a versatile strain, great for both day and nighttime.
Maui Wowie
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Hawaiian
Activities: Going outside, chilling out
Backstory:Maui Wowie is a classic sativa with tropical flavors that will take you straight to the shores of Hawaii. Known for its high-energy euphoria, stress-relieving qualities, and pineapple flavors, Maui Wowie has spread all across the world.
Why we love it: It’s a beloved tropical-tasting sativa straight from the rich soil of Hawaii.
Durban Poison
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Straight from Africa, Durban provides fuel for focus and creative thought.
Parent strains:African
Activities: Going outside, getting creative
Backstory: Hailing from the South African port city of Durban, Durban Poison is a sativa known for its sweet smell and energetic, uplifting effects, perfect for staying productive.
With chunky buds and a thick coat of trichomes, Durban is revered by hashmakers.
Why we love it: It provides fuel for focus and creative thought.
Acapulco Gold
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Mexican
Activities: Going outside, doing work
Backstory: A classic sativa from Mexico, Acapulco Gold comes in dense round, nuggets with orange hairs and aromas of burnt toffee. It’s known for a motivating, stimulating buzz.
Why we love it: Acapulco Gold has a reputation as one of the best strains ever created—Cheech and Chong even have a song about it.
Green Crack
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Skunk 1
Activities: Exercising, getting outside
Backstory: As its namesake suggests, Green Crack provides an invigorating mental buzz that will keep you going throughout the day. Tangy and fruity, with hints of mango, Green Crack is a perfect daytime strain.
Why we love it: This racy sativa emits sweet earthy flavors, and and will help you understand what cerebral effects are all about.
Super Lemon Haze
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains:Lemon Skunk, Super Silver Haze
Activities: Doing work, getting outside
Backstory:Super Lemon Haze is an update of parent Super Silver Haze, with a zesty, tart, and lemony taste and uniquely energetic, lively, and cerebral effects and has become a modern classic.
Why we love it: A classic sativa with a citrus kick, SLH is colorful, terpy, and fantastic in every way.
Super Silver Haze
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains:Skunk, Northern Lights, Haze
Activities: Doing work, painting, drawing
Backstory:Super Silver Haze was bred in the late ’90s by crossing Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze, giving us a beautiful, sticky sativa with an energetic and long-lasting head high.
Why we love it: A multi-award-winning sativa straight out of Holland, Super Silver Haze is a fragrant strain that fuels creativity and ensures unshakeable good moods.
Tropicana Cookies
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Activities: Doing work, painting, drawing
Backstory: A super flavorful sativa, Tropicana Cookies crosses sweet cookies and orange flavors for focused energy. Buds on this plant are a beautiful deep purple with orange hairs and smell great when you crack the bag.
Why we love it: This strain smells like a glass of orange juice and is great for a little bit of energy and not too much of a buzzy feeling.
White Fire OG
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Fire OG, The White
Activities: Getting creative, reading a book, getting outside
Backstory:White Fire OG, also known as WiFi OG, is a sativa-dominant hybrid with energy and uplifting effects. It gets its sour, earthy, and diesel aroma from parent Fire OG and a coat of resin on top of dense buds from The White.
Why we love it: White Fire OG is a super potent OG variety that’s great when concentrated and dabbed. Its loud aroma and intense euphoria provide a solid knockout combination.
Lamb’s Bread
Hailing from Jamaica, Lamb’s Bread is said to be one of Bob Marley’s favorites.
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strain:Jamaican
Activities: Meditating, hiking in nature
Backstory:Lamb’s Bread, aka “Lamb’s Breath,” is a bright green and sticky sativa, with effects known for giving massive amounts of energy and positive introspection. The plant hails from Jamaica, and it’s said that Bob Marley frequently smoked it.
Why we love it: This native Jamaican strain is known to bring thoughtful, peaceful serenity to the mind, and is rumored to have been one of Bob Marley’s favorites.
Island Sweet Skunk
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Skunk 1
Activities: Doing work, getting outside
Backstory: Hailing from British Columbia, Island Sweet Skunk, sometimes called Sweet Island Skunk, is a sativa enjoyed for its energetic effects. Originally bred by Federation Seed Company in Canada, this strain descends from Skunk 1 and grows tall, straight, high-yielding plants. Some varieties of Island Sweet Skunk have a heightened CBD content.
Why we love it: This energizing Canadian strain is famous for its tangy aroma that blends flavors of citrus and tropical fruit.
Best weed strains for feeling creative
Work on an art project or play some music with these creative strains.
Gelato
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Sunset Sherbet, Thin Mint GSC
Activities: Chilling on the couch, drawing, painting, playing or listening to music
Backstory:Gelato, also known as “Larry Bird,” is a tantalizing hybrid that was Leafly’s 2018 strain of the year. This Bay Area native tends to bloom with dark purple hues and fiery orange hairs, all shining with a white coat of resin. Gelato is known for a euphoric, relaxed, and creative high; proceed with caution with this THC powerhouse.
Why we love it: A great dessert strain, Gelato is sweet and floral with hints of fruit flavors that lead to extreme euphoria.
Blue Dream
The legendary Blue Dream crosses Blueberry and Haze and balances full-body relaxation with a gentle cerebral invigoration.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Blueberry, Haze
Activities: Listening to music, drawing, painting, or writing
Backstory: The legendary Blue Dream is a sativa-dominant hybrid that originated in California. By crossing a Blueberry indica with a sativa Haze, Blue Dream balances full-body relaxation with a gentle cerebral invigoration. Novices and pros alike enjoy Blue Dream’s effects, which ease you gently into a calm euphoria.
Why we love it: Its berry flavor and calming effects continue to make it a classic strain, and one that can be found all over the world.
Jack Herer
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Jack Herer has gained as much renown as its namesake cannabis activist.
Parent strains:Haze, Northern Lights #5, Shiva Skunk
Activities: Drawing, painting, listening to music, chilling on the couch
Backstory:Jack Herer has gained as much renown as its namesake cannabis activist, the famously outspoken author of The Emperor Wears No Clothes. The strain captures both the cerebral elevation associated with sativas and the heavy resin production of indicas, all with a spicy, piney scent scent that has won numerous awards for quality and potency.
Why we love it: A Dutch staple that delivers euphoria with the uplifting scent of pine, Jack Herer continues to be popular among novices and seasoned pros alike.
Bruce Banner
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Strawberry Diesel, OG Kush
Activities: Drawing, painting, writing, playing music
Backstory: A strain of many names, Bruce Banner, aka “Banner” and “OG Banner,” is known for its creative and euphoric buzz. This green monster is very potent, an ideal strain choice for experienced cannabis consumers.
Why we love it: With its lightly sweet and earthy flavors, Banner is great for anyone seeking a long-lasting head high and a kick of mental motivation.
Tangie
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:California Orange, Skunk 1
Activities: Dancing, playing music, conversations
Backstory:Tangie is another fantastic offering from DNA Genetics in Amsterdam that quickly gained popularity and spread like wildfire. It has a refreshing tangerine aroma and sticky buds that provide euphoric yet relaxed effects.
Why we love it: It’s a high-energy sativa with unrivaled flavors of sweet citrus.
Strawberry Banana
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Banana Kush, Bubble Gum
Activity: Drawing, painting, crafting, listening to music
Backstory: Also known as “Strawnana,” Strawberry Banana combines the calming Banana Kush with the potency of a strawberry phenotype of Bubble Gum. Expect chill, relaxing body effects and an active mind.
Why we love it: This happy strain is great for a rainy day inside working on arts and crafts.
Headband
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
The love child of a cannabis power couple, Headband has a smooth, creamy smoke accented by flavors of lemon and diesel.
Parent strains:OG Kush, Sour Diesel
Activities: Listening to music, drawing, painting, chilling on the couch
Backstory: The love child of two powerhouse strains, Headband has a smooth, creamy smoke accented by flavors of lemon and diesel. It gets its name from long-lasting effects great for pain relief and relaxation which supposedly create a band around your head.
Why we love it: A prodigious pairing of OG Kush and Sour Diesel, Headband’s rich, dank smoke goes straight to the dome.
Haze
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:South American, Thai
Activities: Playing sports, dancing, going to a concert
Backstory: First taking root in Santa Cruz, California in the ’60s, Haze is a classic sativa that has parented many popular strains—pretty much anything with “haze” in its name. It’s known for its high energy and creative effects.
Why we love it: Smoking Haze is like toking a little piece of cannabis history. We give Haze bonus points for its spicy citrus flavor profile and energizing effects that come from a true sativa.
Skunk 1
Through an intricate breeding process spanning several generations, this genetic cornerstone of countless hybrids has influenced cannabis on a global scale.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Acapulco Gold, Afghani, Colombian Gold
Activities: Drawing, painting, listening to music
Backstory:Skunk 1 (or Skunk #1) is a hybrid that has influenced cannabis on a global scale since the late 1970s with its unmistakeable pungent blend of sour skunkiness and subtle earthy notes.
Why we love it: Skunk 1 is a cornerstone of countless hybrids, and its pungent, skunky smell and heavy-hitting effects continue to make it a classic.
Chocolope
DNA Genetics developed Chocolope to pay homage to the Chocolate strains of the 1980s.
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Chocolate Thai, Cannalope Haze
Activities: Drawing, painting, listening to music, chilling on the couch
Backstory: Developed as an homage to the Chocolate strains of the 1980s, Chocolope is a hefty sativa with earthy, sweet coffee flavors and dreamy, cerebral effects.
Why we love it: Relaxed, cuddly, and grin-inducing, this strain is adored by many and also happens to make a damn good concentrate.
Vanilla Frosting
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: Humboldt Gelato, Humboldt Frost OG
Activity: Listening to music, crafting
Backstory: As its name suggests, Vanilla Frosting has a thick layer of trichomes, making it look like it’s covered in frosting. With Gelato in its roots, this cake strain has a creamy and smooth taste with hints of vanilla.
Why we love it: This newer cake strain builds off of Gelato’s legacy with a sweet flavor and potency that will take you to outer space.
Biscotti
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Gelato 25, Florida OG
Activities: Art projects, chilling on the couch
Backstory: One of the many descendants of Gelato, Biscotti stands out as a cerebral strain with a sweet cookie flavor and notes of diesel. Somewhat of a newer strain, it’s got attractive, potent buds with tinges of purple.
Why we love it: Known as a creeper, this strain’s great for relaxing or doing an art project.
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Party and mingle with these sociable strains.
Runtz
Short and squat, and sweet like candy, Runtz was Leafly’s Strain of the year in 2020.
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Gelato, Zkittlez
Activity: Smoking with your friends, conversations
Backstory: Named after the sugary sweet candy, don’t let Runtz’s small buds fool you—this smooth, welcoming strain has a creamy taste and ranges in color from rich purple to light green. With easy, long-lasting effects and sugary smells right out of the bag, Runtz has already been crossed to make White Runtz and Pink Runtz, and more are likely to come.
Why we love it: Combining berry and cookie flavors, it’s no wonder this dessert strain was Leafly’s Strain of the year in 2020.
White Widow
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
One of the most famous strains worldwide is White Widow, a hybrid first bred in the Netherlands.
Parent strains:South American, South Indian Indica
Activities: Hanging out with friends, drawing, painting
Backstory: One of the most famous strains worldwide, White Widow is a hybrid first bred in the Netherlands in the ’90s by Green House Seeds. In the years since its birth, White Widow has graced every Dutch coffeeshop menu.
Known for a layer of trichomes so thick it looks white, White Widow boasts a powerful burst of euphoria and energy, great for stimulating conversation and creativity.
Why we love it: Simply put, it’s a potent and earthy resin queen.
Cherry Pie
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Granddaddy Purple, Durban Poison
Activities: Listening to music, hanging with friends
Backstory: With an illustrious lineage of GDP and Durban, Cherry Pie has aromas of sweet and sour cherry pie, and buds that are dense, with orange hairs and a touch of purple. Its effects come on in minutes and stick around for hours.
Why we love it: This delicious strain is sweet and has long-lasting effects, perfect for a great joint.
AK-47
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: South American, Mexican, Thai, Afghani
Activities: Conversation, meditation
Backstory: Somewhat contradictory, AK-47 will get you relaxed and mellow while staying sociable. Its unique scent is sour and earthy with sweet floral notes.
Why we love it: This hybrid has rich flavors and great mood-brightening effects.
Candyland
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Platinum Cookies, Granddaddy Purple
Activities: Conversation, doing art, painting, writing
Backstory: Candyland is a classic sativa strain that continues to impress cannabis connoisseurs of all levels. Known for its effects, this strain sparkles with thick trichomes and an amazing contrast of purple, green, and fire orange hairs.
Why we love it: We love Candyland for its happy effects, but we love it even more because of its impressive buds. It’s undoubtedly an Instagram-worthy strain you can’t resist.
Fruity Pebbles
Strain type: Hybrid
FPOG is a fruity uplifter that actually tastes like breakfast cereal.
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Green Ribbon, Granddaddy Purple, Tahoe Alien
Activities: Laughing with your friends, hiking in nature, wake ‘n’ bake
Backstory:Fruity Pebbles (aka FPOG or Fruity Pebbles OG) is a sweet-tasting hybrid that mixes great genetics to create a tropical, berry flavor reminiscent of the cereal it’s named for. The euphoric effects will keep you happy when you’re stressed.
Why we love it: It’s a mellow, uplifting hybrid whose aroma of fruity breakfast cereal is so distinctive, you have to try it to believe it.
Lava Cake
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains: Thin Mint GSC, Grape Pie
Activities: Hanging with friends, eliminating the Sunday scaries
Backstory: Lava Cake will give you an initial uplift that fades quickly into ease and bliss. Caryophyllene lovers will want to track this one down if they can handle its high THC content while they chill.
Why we love it: Sometimes you just need a little reassurance that everything is going to be all right, and Lava Cake can help you forget all your woes to be your best self.
Banana Kush
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Ghost OG, Skunk Haze
Activities: Conversations, hanging with friends
Backstory: With lots of limonene, Banana Kush provides a good mix of mellow energy and euphoria. Its effects come on slowly, so be patient so you don’t smoke too much and get overwhelmed.
Why we love it: Banana Kush is an aromatic sensation: When you bust open the jar, your nose fills up with sweet, fruity, tropical smells, and everything you’d expect from a banana strain. Come for the flavors, stay for the euphoric relaxation.
Triangle Kush
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: Unknown (likely OG Kush)
Activities: Talking with friends, chilling out
Backstory: A nod to three major weed growing regions in Florida, Triangle Kush is thought to have come from an OG Kush from the Sunshine State. It’s known for making smokers relaxed, creative, and chatty.
Why we love it: Biting and gassy, TK can also have soft vanilla notes. Growers love it, and it’s got THC levels that can sedate a wild boar.
Gelonade
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: data not available
Parent strains:Gelato 41, Lemon Tree
Activity: Going to a party, conversations
Backstory: A citrusy and vanilla treat, Gelonade’s tingly and uplifting effects are great for laughing with friends and turning into a social butterfly.
Why we love it: Its mellow head high is great for those who love heavy couch lockers and are looking to explore something with only a little bit of energy.
ACDC
Strain type: CBD-dominant
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Cannatonic
Activities: Chilling on the couch, conversations
Backstory: One of the few CBD-dominant strains on our list, ACDC has a CBD:THC ratio of 20:1 and almost no psychoactive effects. It’s great for pain relief and chatting with your friends.
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a chill day and chill conversations, this high-CBD strain has almost no THC to cloud your mind.
Watermelon Zkittlez
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Limonene
Parent strains:Zkittlez, Watermelon
Activities: Hanging with friends, conversation
Backstory: Sweet, giggly Watermelon Zkittlez is a crowd-pleaser, combining two wildly popular parents. This potent strain is great for relaxing with friends and rolling around on the floor laughing.
Why we love it: Tasty and euphoric, this one’s great for a small gathering of close friends.
Best weed strains for feeling focused
Finish the task at hand with these focusing strains.
Pennywise
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains:Harlequin, Jack the Ripper
Activities: Chilling on the couch, finishing a task
Backstory: High in CBD, Pennywise is great for bringing a mental clarity to relax, or sit down and finish a task. It’s one of the more popular CBD strains, with notes of coffee and pepper, and undertones of lemon.
Why we love it: Don’t be fooled by its name, which nods to Stephen King’s It—this relaxing strain is full of calming CBD.
SFV OG
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strain:OG Kush
Activities: Doing work, going on a hike, drawing, painting
Backstory: Short for “San Fernando Valley OG,” SFV OG is a sativa-dominant hybrid with a heavenly piney and lemony aroma. It’s got great effects perfect for keeping focus and is best when consumed in a flower friendly vaporizer.
Why we love it: Its pungent, piney flavor and relaxing body effects make this a memorable OG cross.
Zookies
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strains:Animal Cookies, Original Glue
Activities: Playing video games, doing work
Backstory: The level-headed Zookies is as delicious as it is potent, with a flavor of sweet nutty cookies and a hint of diesel. It’s great for a strong head high that will get you moving.
Why we love it: With a unique Cookies and diesel taste, this potent strain’s better for fun hobbies rather than busy work.
Papaya
The sweet, fruity flavor of Papaya will help take your mind to a tropical island getaway.
Strain type: Indica
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strain: Ice
Activities: Getting chores done, playing outside
Backstory: Papaya has a sweet scent with undertones of spice, the perfect companion to a charcuterie plate full of fruits and savory flavors. It also brings a mental calmness great for productivity.
Why we love it: Chill, fruity strains like Papaya will help take your mind to a tropical island getaway.
Guava
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Caryophyllene
Parent strain:Gelato
Activities: Netflix and chilling
Backstory: After Cookie strain Gelato became popular, variants came along including Mochi and Guava. Guava offers a more tropical, sweet variety of bestseller Gelato and is especially terpy when grown outdoors.
Why we love it: Cannabis genes from all around the world are packed into Gelato, and they recombine in the epic, surprising tropical flavors of Guava.
Bubble Gum
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Parent strains: Unknown, likely Indiana Bubble Gum
Activities: Painting, drawing
Backstory: An indica-dominant hybrid that likely originated in Indiana in the mid-’90s, Bubble Gum is best enjoyed one hit at a time so you can fully enjoy the impact of each sweet, floral hit.
Why we love it: These colorful buds don’t just help with creativity; Bubble gum can help with headaches and pain relief, too.
Lemonnade
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains: Lemon OG, Gorilla Haze
Activities: Great for a morning wake and bake before getting work done
Backstory: Get ready for a bright lemon flavor profile with light floral notes in Lemonnade. Also called “The Original Lemonnade,” this strain is potent, so new smokers should take it easy.
Why we love it: Perfect for a classic wake and bake session, Lemonnade could easily replace your morning coffee with a mental clarity that’ll ease you through the day.
Harlequin
Strain type: CBD-dominant
Dominant terpene: Myrcene
Harlequin is a well-known CBD strain with the ability to relax and relieve without sedation or intoxication.
Parent strains:Colombian Gold, Thai, Swiss Sativa
Activities: Doing work, listening to music, drawing, painting
Backstory:Harlequin is another one of the few CBD strains on our list and usually expresses a CBD:THC ratio of 5:2. Flavors can include earthy musk and sweet mango, but without a doubt, what draws crowds to Harlequin is its ability to relax and relieve without sedation or intoxication.
Why we love it: Harlequin is an amazing CBD-rich strain that can help you stay focused and manage pain without intoxication.
Black Jack
Strain type: Hybrid
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains:Black Domina, Jack Herer
Activities: Playing video games, doing work
Backstory: The energetic effects of Jack Herer are checked by Black Domina in Black Jack. With light green nugs from Jack and a heavy dusting of trichomes from Domina, Black Jack’s an old school strain that’s here to stay.
Why we love it: Never out of style, Black Jack provides focus and a clear-headed mood lift with a full-bodied sweetness that’s versatile for most days and afternoons.
Ghost Train Haze
Strain type: Sativa
Dominant terpene: Terpinolene
Parent strains:Ghost OG, Neville’s Wreck
Activities: Finishing a task, doing an art project
Backstory:Ghost Train Haze is a sativa descended from the legendary Neville’s Haze, an old school strain from the Netherlands. Crossed with a Kush and covered in trichomes, this potent strain is great for concentration and creativity.
Why we love it: Dominant in rare terpinolene, Ghost Train Haze offers a unique blend of sour, citrus, and floral tastes with a potent euphoria.
FAQ about Leafly’s 100 best weed strains
What is the best strain ever?
Weed strain preference is a subjective experience; everyone has different tastes, and every body will interact differently with the chemical profile of a strain. We recommend consumers start with an effect, or how they want a strain to make them feel, when looking for a new strain.
What’s the most popular strain of weed?
Based on sales and search data from Leafly, Gorilla Glue, or GG4 is currently the most popular strain, and has been for a few years. For years before it was Blue Dream.
What strains are most popular?
Behind Gorilla Glue, Cookies crosses reign supreme: Runtz, Wedding Cake, Gelato, Ice Cream Cake, and GSC itself are right behind. Other top strains include Purple Punch, OG Kush, and Sour Diesel.
What are the top 10 exotic strains?
Weed strains with high THC include:
- Kush Mints
- GMO Cookies
- OGKB
- Motorbreath
- Apple Fritter
- Gelato
- Gushers
- Animal Mints
- Cereal Milk
- Han Solo Burger
What are the best top shelf strains?
“Top shelf” just means high-quality weed, and any strain can be grown for quality. Typically, tried-and-true popular strains that have been grown for a long time can be found as top shelf weed, for example, the most popular weed strains found above.
Find the best marijuana strains
Want to learn more about weed strains? Explore thousands of marijuana strains on Leafly.
This article was originally published on August 8, 2015. It was most recently updated on August 23, 2022.
