A West Coast classic worthy of the Indica Hall of Fame.
Strain: Granddaddy Purple
Type: Indica Dominant
Notes: Berry, Grape, Plum
Mood: Relaxed, Creative, Sleepy
Main Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene
Key Takeaways:
- The Granddaddy Purple strain was created in San Francisco in 2003 by professional breeder Ken Estes.
- Known for having deep purple hues, a berry-grape aroma, and soothing indica effects
- Granddaddy Purple terpenes include canphene, pinene, and limonene, among several others
- Available at HerbNJoy Hanford, Chula Vista, and Walnut Creek (delivery only)
The Origins of Granddaddy Purple Weed
Granddaddy Purple (aka Grand Daddy Purps or GDP) is one of the most popular Indica strains on the West Coast and is perhaps the best known purple cannabis strain in the United States. It’s also a true California cannabis icon.
It was first propagated in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2003 by breeder Ken Estes, who sought to create the ultimate Indica hybrid by merging two strains with fantastic genetics—Purple Urkle and Big Bud. It’s been a long road, and the Granddaddy Purple strain has won many awards since its inception, including first place in the category of Best U.S. Indica at the Denver High Times Cannabis Cup in 2015.
A true California classic, GDP inherits the overgrown, dense buds of Big Bud and its dark hues from Purple Urkle. Bright orange hairs and frosted white trichomes cover compact green and purple nugs, making it an especially Instagram-worthy flower.
Is Granddaddy Purple Indica or Sativa?
This strain is a classic indica-dominant hybrid, typically around 70% indica and 30% sativa, although this can vary a bit from grower to grower. That means the effects of the Granddaddy Purple strain lean more toward indica’s signature effects. Think body relaxation, sedation, and stress relief, while still offering a light cerebral lift.
People turn to GDP when they want a calming strain that’s ideal for evening use, especially for easing worries, soothing aches, and preparing them for restful sleep.
The Aroma and Flavors of Granddaddy Purple Weed
Indeed, there is something very special about the sight of purple buds, as well as their entourage of flavors and smells. A complex grape and berry aroma echoes its taste. Fans of this strain most consistently report notes of berries, grapes, plum, and fruit punch. The Granddaddy Purple strain offers a smooth, thick, and heavy smoke that carries its berry notes through each exhale.
Whether smoking GDP flower, vaping this California classic, or using concentrates, you should notice a fruit-forward profile with a slight hint of creaminess and earthy undertones from its pinene and camphene terpenes.
Granddaddy Purple Strain Effects and What to Expect
Despite its average of sub-20% THC levels, Granddaddy Purple is known to pack an especially potent punch. Acclaimed for its ability to make you “melt into the couch,” Granddaddy Purple strain effects may leave you happily contemplating life all night long. First, you’ll notice an opening cerebral lift due to its lower sativa percentages. That feeling quickly turns into full-body calmness.
Granddaddy Purple weed is a strain with effects that don’t take very long to kick in. Smoking or vaping this strain should lead to instantly noticeable effects that can increase slightly within the first 10-20 minutes. As with nearly any other strain, GDP edibles will take longer to kick in. Expect edibles to take 30 minutes to a few hours to go into effect.
Beginners should start slowly with the Granddaddy Purple strain, meaning only taking a few puffs of it or a low-dose edible to gauge tolerance levels.
Granddaddy Purple Terpenes in Detail
The dominant terpene is reported as myrcene which is also the most common terpene in cannabis, providing an earthy, floral quality. Granddaddy Purple weed also includes pinene (found largely in pine trees, sage brushes, and rosemary) and caryophyllene (associated with notes of cloves, pepper, and hops), adding a fresh earthiness and spice to the overall experience.
Other Granddaddy Purple terpenes include:
- Canphene: This pungent terpene has antioxidant and potential pain-relieving effects.
- Linalool: It features a floral and sweet taste and is sought after for its reported calming effects.
- Bisabolol: A mild sweetness paired with effects that may help reduce stress and pain.
- Geraniol: This terpene includes floral, rose-like taste notes with reported anti-inflammatory properties.
- Limonene: It offers a potent citrusy aroma and taste with potential anti-anxiety benefits.
How to Get the Most Out of Granddaddy Purple
As with any indica-dominant strain, consider the setting and your personal tolerance level. Many people enjoy winding down with GDP after a long day. It pairs well with listening to music, binging a new Netflix series, or meditating. This strain is especially well-suited for quiet nights spent solo or low-key hangouts with a few friends.
We recommend trying Granddaddy Purple in a form that you prefer, whether that’s flower, an infused pre-roll, or using GDP concentrate with another strain you favor.
Where to Find Granddaddy Purple in California
HerbNJoy offers top-shelf Granddaddy Purple in all of its following locations:
- Chula Vista
- Hanford
- Walnut Creek (delivery only)
If you’re in the Central Valley, our Hanford dispensary is the perfect spot to explore this legendary indica. Located near Fresno and Visalia, Hanford offers a wide selection of premium GDP flower, vapes, and concentrates.
For those in Southern California, the Chula Vista dispensary in San Diego County also carries this legendary strain. Customers in Northern California (Walnut Creek) can enjoy convenient Granddaddy Purple cannabis delivery.
Providing a consistently above-grade fade for nearly two decades, the Granddaddy Purple strain has earned its stripes and is 100% worthy of your well-curated weed collection.
Bring Home Granddaddy Purple Today
Ready to try it for yourself? Stop by HerbNJoy in Hanford or Chula Vista, California. We also offer cannabis delivery in Walnut Creek, CA. Experience our premium products and superior service, and you’ll see why HerbNJoy has been a Best of Weedmaps semi-finalist.
