🎉 $25 OFF your evaluation — Use code 25OFF at checkout
Purple/GDP Family
The Purple/GDP family encompasses cannabis varieties known for their distinctive purple coloration and grape-berry flavors. The purple hue comes from anthocyanin pigments that activate in cooler temperatures.
Defining Characteristics
- ✓Purple coloration (anthocyanins)
- ✓Grape, berry flavors
- ✓Sedating, body-heavy effects
- ✓Visually striking appearance
- ✓Often lower-moderate THC with strong effects
Overview
The Purple/GDP family encompasses cannabis varieties known for their distinctive purple coloration and grape-berry flavors. The purple hue comes from anthocyanin pigments that activate in cooler temperatures. These strains typically deliver sedating, body-heavy effects ideal for nighttime use. Granddaddy Purple (GDP), created by Ken Estes, became the most famous member of this family and a benchmark for purple strains worldwide.
History
Purple strains have been cultivated in Northern California's Mendocino County since at least the 1980s. Purple Urkle and Mendocino Purps emerged as distinctive phenotypes, eventually leading to Ken Estes' creation of Granddaddy Purple in 2003 by crossing Purple Urkle with Big Bud. GDP became one of the best-selling strains in California dispensaries and spawned a new generation of purple crosses.
Medical Applications
Insomnia
Strong sedation promotes sleep
Pain
Body-heavy effects address physical pain
Stress
Deep relaxation reduces tension
Muscle tension
Physical relaxation releases tight muscles
Appetite
Often stimulates hunger
Notable Strains
| Strain | Genetics | THC | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granddaddy Purple | Purple Urkle × Big Bud | 17-24% | Ken Estes creation |
| Grape Ape | Mendo Purps × Skunk × Afghani | 18-21% | Grape flavor |
| Purple Punch | Larry OG × GDP | 18-24% | Sweet, sedating |
| Slurricane | Do-Si-Dos × Purple Punch | 20-28% | Modern favorite |
| Grape Pie | Cherry Pie × Grape Stomper | 16-24% | Pie lineage |
| Purple Urkle | Unknown (Mendo Purps origin) | 18-21% | Foundation strain |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are some cannabis strains purple?
Purple coloration comes from anthocyanin pigments, the same compounds that color blueberries and red cabbage. These pigments activate when plants experience cooler temperatures during flowering, typically below 50°F at night. Genetics determine whether a strain can produce anthocyanins.
Does purple color affect effects?
The purple color itself doesn't directly affect effects—anthocyanins are flavonoids, not cannabinoids or terpenes. However, strains bred for purple coloration often share similar genetics (GDP, Purple Urkle) that happen to produce sedating, grape-flavored profiles.
What is Granddaddy Purple best for?
Granddaddy Purple is best known for promoting sleep and relaxation. Its combination of high myrcene, physical indica effects, and moderate THC makes it ideal for insomnia, pain relief, and evening stress relief.
Typical Terpene Profile
Cannabinoid Profile
Find Your Strain
Browse strains from the Purple/GDP Family or explore other genetic families.