The many flavors of cannabis are a connoisseur’s dream, but the bevy of options can also be a nightmare for newcomers. Those seeking a hybrid strain with a calming, tingly sensation need look no further than the Purple Ice strain.
Purple Ice strain history
The origins of this variety are up for debate, which is complicated by the fact that there is also a strain called Purple Ice Water. Purple Ice Water was created by Bloom Seed Co., but sources vary on the actual creator of Purple Ice. One states that the slight sativa strain was created by a mystery grower named “New420Guy” while others remark that the original breeder remains unknown.
The effects are just as elusive. Both are widely listed online as almost 50/50 sativa dominant hybrids, with some reviews stating the strain is as much as 80 percent sativa. The Saints Purple Ice I tried for this review was listed as an indica-dominant hybrid on the dispensary menu with effects to match.
After speaking with the team at Saints, GreenState learned that this specific flower is an in-house variety. The brand pheno hunted Purple Punch from Symbiotic Genetics and crossed it with itself to craft their Purple Ice.
Some descriptions from fellow strain reviewers highlight the versatility of the strain, stating that, though it features a slight bout of euphoric creativity it can also elicit sleep-inducing relaxation. Let’s dive into my experience with Purple Ice grown in the regulated Washington market.
The look, smell, and effects
On the nose, the Purple Ice strain is a bounty of fruit. It gives the eyes a treat as well with purpled-out prize buds. Its effects offer a bit of a “choose your own adventure” vibe sitting at an almost equal hybrid.
This cannabis strain features dense, perfectly pine-tree-shaped nugs that carry a slightly purple hue. Each nug is blanketed in sparkling, milky white trichomes. The aromatics are rich with berries and hints of grape and wet earth. After burning, the flavor retains fruity tinges while leaning into its earthiness.
Purple Ice from Saints is definitely heady at first and has THC levels ranging from 18 to 21 percent. Those prone to anxiety may knocked off-kilter as the strain kicks in, but managing anxious thoughts leads to a mellow experience that I found quite enjoyable.
After inhaling the tasty smoke, the effects start in the head before traveling to the rest of your body. The experience settles after the come-up, creating a calming, tingly sensation that pulsates from the heart to the fingers. Chronic pain patients often flock to strains like Purple Ice. A buzzing body high that allows a patient to retain a present mind is a slam dunk. The same qualities make it a common choice for those working with the classic anxiety depression combo.
Cold, hard, truth on the Purple Ice strain
Purple Ice is super nice, but remember that with mysterious genetics, varieties will vary from brand to brand. Not to mention, the valued hybrid strain isn’t easy to find in all U.S. markets. The strain is mostly found on the West Coast, but as more growers get in the game, the variety could gain more prominence.
This sativa-dominant hybrid is versatile, offering consumers a taste of the ups and downs of cannabis effects. The forgiving high is preceded by a soil and berry scent and a mellow taste, making it a great strain for new users. Anyone looking to skate on Purple Ice can expect to get in the driver’s seat for a memorable experience.
Editor’s Note: The header image is Purple Ice grown by Saints and photographed by Oleg Zharsky.