There’s no understating the popularity of Runtz. Flipping the dessert strain scene from dough to candy, this sugar-coated descendant of Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) set the weed world on fire when it debuted a few years ago. The Pink Runtz strain variety is a star on its own, offering slightly buzzier effects than its famed parent.
Despite copycat genetics to the original Runtz, Pink Runtz is definitely unique. With extra sweet and fruity flavors and a delightful head high, the cannabis strain is a sugar rush and then some.
But what sets this variety apart from its predecessor? It’s time to dive deep into the candy jar to discover the tasty truth about the Pink Runtz strain.
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Breaking down the Pink Runtz strain family tree
Just like the first Runtz strain, Pink Runtz is a cross between The Original Z (formerly called Zkittlez) and Gelato. Both parents are considered hybrid strains, but if examining the indica and sativa leanings, they tend to lean toward the indica side.
The Original Z itself is a mash-up of Grape Ape and Grapefruit. Its ancestors include legendary varieties such as Cinderella 99, Skunk, Afghani, and Mendocino Purps. The Original Z is extremely popular thanks to its rainbow of tropical flavors, taking first place in the 2016 Emerald Cup.
Gelato is a descendant of GSC. Its parents are Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GSC; the former is a cross of GSC and Pink Panties, while the latter is a phenotype of its Cookies namesake.
The word phenotype is key when it comes to the Pink Runtz strain. After all, if it has the same lineage as Runtz, how can it be any different?
The answer is how the Pink Runtz variant expresses when grown from seed. Just like multiple children from the same parents have their own unique physical attributes, so do cannabis strains.
Two seeds from the same genetics can turn out wildly different. This is why breeders will do “pheno hunts,” growing several seeds at once to determine which is the favorite. The prize pick is cloned, ensuring consistency time and time again.
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Terps and THC of the Pink Runtz strain
The fruity aroma and candy-like taste are unmistakable in this weed variety. Opening a bag or jar of Pink Runtz brings you back to Halloween night when the senses were driven by your trick-or-treat stash.
The primary terpenes driving the distinct smell and flavor profile of Pink Runtz are limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene. The combination is a tantalizing mix of citrus, sugar, and strawberry that’s enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.
When it comes to THC content, Pink Runtz is definitely a heavy hitter. The plant typically produces a minimum of 25 percent THC, but those looking to buy the Pink Runtz strain may even see upwards of 36 percent in some varieties.
Riding the Pink Runtz rainbow road
Smoking a bowl or joint of Pink Runtz is a lot like overloading on sweetie treaties: you get an initial rush of euphoria followed by a sleepy crash that’ll sink you deep into your seat.
The blend of pleasant yet relaxing effects makes Pink Runtz perfect for a late-in-the-day sesh. The uplifting nature means you don’t want it too close to bed, but the high THC levels could spell disaster if you have too much to do.
Considering Pink Runtz is a hybrid strain, it may feel heady for some and sedating for others. Folks with chronic pain and stress may enjoy the easygoing buzz that puts you in the clouds, but given the potency level, it could spell paranoia for others. Take this strain one hit at a time, especially if you have a lower tolerance.
Growing Pink Runtz is a rare treat
Interest in growing weed at home continues to gain steam, but not all strains are created equal. Given the popularity of Pink Runtz, it’s natural that folks may want to give it a shot in their garden.
However, Pink Runtz seeds may be hard to come by. It tends to have slightly lower yields than other varieties and can be finicky if conditions aren’t just right. However, in warm, semi-dry environments, Pink Runtz plants flower within seven to nine weeks and may yield up to a pound if you’re lucky.
On the plant, Pink Runtz buds are dark green with flecks of purple throughout. The trichomes tend to be generous and frosty, making the strain a fantastic pick for people making their own cannabis extracts.
Strains like Pink Runtz
Given that Pink Runtz is a popular yet somewhat rare variety, you may find yourself empty-handed when searching for it at the local dispensary. Fortunately, there are some similar strains you may like instead:
- Oreoz
- Ice Cream Cake
- Rainbow Runtz
- Tangie
- Airheads
- Lava Cake
- Cherry Pie
Pink Runtz strain: a sugar high like no other
Candy strains are having a profound moment, and the 2020s may be the decade of Z. An irresistibly sweet flavor made the Pink Runtz strain an instant hit—after a decade of dough, it’s clear the people were ready for a saccharine switch.
But tread lightly with this sugar rush strain, as it may be a bit much for the infrequent smokers. After all, too many treats can lead to trouble, and this potent cannabis variety isn’t much different.
