A Friendly Guide to the Colors of Cannabis
If you’ve ever cracked open a fresh jar of flower and seen deep purples, fiery oranges, or even hints of pink and blue — you’re not hallucinating (yet). Cannabis comes in more colors than just green. And no, colorful weed doesn’t automatically mean it’s better or stronger… but it can tell you a few interesting things.
In this post, we’ll break down what causes different cannabis colors, which strains tend to bring the rainbow, and how to grow them yourself. Let’s go beyond the bud and appreciate the beauty in the plant.
First, What Makes Weed Green?
Most cannabis looks green because of chlorophyll — the same pigment that gives trees and grass their color. It’s essential for photosynthesis, the process plants use to convert sunlight into energy.
As your cannabis matures, chlorophyll levels drop and other pigments can start to shine through — especially if your genetics and growing conditions encourage it.
So What Makes Weed Purple, Red, or Blue?
The short answer: anthocyanins.
These are naturally occurring compounds (a type of flavonoid) that can produce shades of:
- Purple
- Red
- Blue
- Even black
Anthocyanins aren’t unique to cannabis — they’re also found in blueberries, eggplant, and red cabbage. In weed, they typically become more visible as chlorophyll fades late in the flowering cycle.
Do These Colors Affect Potency or Effects?
Not directly. Color is mostly a result of genetics and environmental factors — it doesn’t automatically mean your bud has more THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids.
That said, some colorful strains are known for specific terpene profiles, which can influence how the high feels. For example, many purple strains lean toward a more relaxing, body-heavy effect — but that’s because of their terpenes, not the color alone.
How to Grow Colorful Cannabis
Want to bring some visual firepower to your next grow? Here’s what matters:
1. Start with the Right Genetics
Some strains are just more colorful by nature. Look for strains that are known for their pigmentation, like:
- Granddaddy Purple
- Purple Haze
- Blueberry
- Shark Shock (a Mr. Nice favorite for its beautiful finish and balanced effects)
At Mr. Nice, we breed with intention — and yes, we have strains that bring the color and the quality.
2. Temperature Plays a Role
Cooler nighttime temps (especially in late flower) can help anthocyanins shine. If you drop your night temps by 10–15°F compared to daytime, you might notice more color in your buds.
⚠️ But don’t overdo it. Too much cold can shock your plants or hurt yields. Be gentle.
3. pH and Nutrients Matter
Extreme pH swings or phosphorus-heavy feeds won’t “force” color, despite what some growers might say. Focus on healthy, balanced soil or hydro setups and let the genetics do the talking.
Are Purple Buds More Desirable?
They can be. Some people love the exotic look and associate darker buds with relaxing effects. Others stick with classic green. Either way, the most important thing is how it was grown and how it smells, tastes, and feels — not just the color.
But let’s be real: purple weed does look badass on the shelf.
Final Word from Mr. Nice
Cannabis isn’t just about getting high. It’s about connection — to the plant, to the process, and to the story behind every strain. Colorful buds are one small part of that story.
They remind us that cannabis is more than a commodity. It’s a living thing. A plant with personality, shaped by nature and nurture alike.
So whether you’re growing for yourself or just curious about what’s in your grinder, take a moment to appreciate the color — and everything it represents.