When one thinks of a cannabis plant, the image of a green plant with orange pistils comes to mind. However, the versatility of this plant species is astonishing, ranging from blue or purple to reddish and pinkish tones. All cannabis plants provide multiple benefits for humans, proving useful in different areas. Among this diversity, the type that stands out the most is red weed.
Everything you need to know about red weed
It is the set of cannabis strains that, during their development, display beautiful reddish colours on the leaves and flowers. Some phenotypes can even show hints of blue, purple, or even pink; growing them is quite a sight. In fact, anthocyanins are responsible for this special colour, a water-soluble flavonoid pigment in the roots, leaves, and fruit. Concerning green plants, it is chlorophyll that provides the colour.
Anthocyanins are present in numerous plants, such as aubergines and blueberries. This flavonoid can be divided into various anthocyanins, giving each one a different tone. In addition, anthocyanosides are particularly sensitive to changes in pH, which define colours. Find a list of anthocyanins below:
- Malvidins: compound responsible for providing purple tones in acidic soils and blue in alkaline soils.
- Delphinidins: characterised by their blue colour, but in acidic soils, the plants tend to turn red.
- Pelargonidin: an orange pigment that varies according to pH and can be purple, red, or blue.
- Cyanine: to obtain purple varieties, if the pH level is below 3, the plant becomes red; on the other hand, if the pH exceeds 11, it will turn blue.

What is the origin of red weed?
This type of cannabis originated when traditional strains had to adapt to the cold, resulting in strains with specific characteristics. Nowadays, it is possible to find different red cannabis genetics in seed banks.
Red cannabis strains characteristics:
Beyond its beautiful red colour, it offers unique properties such as:
- It has a medium-high stature.
- It is a very delicate plant, sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause fungus problems in the crop. In addition, it tends to prefer cooler temperatures.
- Their productivity is excellent, generating dense buds, so it is advisable to stake the branches and a thick layer of resin too.
Aromas and flavours
They stand out for their sweet and floral aromas and flavours with a slightly fruity touch, pleasant to the smell and taste, which has emerged as a favourite among consumers.
Red weed effects
Today, you can find genetics with high levels of THC and CBD. In general, the effects of these genetics offer a powerful psychoactive effect, which manifests itself in waves of euphoria and great energising potential. It can also stimulate and sensitise the senses, thus improving perception.
Thanks to its indica percentage, it causes physical relaxation with sedative and narcotic qualities. In addition to all this, there are the properties of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants and prevent certain cardiovascular diseases.
The best red weed strains
Many seed banks sell red strains; here are a few:
Red Hot Cookies

Red Hot Cookies by Sweet Seeds is one of the most popular strains because of its flavours and incredible red hues. It has a high potency due to its high THC content. Its yields are covered with resin that has a space-filling aroma of sweet, citrus, and fruity nuances.
Harvests can reach 500 grams per square meter indoors and 400 outdoors in just 60 days of flowering.
Grand Daddy Purple

Grand Daddy Purple from GB Strains provides intense relaxation while the palate delights in its characteristic grape and blueberry flavours. It is highly resistant to pests and fungi. Its purple flowers are covered with a dense layer of resin full of aroma.
In September and October, you can harvest yields of up to 550 grams per plant outdoors or 450 grams indoors.
Auto Kritikal Red

Most of the flowers produced by Auto Kritikal Red from Mr. Hide Seeds have reddish tones that make it a variety that fills the growing area with colour. In just 8 weeks since germination, this strain develops a large central bud, surrounded by other dense flowers with a large amount of resin.
It can withstand both pests and various growth defects. Like other red cannabis strains, it has fruity flavours and aromas, as well as relaxing effects.
Violeta Fem

This fast-flowering indica has a medium-high yield and sticks out due to its flowers’ purple tones that blend with the dark green tones of the leaves. Indoor Violeta Fem by Ace Seeds will be ready to harvest after 8-9 weeks.
Outdoors, its yields can be harvested between September and October, giving a deep cerebral relaxation and a berry aroma.
Red cannabis is one of the most outstanding for its colours and aromas. Nowadays, a wide variety of this type of cannabis can be found thanks to seed bank breeders’ work.



