When it comes to choosing flower, there’s no single right answer. Some people shop by terpene profile, others by THC percentage, and some just by which buds look the most appealing in the jar. All of that is perfectly valid — cannabis is personal. That said, certain strains have risen above the rest to become true icons of the culture, name-dropped in music, referenced in film, and sought after by generations of enthusiasts. Here’s a rundown of the most celebrated strains in cannabis history, and why each one has earned its reputation.
OG Kush
If there’s one strain that’s practically synonymous with quality cannabis, it’s OG Kush. Few strains have been name-dropped in as many songs or carried as much weight in cannabis culture, and the reputation is well-earned. OG Kush is rich in caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene terpenes, giving it a complex aroma that blends sweet citrus with earthy, fuel-like undertones. Classified as a hybrid, it delivers a balanced experience — calming without being sedating, and uplifting without tipping into anxiety. It’s also the genetic backbone behind some of the most popular strains on the market today, including Pink Kush, Girl Scout Cookies, and Wedding Cake. If you’ve never tried it, it belongs on your list. Browse The Purple Leaf’s flower selection to see what kush strains are currently in stock.
Granddaddy Purple (GDP)
Granddaddy Purple — or GDP — is the undisputed King of Purple cannabis. Created by breeder Ken Estes in the San Francisco Bay Area, GDP is a cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud, two intensely popular strains from the 1980s. The result is a deeply coloured, fruit-forward indica with a heavy, relaxing effect that’s kept it a fan favourite for decades. Its grape and berry aroma is instantly recognizable, and its deep purple hues make it one of the most visually striking strains you’ll find. If you’re in the mood to wind down and stay in, GDP is a classic choice.
Blue Dream
Blue Dream might be the most universally beloved cannabis strain ever produced. A cross between Blueberry and Haze, it blends the sweet, fruity flavour of its Blueberry parent with the cerebral lift of its Haze genetics, landing firmly in sativa-leaning hybrid territory. The result is a feel-good, easygoing experience that works well for both newer consumers and longtime enthusiasts — smooth enough to enjoy any time of day without feeling overwhelmed. Its consistent quality and crowd-pleasing character have kept it near the top of bestseller lists for years.
Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express has one of the more unusual origin stories in cannabis: the strain became famous before it even existed, thanks to the 2008 stoner comedy of the same name. The film portrayed it as a rare, extraordinary cultivar — and when demand followed, growers responded by actually creating it. The strain lives up to the legend. It’s bright and tropical, with citrus and pineapple flavours up front and a skunky, earthy finish on the exhale. A great pick for anyone who wants something flavourful and uplifting. The Purple Leaf carries a rotating selection of popular strains — worth checking in to see what’s available.
Green Crack (Green Cush)
Green Crack — sometimes sold as Green Cush under its more approachable name — is a sativa known for its energizing, cerebral effects. It’s a popular choice for daytime use precisely because it gets the mind moving without weighing the body down. The buds are visually striking too: bright green with vivid orange pistils throughout, making it as appealing to look at as it is to smoke. If you’re looking for a strain to pair with a creative project, a hike, or a productive afternoon, Green Crack is worth trying.
Wedding Cake
Don’t let the sweet name fool you — Wedding Cake (also known as Pink Cookies) is one of the heaviest hitters in the modern cannabis lineup. With THC levels that routinely land around 24% or higher, this is a strain built for experienced consumers who know what they’re working with. Its flavour profile is rich and dessert-like, with sugary vanilla notes and a subtle citrus tang. It’s an indica-leaning hybrid, so the experience tends toward deep relaxation and full-body calm. A perfect end-of-day strain for those who want something potent and flavourful.
Finding Your Favourite
The strains above have earned their legendary status for a reason — but the best way to figure out which one is right for you is to try them. Everyone’s ECS responds differently, and what works perfectly for one person might not be the ideal fit for another. The team at The Purple Leaf is always happy to help you navigate the options and find a strain that matches what you’re looking for. Stop by or browse online to see what’s currently in stock.