While it may not have the wide distribution of its namesake soda, Grape Crush certainly deserves to. Sometimes spelled Grape Krush, this indica-dominant hybrid is derived from fruity staple Blueberry and carries all of its predecessor’s flavor and potency. Grape Crush was created by the infamous DJ Short, who has also given us Vaniluna and Flo. Those lucky enough to try this eye-catching strain can count on smooth, sedative effects that are said to last longer than average. Grape Crush’s THC levels have been charted at between 10% and 19%

It’s hard to deny the visual appeal of Grape Crush’s vivid flowers. They are generally medium in size and hold an elongated, almost cylindrical shape. These spindly flowers have a surprisingly sativa-like bud structure, with their fluffy leaves clinging loosely to their central stems. The leaves themselves are this strain’s tour de force -- more often than not, they are a veritable camouflage pattern of green and dark purple. The latter hues are due to pigments called anthocyanins in the strain’s genetics which can trigger vivid colors when stimulated by cold weather during the growing process. Finally, snowy white trichomes cap off these impressive flowers, accounting for their psychoactivity and making them very sticky to the touch.

Unsurprisingly perhaps, Grape Crush’s predominant aroma is of juicy, slightly sour grapes. There’s also a pervasive sweetness that’s so strong as to border on smelling rotten or fermented. Grinding up these distinctive buds releases a hashy and spicy odor that betrays this bud’s Kush roots. Grape Crush burns with a smooth and agreeable smoke when combusted in a pipe or a joint. This smoke tastes herbal and almost tea-like on the exhale. Those toking in public may want to take some precautions, as Grape Crush can be particularly pungent.

Grape Crush’s high builds slowly and make take as many as 15 minutes after users have savored its fruity smoke before revealing its effects. At first, the eyes and temples may begin to tingle and the face flushes slightly. There is often an increased weighty feeling in the limbs and eyelids; this is especially noticeable if users have been sitting down and then attempt to stand up or move. Grape Crush’s high isn’t entirely sleepy and physical -- there are discernible mental effects, ranging from a preoccupation with certain ideas and concepts to a trippy distortion in visual or auditory perception. For the most part, though, Grape Crush will not be helpful in focusing the mind on a mountain of task-based analytical work. Instead, enjoy this fruity bud as a way to daydream, brainstorm, and pore over the mysteries of life. As time passes, waves of relaxation roll gently down from the neck and out through the core and limbs. In this sense, Grape Crush provides a great excuse for kicking back and starting a binge-watching session. Best savored after a long day or week of work, this strain can be nice for some introspective solo time as well as for chummy, giggly hang sessions with like-minded friends. When boosting their dosage, smokers should plan on being pinned to the couch for the foreseeable future. Because of its taper down in energy, this is one strain that’s best enjoyed during the early evening or nighttime.

Grape Crush can also have several uses for medical cannabis patients. The strain’s mellow, numbing properties can temporarily soothe the troubling symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. It may also be effective as a painkiller, for both deep-seated, chronic pain, and everyday irritations like headaches and indigestion. In the right set and setting, Grape Crush can even counteract stubborn cases of insomnia, lulling smokers to sleep. Because it is more dreamy and dopey than cerebral, Grape Crush is a good option for those who are prone to panic or paranoia or who have a low THC tolerance.

Fortunately for home growers, seeds of Grape Crush are available for sale online. It can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The short and bushy plants are easily accommodated in limited indoor spaces. Those looking to bring out this bud’s striking purple potential should briefly expose their crops to nighttime temperatures at least 10 degrees below average. Grape Crush flowers within 8 to 9 weeks when grown indoors and is ready for harvest in late October when grown outdoors.

An indica with serious bag appeal, be prepared to share Grape Crush if you’re consuming it in public. This strain is a must-try, if only for its unique coloring.