Purple Maui is a sativa-dominant hybrid that’s as notable for its eye-catching flowers as it is for its potent head high. Created by breeder Happy Harvest, this strain’s genetics have been kept proprietary, but that hasn’t stopped the bud from winning both recreational and medical admirers. Purple Maui’s THC content has been measured at between 13% and 22%.

These flowers impress consumers right off the bat, with their medium size and solid, almost spherical formation. They have a markedly indica bud structure, characterized by densely-packed leaves curling inward toward their core. The leaves themselves are this hybrid’s real highlight, a mass of deep purple accented by some flashes of spring green; the purple hues are the product of pigments called anthocyanins, which become stimulated by cold weather during the growing process. A high concentration of crystalline white trichomes make these colorful buds even more striking.

When it’s properly cured, Purple Maui carries a tangy fruity aroma, with distinct notes of berry and grape. On closer inspection, this scent is undercut by a more earthy hint of fresh pine. Grinding up these attractive nugs, meanwhile, releases a rich, incense-like odor that hints at some descent from landrace indica Afghani. The strain gives off a smooth and ingestible smoke when combusted; on the exhale, this smoke tastes fruity and a bit floral.

Purple Maui begins flexing its psychoactive effects relatively quickly. Soon after toking, users are struck by a feeling of pressure around the eyes and lower forehead. This sensation may also be accompanied by some flushing in the cheeks or an increase in salivation. As they become more accustomed to these odd tics, smokers may detect a change in both their cognition and perception. Ideas may seem to have a new significance or intensity and may move more quickly than usual. Additionally, certain sensory stimuli like sights and sounds might seem more dynamic or could be perceived as somewhat distorted. Altogether, this mental buzz creates a trippy atmosphere but one in which concentration on detailed tasks and lucid conversation are very much possible. If shared in social settings, Purple Maui’s ability to stimulate stream of consciousness may morph into good vibes and chattiness.

As this high wears on, however, its head-focused effects are eventually confounded by heavy physical relaxation. After a little over an hour, the smoker’s core and limbs can begin to tingle and eyelids may begin to droop, rendering any physical exertion increasingly difficult. Soon enough, users who are sufficiently relaxed may even begin to feel a sense of numbness or disconnection from their bodies. Even though the consumer may be able to think and speak clearly at this point, any inclination to productivity may be totally sapped by Purple Maui’s relaxing properties. Because of its slow dip into sleepiness, Purple Maui is recommended for consumption later in the day or early in the evening.

Purple Maui’s wide-ranging effects can have several benefits for medical cannabis patients. For those dealing with attention deficit disorders, its initially cerebral properties can aid focus. The strain’s ability to enhance mood and relieve tension may also temporarily soothe the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. Physical benefits include some late-blooming relief from aches and pains, both mild and chronic. Anti-inflammatory properties may also take the edge off of afflictions like headaches and cramps. Because Purple Maui can induce some fairly recursive and even paranoid modes of thinking, it is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Unfortunately for home growers, seeds of Purple Maui do not seem to be available online. Instead, those looking to cultivate the colorful strain should somehow obtain clippings from mature, healthy plants. These can be grown as “clones” and may thrive in a climate-controlled indoor environment or in a hot and semi-humid outdoor climate. Plants tend to grow tall and branchy and indoor growers may need to keep height manageable with occasional pruning. Finally, gardeners looking to accentuate Purple Maui’s signature purple leaves should expose their crops to cold (but not freezing) nighttime temperatures around the 8 or 9 week mark; flowering begins within 9 to 10 weeks.

With a multifaceted high, Purple Maui may be of interest to both indica and sativa fans. Its strong aromatic and visual bag appeal makes this strain something of a collector’s item.