Chunky Monkey strain guide
Chunky Monkey is an indica-leaning hybrid most often listed as a cross of Grape Ape and Banana Kush. People know it for a sweet grape and earthy smell and a giggly, relaxed feel. Heads up: a few unrelated strains share the name, so the label matters.
Where does Chunky Monkey come from?
The version most strain guides describe is a cross of Grape Ape and Banana Kush, usually listed as about 70% indica. The original breeder isn't well documented. One reviewer credits the pairing to Kind Tree, a brand that sells flower under this name in the US.
The name is a crowded one. A seed company has sold a different Chunky Monkey built from Deep Chunk and a banana OG line, and another unrelated cut is said to come from Fatso and Grease Monkey. They share a name, not a family.
What does Chunky Monkey smell and taste like?
Most people pick up sweet grape first, with an earthy, herbal base and a touch of spice. Some describe fruity berry and cherry on the inhale, and a few mention a cheesy or diesel note in the background.
Published terpene results list caryophyllene first, followed by humulene and limonene. Caryophyllene brings the peppery spice, humulene a woody, hoppy tone and limonene a little citrus brightness.
Chunky Monkey effects: what people report
People most often describe a happy, giggly start that eases into a relaxed body feel. Several reviewers say it doesn't feel as sleepy as some indica strains, while others find it does get drowsy later on. Feeling sociable and creative comes up too.
These are experiences people report, not promises. How it feels depends on the product, how much you have and your own tolerance. Dry mouth and dry eyes are the most common complaints, and the munchies get a mention.
How strong is Chunky Monkey?
Strain listings put Chunky Monkey at about 18% to 23% THC, with very little CBD. Individual batches sold under the name have been listed higher than that, which fits with several different cuts sharing it.
If you're new to it, start with a small amount and give it time before having more. Your batch's THC and CBD numbers are on the label, and our guide to reading cannabis labels explains what they mean.
Buying Chunky Monkey in Canada
Because more than one strain goes by this name, check the product description for the parents if it's listed. The grape and banana version is the one described on this page.
You might find it as dried flower or pre-rolls. Check the THC and CBD numbers and the packaging date, since fresher flower keeps more of that sweet grape smell.
Chunky Monkey vs Grape Ape
Grape Ape is the parent that gives Chunky Monkey its grape smell, so the two share a sweet, fruity nose. Grape Ape is the more straightforward of the pair: grape and earth, with a heavy, settled feel. Chunky Monkey adds spice and a giggly lift up front, and its listings run a little higher in THC. If you want the classic grape strain, start with Grape Ape. If a brighter, chattier take sounds better, try Chunky Monkey.
Strains like Chunky Monkey
If you like Chunky Monkey, these are worth a look:
- Grape Ape: one of its parents, with the same sweet grape smell and a heavier, calmer reputation.
- Banana Kush: the other parent, fruity and creamy with a relaxed feel.
- Banana OG: another banana-scented strain with an earthy, gassy side.
- Purple Urkle: a grape and berry classic for fans of the fruity side.
