Rainbow Kush strain guide
Rainbow Kush is an indica-leaning hybrid name that has been used for more than one plant. The most common description is a skunky, piney Kush with a calm body feel and a happy, focused head, but the genetics behind a given product depend on who grew it.
Where does Rainbow Kush come from?
There is no single agreed origin. One strain database describes Rainbow Kush as a three-way cross descended from Master Kush, Hindu Kush and Montel's Pride, without naming a breeder. Another database lists a different version from Purple City Genetics, built from Kush Mints, Durban and Gushers.
Because two quite different recipes share the name, we treat its lineage as not well documented. It is also a separate strain from Rainbow, even though the names get mixed up.
What does Rainbow Kush smell and taste like?
The older Kush version is described as skunky and earthy, with clear notes of pine, and a piney taste to match. The Purple City version is described as more savoury: funky cheese, creamy diesel and gas with an earthy finish.
None of the sources we checked publish a terpene profile for Rainbow Kush, so we can't say which terpenes lead. Check the label of a lab-tested product for that.
Rainbow Kush effects: what people report
People mostly describe Rainbow Kush as relaxed and happy, with a calming body feel balanced by a focused head. Some also call it sleepy or a bit spaced out, especially as it settles.
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 some people mention dizziness or feeling paranoid.
How strong is Rainbow Kush?
It depends on which Rainbow Kush you have. One strain database puts the Kush-family version at about 17% to 22% THC, while the Purple City version is listed at 33%. CBD is usually low.
With a range that wide, the number on your label matters far more than the name. If you are new to it, start with a small amount and give it time before having more.
Buying Rainbow Kush in Canada
Since the name covers different genetics, read the product description and the THC figure closely. Our guide to reading cannabis labels can help you make sense of them.
You might find it as dried flower, pre-rolls or infused products. Check the packaging date too, since fresher flower keeps more of its smell.
Rainbow Kush vs Master Kush
Master Kush is named as a parent in the most common version of Rainbow Kush, so they share an earthy, Kush character. Master Kush is the classic indica, known for an earthy, incense-like smell and a calm, sleepy feel. Rainbow Kush is usually described with more skunk and pine, and with a slightly more focused, happy headspace on top of the body calm. If you want the well-known original, go with Master Kush. If you're curious about a piney, skunkier take, try Rainbow Kush, but check the label first.
Strains like Rainbow Kush
If you like Rainbow Kush, these are worth a look:
- Master Kush: a named parent, earthy and calm.
- Hindu Kush: another named parent, the classic heavy indica.
- Kush Mints: a parent of the Purple City version, with a cool, gassy smell.
- Rainbow: a different strain with a similar name, worth comparing.
