California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (2024)

California, a pioneer in cannabis culture and legalization, continues to lead with a diverse array of cannabis strains that cater to every palette. From the consistent favorite, Blue Dream, to the rising star, Leafly’s Strain of the Year 2023 Permanent Marker, the Golden State’s cannabis enthusiasts have spoken through their search volumes. It’s important to note that while Blue Dream tops the charts, this list is driven by overall search volume on Leafly, showcasing the collective curiosity and preference of Californians rather than an editorial ranking of the best strains.

The top 5 most searched strains in California

1. Blue Dream: A Harmonious High

Still reigning supreme, Blue Dream’s balanced high and sweet berry aroma keep it at the forefront of California’s cannabis scene. Its popularity underscores its role as a versatile staple in the cannabis community.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (1)

Blue Dream

Hybrid

  • Creative • Uplifted •Energetic
  • THC ~18%

Blue Dreamis a sativa-dominanthybrid marijuana strainmade by crossingBlueberrywithHaze. This strain produces a balanced high, along with effects such ascerebral stimulation andfull-body relaxation. Blue dream is 18% THCbut has a low CBD percentage, making this potent strain a fan favorite of both novice and veteran cannabis consumers. In terms of flavor, Blue Dream is reported to smell and taste like sweetberries. Medical marijuana patients often use Blue Dream to treat symptoms ofdepression,chronic pain, andnausea. Blue Dream originated in California and has since achieved legendary status among West Coast strains and has quickly becomeone of the most-searched-for strains in the Leafly database.

shop Blue Dream

2. Lemon Cherry Gelato: The Sweet Sensation

Holding firm at second, Lemon Cherry Gelato delights with its vibrant flavor profile and euphoric effects, embodying the innovative spirit of California’s cannabis culture.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (2)

Lemon Cherry Gelato

Hybrid

  • Tingly • Giggly •Relaxed
  • Dizzy •Dry Mouth
  • THC 22% •CBD 0%


Lemon Cherry Gelato is a hybrid weed strain made from a genetic cross between Sunset Sherbet and Girl Scout Cookies. Lemon Cherry Gelato is 20% THC, making this strain an ideal choice for experienced cannabis consumers. Leafly customers tell us Lemon Cherry Gelato effects include tingly, relaxed, and euphoric. Medical marijuana patients often choose Lemon Cherry Gelato when dealing with symptoms associated withanxiety,pain, and stress. Bred by Backpackboyz, Lemon Cherry Gelato features an aroma of lime, berries, andcitrus with flavors of lemon, andsweetfruit.

shop Lemon Cherry Gelato

3. GG4: The Potent Staple

GG4, also known as Gorilla Glue #4, climbs the ranks with its powerful punch and sticky resin, proving its enduring appeal among those seeking a heavy-hitting experience.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (3)

GG4

Hybrid

  • Relaxed • Sleepy •Hungry
  • THC ~20%

Gorilla Glue is ahybridweed strain made from a genetic cross between Chem’s Sister,Sour Dubb, andChocolate Diesel. This strain is 37%sativaand 63%indica. “Gorilla Glue”, also known as “Original Glue” or “GG4”, is a potent strain that delivers heavy-handed euphoria and relaxation, leaving you feeling “glued” to the couch. Its chunky, resin-covered buds fill the room with pungent earthy and sour aromas inherited from its parent strains. Gorilla Glue is 20% THC, making this strain an ideal choice for experienced cannabis consumers. Leafly customers tell us Gorilla Glue effects include feelingrelaxed,sleepy, andhungry.

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4. Wedding Cake: The Relaxing Indulgence

Jumping from ninth to fourth place, Kush Mints has surged in popularity thanks to its refreshing minty flavor and balanced high. This climb highlights a growing interest in strains that offer both invigorating taste profiles and comprehensive effects.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (4)

Wedding Cake

Hybrid

  • Relaxed •Aroused •Hungry
  • THC ~24%

Wedding Cake, also known as “Triangle Mints #23,” is a potent type of indica-hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing Triangle Kush with Animal Mints. Fun fact: In Canada, this strain is known as Pink Cookies. The Wedding Cake strain provides relaxing and euphoric effects that calm the body and mind. This strain yields a rich and tangy flavor profile with undertones of earthy pepper. Medical marijuana patients choose Wedding Cake to help relieve symptoms associated with pain, insomnia and appetite loss. Consumers with a low THC tolerance should enjoy this strain with an extra slice of care due to its high THC content. Wedding Cake has soared in popularity over the years and was named Leafly Strain of the Year in 2019.

shop Wedding Cake

5. Permanent Marker: Leafly Strain of the Year 2023

Making an impressive leap from 30th to fifth place, The Soap captivates with its unique, clean scent and uplifting effects. Its rapid ascent is a clear indicator of Arizona’s adventurous palate and openness to new cannabis experiences.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (5)

Permanent Marker

Hybrid

  • Tingly • Talkative •Aroused
  • THC ~18%

Permanent Markeris a modern cannabis strain and is Leafly Strain of the Year 2023! Los Angeles indie brand Doja Exclusive released the Permanent Marker weed strain in 2022 on both coasts. Bred and grown by Seed Junky Genetics’ JBeezy and selected by Doja Pak, the strain fuses several well-established cultivars: (Biscottix Sherb Bx) xJealousy. Floral, soapy, candy, and gassy funk smells fully translate into the taste. It has a lingering, pungent flavor of a soapy funk with a hint of candy and floral gas tones. The potent strain brings out creativity for daytime relaxation, followed up by the munchies and the urge to roll up some more.

shop Permanent Marker

Notable Climbers and Surprises

OG Kush: Made an impressive leap from 14th to 9th, signaling a renewed interest in this classic strain known for its stress-relieving and euphoric effects.

find OG Kush

Gary Payton: This strain has seen a notable drop, moving from 10th to 16th, indicating shifts in user preferences away from its signature potent and euphoric effects.

find Gary Payton

Jack Herer: Climbing from 18th to 11th, this sativa-dominant strain is gaining traction for its clear-headed and creative high, reflecting a growing appreciation for energizing strains.

find Jack Herer

Sherbert: Jumping from 19th to 12th, Sherbert’s rise highlights its popularity for those seeking a stress-relieving and indulgent experience, with its sweet and fruity flavors.

find Sherbert

Jealousy: Making significant strides from 19th to 13th, Jealousy is catching attention with its unique flavor profile and potent, relaxing effects, showcasing the market’s appetite for novel experiences.

find Jealousy

As summer approaches, we’re gearing up to bring you the latest trends, standout strains, and hidden gems from California’s ever-evolving cannabis scene.

Whether you’re a fan of the classics or eager to try the latest innovations, California has something to offer every cannabis enthusiast. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore the diverse and dynamic world of cannabis in the Golden State.

California's cannabis scene: Top strains and emerging favorites of 2024 (2024)

FAQs

What is the best strain for depression in 2024? ›

Wedding Cake is a top-rated Indica strain renowned for its exceptional therapeutic benefits and effects. This strain is highly regarded for its mood-elevating properties, making it an effective treatment for reducing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms alongside social anxiety.

What strain has the longest lasting high? ›

Our Top Picks: The Best Cannabis Strains for a Long-Lasting High
  • Blissful Wizard – Top Energizing Hybrid for long-lasting high.
  • Durban Poison – People's Choice for Longer Effects.
  • Pink Gorilla – Delicious Indica Quality.
  • GMO Cookies – Powerful Pain & Stress Relief.
  • Kansas City Kush – Top Shelf Indica for Powerful Effects.

What strains are best for female arousal 2024? ›

The best weed strains for female arousal are Northern Lights, Trainwreck, Granddaddy Purple, Blue Dream, and Sour Diesel.

Which is the oldest cannabis strain still found today? ›

Hindu Kush, or Hindi Kush, also comes from the Hindu Kush Mountains and is referred to as one of the world's oldest weed strains. In Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, Hindu Kush is commonly used to produce hash.

What strain causes the most anxiety? ›

For some individuals, Sativas can exacerbate feelings of anxiety or induce paranoia. As a result, for people battling anxiety, it's best to proceed with caution when trying a new Sativa strain.

What is the best Sativa strain for depression? ›

Strawberry Cough – Best for Depression, Anxiety & Stress Relief. This one is a potent sativa marijuana strain known for its sweet smell of fresh strawberries and uplifting effects. Users report feeling energetic, uplifted, and chatty, making it an ideal choice for combating stress and promoting a sense of euphoria.

What are the strongest 100% indica strains? ›

The best Indica strains are Grandaddy Purple, Northern Light, and Blueberry. Some other popular Indica strains include Purple Punch, Larry OG, Death Star, and Wedding Cake. These strains are known for their potency and ability to induce deep relaxing effects.

What is the most potent indica in the world? ›

What Is the Strongest Indica Strain? Girls Scout Cookies is a potent Indica strain renowned for its whole-body high. Other potent Indica strains include Purple Kush, Northern Lights, and Green Gelato.

What strain do people prefer? ›

Generally, people choose Sativa because it causes desired effects, such as. It's thought that Sativa causes these effects due to it's normally high THC, and low CBD content, along with dominant terpenes associated with increased energy, such as limonene and valencene.

What terpene causes arousal? ›

Limonene

Per research regarding the sexual benefits of terpene, limonene boasts libido-boosting effects upon inhalation. This phenomenon happens because the terpene creates a body-warming sense of intense euphoria that puts you in a relaxed state, helping increase sexual desire.

What strain did they smoke in the 70s? ›

Strains like Colombian Gold, Acapulco Gold, Oaxacan Gold or Panama Red were very popular, as were Thai landrace genetics.

What is the purest indica strain? ›

Strains like Purple Kush, Master Kush, and Hindu Kush from cannabis plants growing in the Hindu Kush region are pure Indica strains.

What was cannabis called in ancient times? ›

Cannabis was introduced to the ancient Assyrians by the Iranians, who had discovered its psychoactive properties. Primarily used in religious ceremonies, they called it qunubu or "way to produce smoke" in their ancient language. It's thought that this is the likely origin of the modern word "cannabis."

Is Indica or Sativa better for mental health? ›

Since Indica-dominant strains are typically linked to drowsiness and relaxation, they are suitable for reducing anxiety. Conversely, Sativa -dominant strains could be stimulating and uplifting, which could make some people feel more anxious, especially those with higher levels of THC.

What strains are used for depression? ›

Best Marijuana Strains for Depression
  • Jack Herer.
  • Cinex.
  • Grandaddy Purple.
  • Cannatonic.

What pulled us out of depression? ›

Ironically, it was World War II, which had arisen in part out of the Great Depression, that finally pulled the United States out of its decade-long economic crisis.

What is the strongest form of depression? ›

Clinical depression is the more-severe form of depression, also known as major depression or major depressive disorder.

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