Are there dark strains of marijuana?

Do dark varieties of marijuana occur naturally in nature? Of course. Plant parts can take on different colors, including flowers, leaves, buds, pistils and secretory hairs. True fans of marijuana, i.e. cannabis, are no longer surprised by the fact that there are varieties with various aromas and flavors, and even more so with different colors. Many of them also know how to extract more intense and exotic colors from hemp during cultivation! Why do this? For example, for visual effects.

Dark marijuana varieties vs. brown marijuana – is it a result of genetics or a warning light?

Dark marijuana strains may have naturally darker leaves and buds, which is a result of their genetics. Such varieties often feature unique shades such as purple, navy blue, and even black. However, if a plant that usually has lighter colored leaves or buds begins to turn brown, this may be a warning sign.

In this article, we will first present the aspect related to genetically dark marijuana varieties and then see when dark or brown marijuana should trigger a warning light for a grower. We invite you.

Black marijuana buds

What makes cannabis naturally so dark as to be black? Phytochemicals, or plant dyes, are responsible for all the shades that plant parts take on. In most plants, the most abundant pigment is chlorophyll, which is responsible for the green color. The dark buds of marijuana are probably due to the presence of anthocyanins in the plant. These flavonoids are found in fruits such as blueberries and blackberries, but also in vegetables such as eggplant. Anthocyanins take on different colors depending on pH and temperature, so in some cases you can manipulate the color of marijuana during its cultivation.

Do dark marijuana buds always portend something good?

Unfortunately, we have to distinguish the dark, but natural color of dried hemp flowers from dark, spoiled dried material. The best method is to use our sense of smell as a quality indicator. If the herb does not smell, i.e. you do not feel the terpenes, then in combination with a dark brown tint, it is a sign that you have a low-quality herb. Read more about how to check the quality of dried herbs HERE.

Brown marijuana – a product of genetics or a breeding problem?

Dark-colored cannabis strains often display naturally dark leaves and buds as a result of their genetic heritage. Such varieties often feature unusual colors, such as shades of purple, navy blue and even black. However, when a plant that usually has lighter leaves or buds suddenly begins to turn a darker shade, it may be a warning sign.

How to tell the difference? 

Brown marijuana, brown buds, dark marijuana varieties – summary 

In summary, dark marijuana strains are often the result of specific genetics that give the plants unusual colors, such as shades of purple, navy blue, and even black. Breeders value these varieties for their unique appearance and often specific properties. However, regardless of natural genetic characteristics, each marijuana plant requires careful observation.

A change in color to a darker color, especially if it is a significant and unexpected change, may be a warning signal. This may indicate a number of problems, such as environmental stress, nutrient deficiencies, diseases, or excess fertilizers. Therefore, it is important for breeders to be able to distinguish variety-specific characteristics from potential signals of plant health problems.

Remember that the key to success is regular and thorough observation of plants, paying attention to any changes in their appearance and health, and appropriate response to detected problems. Understanding the specifics of a given marijuana variety and the ability to identify problems are the foundations of effective and satisfying cultivation.

If you are looking for marijuana seeds with unusual, exotic colors, you will find everything here! Examples of genetics are given in our entry about colorful marijuana strains.