The Unique Chemistry Behind The Purple Hue Of Wed

Purple cannabis strains are popular among enthusiasts due to their vibrant violet, blue, or maroon hues, which differ from the expected green colour. The purple colour is caused by chemical compounds called anthocyanins, which are water-soluble pigments belonging to the flavonoid family. While genetics play a significant role in the presence of anthocyanins, environmental factors, such as temperature and pH levels, also influence the intensity of the purple colour. Despite the allure of purple cannabis, the colour does not indicate higher potency, and the perceived benefits of purple strains may be attributed to a placebo effect.

The role of genetics

Genetics play a significant role in turning cannabis plants purple. Scientifically, a group of flavonoids called "anthocyanins" are responsible for the purple, red, or blue pigments in plants. These pigments are also found in many different purple and red vegetables and fruits, such as eggplants and blueberries. If the levels of anthocyanins in the plant are low, the chances of a cannabis plant turning purple are also low.

Some cannabis strains naturally contain higher levels of anthocyanins than others due to their genetic makeup. For example, Granddaddy Purple is known for its deep purples and pastel lavender hues. This is due to its genetic predisposition to high anthocyanin levels. Other strains with similar names, such as Purple Kush, Mendocino Purps, and Purple Urkle, also tend to exhibit purple hues due to their genetic predisposition.

The presence of anthocyanins in cannabis plants is influenced by their genetics and the environmental conditions they are exposed to. While genetics provide the building blocks for anthocyanin production, environmental factors such as temperature and pH levels can trigger or enhance the expression of these pigments.

In summary, the role of genetics in the purple coloration of cannabis plants is significant. Certain strains are genetically predisposed to higher levels of anthocyanins, which provide the potential for purple hues. However, the expression of these pigments can be influenced by environmental factors as well.

The role of the environment

The pH level of the environment is also important. Acidic environments tend to produce red and yellow colours, while purple occurs in pH-neutral environments, and blues are expressed in higher pH levels.

The natural cycle of the cannabis plant also plays a part. As the sun's cycle shortens in the fall, the plants switch from their vegetative state to their flowering stage, and they start to grow buds. These flowers will ripen around eight weeks into the flowering cycle, and this is when you begin to see the cannabis plant, along with the other trees and bushes, changing colours as fall arrives. The plants fade into yellow, purple, and red shades that become more intense as they near harvest.

The environment's influence on the plant's perception of danger can also trigger colour-changing. Anthocyanins increase in production when the plant senses it is in danger. This is why the myth of "purple cannabis coming from the cold north" holds some truth.

The pH level

The colour of a wedding dress is often a reflection of personal taste and style, but there are some cultural and traditional influences at play as well. While white is a popular choice in the Western world, representing purity and innocence, other colours like purple have their own unique appeal and significance. When it comes to the pH level's impact on the colour of a wedding dress, there are some interesting chemical interactions to consider.

Acidic solutions can affect the chemical structure of dyes, causing them to take on different colours. For example, a red dye exposed to an acidic environment may shift towards a more bluish or purple hue. This occurs because the acidic conditions alter the way light interacts with the dye molecules, changing the wavelength of light that is reflected and, consequently, the colour that we perceive. In the case of wedding dresses, if a dress is exposed to acidic conditions, whether through environmental factors or specific treatments, it can result in a subtle or even noticeable shift in its colour.

On the other hand, alkaline or basic solutions can also influence the colour of dyes. A purple dye, for instance, may become brighter or take on a slightly different shade when exposed to a high pH level. This is because alkaline conditions can modify the chemical bonds within the dye molecules, leading to altered light absorption properties. As a result, the colour of a wedding dress could change if it comes into contact with alkaline substances during manufacturing or care.

Understanding the pH level and its impact on dyes is crucial for dressmakers, designers, and individuals caring for their wedding dresses. The preservation of a dress's colour often relies on maintaining stable pH levels during storage or cleaning. By recognising the influence of pH, appropriate steps can be taken to ensure wedding dresses retain their intended colour, whether it's a vibrant purple or a subtle lilac shade.

The temperature

To encourage purple colouring, daytime temperatures should be kept in the optimal range for cannabis growth, typically between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Nighttime temperatures should be cooler, ideally between 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C). This temperature difference should be maintained during the final weeks of flowering. The temperature drop should be gradual to avoid stressing the plant.

Some cannabis growers try to shock the plant with very cold temperatures, especially at night, to encourage purple colouring. However, this technique can be detrimental to the plant's growth and development. Lower temperatures can slow plant growth and hinder flower development. It is generally not recommended to lower temperatures solely to achieve coloured buds, especially at the beginning of the flowering stage.

Additionally, strong, direct light may also help bring out purple colouring in some strains. LED grow lights, particularly those with higher wattage, tend to enhance purple colouring.

The myth of potency

Purple cannabis strains owe their distinctive colour to the chemical compounds known as anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are a group of water-soluble pigments that belong to the larger class of compounds known as flavonoids, which are found in many plants. Anthocyanin pigments create purple, blue, and red hues.

The colour purple in cannabis has long been associated with potency. However, this is simply a myth. While the exact mechanism behind colour formation remains under study, it's clear that genetics play a significant role. Some cannabis strains naturally possess genes that promote anthocyanin synthesis, resulting in purple flowers.

The colour of the cannabis flower is primarily an aesthetic characteristic that varies from strain to strain. Think of it as the different eye colours that people have. They aren't indicators of one being better than another in any aspect. The specific combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, such as THC and THCA, in a particular strain determines the effects and benefits of cannabis.

Purple cannabis may be visually appealing, but its colour does not directly impact its overall quality or potency. The widespread belief that purple cannabis is more potent is not true. In fact, science has shown that anthocyanins could impede THC development. A purple-blossomed plant exposed to cold temperatures may produce less THC.

Therefore, it is important to understand that the colour of cannabis is not an indicator of potency. The effects and benefits of cannabis are determined by the unique combination of terpenes and cannabinoids present in each strain.

Frequently asked questions