Get to Know Iconic BLUE Strains | Blue Dream, Blue Rntz, Blue Cheese, and MORE

They’re wildly popular, delectably sweet, and beautifully… blue? Learn more about blue cannabis strains, their shared features, and why they always fly off dispensary shelves.

Even if you’re not intimately familiar with every “blue” strain, we’re confident you’re a fan of at least one. That’s because blue cannabis cultivars tend to be VERY popular. We’re talking about the iconic Blue Dream, candy-like Blue RNTZ, and more! 

So, what is it that makes them blue? Is it their bud color? Is it purely genetic? Or maybe it’s all about that “blue” state of mind?

No, sometimes, and… maybe? There are shared characteristics across many of these beloved cultivars, but there’s still a healthy amount of debate about what qualifies a strain for the blue club. That’s why we’re taking today to explore all things blue!

From their soothing aromatic compounds and cultural impact to unique genetics and chemistry, learn more about legendary blue cannabis strains and why consumers just can’t get enough!

What Are “Blue” Cannabis Strains?

First, the “blue” part of these cultivars doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with the color of their buds. Sure, some have blue or purple tinted flowers thanks to flavonoids like anthocyanins and myricetin, but it’s more about genetics and effects (although, we’re sure there’s debate about that as well).

Many iconic blue cannabis cultivars are descended from the legendary Blueberry. American breeder DJ Short cultivated Blueberry in the late 1970s by crossing various landrace strains (possibly Purple Thai, Afghan, et al.). The cultivator worked with multiple seed banks and breeders, so the genetics ended up getting passed around quite a bit. Ultimately, the iconic Blueberry quickly became popular for its sweet aroma of fresh blueberries.

While more research is needed to verify this, that recognizable blueberry aroma COULD be due, in part, to the presence of terpene isolates like Linalool and β-Myrcene. It’s long been believed that this combination is responsible for that berry aroma, and it’s worth noting that many blue strains contain similar terpene. 

However, advanced analytical testing is needed to confirm the precise aromatic compounds responsible for Blueberry’s aroma. For example, sweet esters like senecioates and tiglates have berry-forward scents that might be responsible for sweeter, fruitier cannabis aromas. We’re huge nerds for stuff like this, so we’ll let you know if we unlock the secret to Blueberry cannabis aromatics in our research!

When it comes to Blueberry’s effects, however, everyone seems to agree that they’re oh-so chill. This indica-dominant cultivar has long-lasting effects that are euphoric and intensely relaxing. While these effects are often – but not always – passed on to Blueberry’s genetic children, they ARE a key characteristic of the beloved “blue” experience. 

It’s not technically accurate to say that all blue strains are “indicas” (don’t get us started on the misuse of terms like sativa and indica), but they do tend to be more relaxing than uplifting. Some are more likely to send you to sleep than others, but there’s almost always a general sense of soothing joy and euphoria involved. 

Ready for that delicious blue cannabis experience? Then you’ve got to get your hands on the following cultivars!

Blue Dream

We’d be shocked if you weren’t already a fan of Blue Dream. First cultivated in Northern California in the early 2000s, this cross between Blueberry and Haze had an immediate impact on the cannabis community. Consumers loved its sweet flavor and balanced, dreamy effects, so Blue Dream’s popularity quickly spread throughout California and into Washington, Oregon, Colorado, and, eventually, across the globe.

The Blue Dream aroma is fruity and sweet without being overpowering, and it’s downright dank and delicious. This is thanks, in part, to various aromatic compounds such as dominant terpenes β-Myrcene, β-Caryophyllene, and α-Caryophyllene. 

BLUE DREAM

EXOTIC FACTOR — 82%

LOUD FACTOR — 86%

A big part of this cultivar’s fame comes from its beautifully balanced effects. The combination of mental stimulation and blissful body relaxation makes Blue Dream a versatile option that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Additionally, the lack of couch-lock allows consumers to relax while still being productive if they so choose.

Blue Runtz

Cultivated by an unknown breeder, Blue Runtz is a cross between Blueberry and White Runtz. If we’re being honest, it has everything you’d want from such deliciously dank parents. 

A combination of blueberries and blackberries gets an unexpected creamy hit from White Runtz, making this cultivar dank and musty, sweet and smooth, and overall a damn good time. Dominant terpenes β-Caryophyllene, d-Limonene, and Linalool help create the Blue RNTZ aromatic profile people just can’t seem to get enough of. 

BLUE RNTZ

GAS FACTOR — 82%

LOUD FACTOR — 88%

While Blue Runtz does get a splash of stimulating effects from its Runtz genetics, it leans more into the indica side of its hybrid nature. The mental stimulation is euphoric and creative, but the relaxing effects are tingly and oh-so chill. Imagine the most uplifting mood with a sense of serenity that’ll have you relaxing your shoulders and unclenching your jaw.

Blueberry Muffin

If you’re picturing steaming pastries fresh out of the oven, the aroma of Blueberry Muffin isn’t too far off. Parent strains Purple Panty Dropper and Blueberry give this sweet, exotic cultivar a wealth of flavor that manages to be berry-forward and herbal with tantalizing notes of fresh earth.

With an Exotic Score of 100 and a Loud Factor of 65, its aroma is unforgettably tempting. The most prominent notes are sweet blueberries, herbs, fresh earth, and a barely-there creamy finish thanks, in part, to dominant terpenes β-Caryophyllene, Cadinene, and β-Myrcene. Yes, the aroma is scrumptious, but it’s the balanced effects that make this cultivar a favorite among cannabis consumers. 

BLUEBERRY MUFFIN

EXOTIC FACTOR — 100%

LOUD FACTOR — 65%

Blueberry Muffin is both physically relaxing and mentally stimulating. Your body will unwind without the couchlock, and your mind will feel inspired without being over-stimulated. Recommended for chill afternoons where you can let your creative juices flow at whatever pace you’re comfortable going. 

Blue Cheese

While the name of this strain may inspire thoughts of funky dairy products, the Blue Cheese strain falls securely into this category as a cross between Blueberry and Skunk #1. Yes, there’s a certain amount of funk involved, but it’s balanced beautifully with those sweet Blueberry genetics.

First, we can’t talk about this cultivar without briefly mentioning the chemical complexity of cheese weed. Most of the cannabis flavorants responsible for the uniquely tangy, sweet, and savory aromas of cheesy cannabis are, unsurprisingly, found in cheeses too. This includes free fatty acids octanoic acid and decanoic acid  with notable “cheesy” aromas that naturally occur in various dairy products and tropical fats like coconut oil. The true appeal of cheesy cannabis, however, lies in its balance of funky and sweet. 

Remember those berry-forward esters we mentioned earlier? The ones the Blueberry cultivar MIGHT possess? Well, many popular cheesy cultivars DO contain sweet esters like senecioates and tiglates! See? It’s all coming together. Just like a good charcuterie board, popular cheesy cannabis cultivars have the perfect balance of sweet and savory all in one place.

We’re still studying which aromatic compounds Blue Cheese possesses (Psst! Check out Thunderbird Cheese to experience these compounds in action!), but we do know that its dank blend of sweet, sour, and candy-like berries is due, in part, to dominant terpenes β-Caryophyllene, d-Limonene, and Linalool. 

BLUE CHEESE

EXOTIC FACTOR — 87%

LOUD FACTOR — 87%

So, while it may be the funky outlier of the blue cannabis group, it’s definitely got the berry aromas you’d expect from this club. Plus, the effects also align with other blue strains. Prepare for a joyful euphoria with a profound dose of relaxation. The mental stimulation is level-headed, but the relaxing effects might be best enjoyed when you’re already home and don’t have anywhere you need to go. 

Blue Nerds

It may not have those juicy Blueberry genetics, but the Blue Nerds cultivar has that blue berry-forward aroma. Cultivated by crossing decadent Lemon Cherry Gelato with The Original Z, this cultivar is considered by many to be one of the most popular to emerge in recent years. You’ll understand why after just one smell.

The gassy elements are present but not overwhelming, which allow its candy-like aroma to really shine. The aroma of the Blue NRDZ profile is thanks, in part, to dominant terpenes d-Limonene, β-Caryophyllene, and Linalool. Think sweet blueberries, sour citrus, and maybe even a hint of apple. It may be more complex than the candy of its namesake, but there’s no denying it’s a delight for the senses. 

BLUE NRDZ

GAS FACTOR — 83%

LOUD FACTOR — 80%

This hybrid cultivar tends to have pretty potent effects, but they’re also extremely balanced. It promotes a focused sense of creativity that’s ideal for social settings or tackling to-do lists, but the relaxing sense of peace it instills may be more powerful for some. We wouldn’t recommend it right before bed, but it would certainly enrich any mellow afternoon tasks or any conversations had while watching a beautiful sunset. 

Abstrax Tech | True-to-Type Cannabis Terpene Profiles

Our Native Series is a collection of true-to-type botanically-derived cannabis profiles that taste and smell exactly like the original cannabis material. The best part? Since they’re botanically sourced, they’re not limited by supply, and they’re affordable.

Don’t see your favorite blue cannabis profile? Let us know!

We’re always looking for classic, in-demand, and even up-and-coming cultivars to analyze for our Native Series. Contact us today, and let us know which blue cultivar we should analyze next!

Experience Iconic Blue Cannabis Profiles

SHOP Blue Dream

After years of searching, we’ve discovered the best version of this cultivar and modeled it from a particularly juicy sauce. This invigorating blend of sweet blueberries captures the sexiest, most iconic version of Blue Dream.

 

SHOP Blueberry Muffin

This relaxing profile gives new meaning to the word “exotic.” The luscious aroma of sweet blueberries is woven together with strong herbal notes and fresh earth. Blueberry Muffin is a succulent flavor like no other.

SHOP Blue RNTZ

Meet the slickest member of the dank RNTZ family. It takes the deep earthy musk and bright fruit of its lineage and adds tantalizing notes of dark blueberries and tart blackberries. Blue RNTZ is one smooth operator.

SHOP Blue Cheese

As a cross between Skunk #1 and Blueberry, Blue Cheese has a provocative and unusual aroma. Sweet meets sour with the tantalizing fusion of candy-like berries, notes of dank cheese, and just a dash of gas.

SHOP Blue NRDZ

You might guess the name by the smell alone. Thanks to those sweet, sweet genetics, Blue NRDZ delivers an overwhelmingly candy-like aroma that’s berry-forward, minimally gassy, and impossible to resist.