- Purple Urkle is a hybrid Indica-dominant Hybrid strain originating from USA (California), dating back to 1998.
- Lab tests place its THC content at approximately 18-23%.
- Its lineage runs through Mendocino Purps phenotype (clone-only), making it a key reference point for breeders.
- 3 documented strains descend from Purple Urkle, including modern market favourites.
- Dominant terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene — driving its signature aroma and effects.
About Purple Urkle
Purple Urkle is a clone-only strain that originated in Mendocino County, California in the late 1990s. It is believed to be a phenotype of Mendocino Purps, selected for its extreme purple coloration — the buds turn deep purple to almost black, with bright orange hairs and a thick coat of trichomes. The aroma is unmistakable: sweet grape, berry, floral, and earthy notes with a distinct 'purple' character. Effects are indica-dominant and deeply relaxing, with a euphoric onset that settles into full-body calm. Purple Urkle was used by Ken Estes to create Granddaddy Purple (crossed with Big Bud), one of the most famous strains of all time.
Flavor Profile
The Story & Lineage Origin
Purple Urkle emerged from the Mendocino County underground cannabis scene in the late 1990s. The clone was closely held and traded among California growers.
Its extreme purple coloration was rare at the time and made it highly sought after. Ken Estes used Purple Urkle as the mother for Granddaddy Purple, crossing it with a Big Bud male.
The strain was also used in breeding numerous other purple varieties. Purple Urkle remains a highly respected clone-only strain and is considered one of the foundational 'purple' genetics in modern cannabis.
Seeds & Availability
Purple Urkle was bred by Mendocino County growers, Ken Estes (breeder of GDP). Official seed packs from the breeder and authorized retailers sell out fast and are frequently counterfeited — verify pack authenticity (breeder logo, batch codes) before buying, and expect phenotype variation between packs.
Genetic Background
Selected phenotype from Mendocino Purps landrace-related genetics
Phenotypes & Cultivars
Purple Urkle is available in the following phenotypes and cultivars:
Terpene Profile
Purple Urkle is dominated by Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene. These compounds shape the strain's aroma, flavor, and reported effects.
Genetic Families
Purple Urkle is part of the following genetic families:
Known Offspring
Strains that descend from Purple Urkle:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the THC percentage of Purple Urkle?
Purple Urkle typically tests at 18-23% THC content in lab results, though actual potency varies by phenotype, growing conditions, and harvest. As an indica-leaning strain, the THC produces a heavier body-driven effect.
Is Purple Urkle a sativa or indica?
Purple Urkle is an indica-dominant hybrid cannabis strain (Indica-dominant Hybrid). Bred from Mendocino Purps phenotype (clone-only), its effects lean toward a relaxing, body-driven indica experience. Users report: Relaxing, euphoric, sleepy, happy, body-melting.
Purple Urkle strain review — what to expect
Purple Urkle is known for Relaxing, euphoric, sleepy, happy, body-melting. A legendary Mendocino indica clone known for its extreme purple coloration and sweet grape-floral aroma. Purple Urkle is the parent of Granddaddy Purple (with Big Bud) and a cornerstone of the purple strain lineage. The aroma profile features sweet grape, berry, floral, earth, candy, lavender. Dominant terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene.
What are the phenotypes of Purple Urkle?
Purple Urkle expresses several phenotypes and cuts, including Purple Urkle, Urkle, Mendocino Purps. The dominant phenotypes often show subtle differences in structure, flowering time, color expression, and terpene balance while sharing the same core genetics.
What is Purple Urkle crossed from?
Purple Urkle was bred from Mendocino Purps phenotype (clone-only). Detailed ancestry: Selected phenotype from Mendocino Purps landrace-related genetics. This cross produces the strain's characteristic effects, terpene profile, and growth pattern.
What terpenes are in Purple Urkle?
Purple Urkle is dominated by Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene. These aromatic compounds shape the strain's signature flavor, aroma, and contribute to its reported effects through the entourage effect.
How much does Purple Urkle yield and how long does it flower?
Purple Urkle has a flowering time of 8-10 weeks and produces moderate yields. Plants reach short to medium height, making it well-suited for smaller grow spaces.
What is Purple Urkle and where does it come from?
Purple Urkle is an indica-dominant hybrid cannabis strain that originates from USA (California). It belongs to the late-1990s era of cannabis genetics. A legendary Mendocino indica clone known for its extreme purple coloration and sweet grape-floral aroma. Purple Urkle is the parent of Granddaddy Purple (with Big Bud) and a cornerstone of the purple strain lineage.
What is the genetic background of Purple Urkle?
Purple Urkle has the following ancestry: Selected phenotype from Mendocino Purps landrace-related genetics.
Is Purple Urkle indica or sativa?
Purple Urkle is an indica-dominant hybrid cannabis strain. Learn how in indica vs sativa classification differs in our strain guide.
What does Purple Urkle smell and taste like?
Purple Urkle has a Sweet grape, berry, floral, earth, candy, lavender aroma, with flavors described as Grape, berry, floral, sweet, earthy. Its dominant terpenes are Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene.
What are the effects of Purple Urkle?
Users report Relaxing, euphoric, sleepy, happy, body-melting. As an indica-dominant strain, it leans toward relaxing body effects.
Medical Applications
Purple Urkle is commonly associated with: