Top 10 Best Kush Strains (2024 UPDATE)

A close-up shot of a kush plant

The origin of Kush Strains can be traced back to the mountain range between Afghanistan and Pakistan, where cannabis has been cultivated for centuries.

In the 1970s, strains like Hindu Kush made their way to the United States, where breeders began crossing them with other varieties. This led to famous Kush hybrids such as OG Kush and Bubba Kush.

Kush strains exploded in the western US in the 1990s and 2000s, as breeders focused on increasing potency, yield, and resin production.

Decades after their introduction, Kush strains continue to be coveted for their distinctive flavor profile, and powerful, sedating effects.

Here's our list of the 10 Kush strains that everyone needs to try at least once!

1. Purple Kush

Purple Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by FrostRailz and Zurban_Poisonia on Growdiaries

Purple Kush, a blend of Purple Afghani and Hindu Kush from Central Asia, further honed in Northern California, is a standout feminized strain.

It's distinguished by a delightful scent that mixes sweet, earthy notes with a hint of fruitiness. The taste follows suit, featuring a spicy grape twist alongside a sweet flavor.

Not just a treat for the senses, Purple Kush packs a punch with THC levels soaring to 27%. It promises a profound, lasting relaxation and a touch of euphoria.

Depending on the amount used, it can offer either a gentle mental uplift or a more intense, psychedelic experience.

2. OG Kush

OG Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by marleyjane on Growdiaries

OG Kush, an iconic Indica-dominant hybrid deeply rooted in California, is a true reflection of the state's vibrant cannabis scene. This strain greets you with a rich, woody aroma laced with earthy notes, a zesty lemon kick, and a whisper of pine.

Tasting it is a journey through an earthy landscape, accented with a sharp pine flavor and an intriguing petroleum-like subtlety.

But there's more to OG Kush than just its flavor; it masterfully balances relaxation and euphoria, inviting you into a peaceful state of happiness while gently sparking your energy.

3. Power Kush

Power Kush feminized seeds, born from Afghani and Skunk #1, offer a potent, easy-to-grow strain suitable for beginners. Balancing indica and sativa traits, this strain delivers an intense experience rooted in its exotic lineage.

Its aroma blends sweet Skunk with citrus and earthy sandalwood, topped with classic Kush accents. True to its name, Power Kush provides a robust, balanced effect, combining a cerebral uplift and creative spark with deep relaxation.

This strain epitomizes the concept of "great power and great responsibility".

4. Hindu Kush

Hindu Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by Theia on Growdiaries

Hindu Kush feminized seeds, originating from the Hindu Kush mountains, are a pure Indica strain known for their tranquility and strength. This strain, distinct from Pure Kush, offers a deep relaxation journey.

Its aroma combines earthy, sweet citrus with pine hints, while its flavor melds earthiness, spice, citrus, and sandalwood.

Hindu Kush is particularly favored for medicinal use due to its profound body relaxation and pain relief properties, standing out as one of the most potent and revered Indica strains.

5. Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by stone2345 on Growdiaries

Bubba Kush, born from a unique mix of Afghani and OG Kush, stands out in the cannabis world for its deeply relaxing effects.

It's not just the effects that capture attention; it's also the irresistible blend of chocolate and coffee flavors, with that signature Kush twist, that makes it truly special.

Boasting a THC content around 20%, Bubba Kush wraps you in a comforting, enduring high, sprinkled with a light, euphoric mood. It's the ideal choice for anyone looking to kick back and melt away the stress of a long day.

6. Banana Kush

Banana Kush is one of those iconic California strains that lives up to its name. The buds give off a super sweet and fruity banana aroma with some earthy kush notes underneath.

The flavor definitely tastes like ripe bananas! The high is really nice - it's mellow and relaxing but with a little bit of a cerebral lift too. So it's great for just chilling with friends without knocking you out.

Banana Kush is unique with that tasty tropical fruit profile and balanced smooth high.

7. Master Kush

Master Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by Roberts on Growdiaries

Master Kush comes from impressive Himalayan heritage - a cross between Hindu Kush and Skunk #1. She's got that classic earthy, woody aroma you'd expect from kush strains, with a sweetness and some spice thrown in too.

Flavor-wise you pick up those earthy, peppery tastes with a touch of fruitiness. The high is super relaxing but in a really meditative way, gently releasing muscle tension and anxiety.

That's why Master Kush is a go-to for pain and stress relief. Her soothing effects really shine through.

8. Lithium OG Kush

Lithium OG Kush from WeedSeedsExpress grown by Zurban_Poisonia on Growdiaries

Lithium OG Kush is a match made in heaven for kush fans, crossing California OG Kush with Master Kush. You get this awesome mix of aromas from fuelly and kerosene notes to fruity citrus vibes.

Flavor-wise it's a mashup of zesty lemon and grapefruit tastes. The high is super euphoric and mood-lifting at first, getting your mind buzzing. Then it slowly fades into calming relaxation.

With that energizing yet mellow effect, it's a go-to strain whether you're kicking back for fun or need some medical relief. Lithium OG Kush really gives you the best of both worlds.

9. Triangle Kush

Triangle Kush comes out of the legendary Emerald Triangle in Florida and has some serious pedigree behind it - crossing Chemdawg, Hindu Kush, and Lemon Thai.

You can really smell that diesel heritage, with earthy kush and sweet bubblegum coming through too. The taste backs it up with those earthy, woody notes and a kick of sour citrus, spicy fuel flavors, and a hint of sweetness.

The high is really nice, giving you a relaxed sense of euphoria and clarity. It mellows you out without the fuzzy feeling, making Triangle Kush a top choice for unwinding and de-stressing.

10. Amnesia Kush

Amnesia Kush is definitely one of the more sativa-leaning kush strains out there, coming from crossing Amnesia Haze with OG Kush. You get this wild citrusy scent with some spicy vibes coming through.

Taste-wise it's sweet pine and fresh lemon flavors. The high creeps up on you and then - bam - huge wave of euphoria and energy, sparking creativity and focus. It starts out intense but then levels out into a calm, feel-good state.

Whether you're looking to treat something medically or just have a great recreational time, Amnesia Kush really delivers. That perfect mix of head and body effects makes it unique.