Guava is a sativa-leaning hybrid cannabis strain selected as a phenotype of Gelato, known for a fruity, gassy aroma and a talkative, energetic high. It belongs to the Cookies family of Bay Area genetics, though no specific breeder is documented for this cut. Leafly lists THC around 21%, with some dispensary batches reported near 25%.
Guava Strain at a Glance
| Type | Sativa-leaning hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Gua, sometimes sold as Guava Gelato |
| Lineage | Gelato (phenotype selection) |
| Breeder / origin | Not documented; a Gelato phenotype from the Cookies family of San Francisco Bay Area genetics |
| THC | 21–25% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Under 1% |
| Dominant terpenes | Limonene, Beta-caryophyllene, Linalool |
| Aroma and flavor | tropical fruit, guava, gas, apricot, tree fruit, tropical, pepper |
| Reported effects | talkative, focused, energetic |
| Best for | daytime use, social settings |
Where Guava Comes From
Leafly describes Guava as a Gelato phenotype, which places it in the Cookies family alongside Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GSC, the two strains behind Gelato. Leafly does not name a breeder, and we could not find a reliable account of who first selected it or when.
The name causes some confusion. Leafly also has a separate entry for Guava Gelato, described as a Sherbinskis Gelato phenotype with a creamy, tropical, more indica-forward profile, and some shelves use the two names interchangeably. Guava is not related to Guava Jelly. Leafly lists Guava Runtz and Grandi Guava among its offspring.
Guava Effects: What It Feels Like
Leafly characterizes Guava as mostly energizing and notes it has a reputation as a good strain to start the day with. Reviewers most often report feeling talkative, focused and energetic, which makes it a fit for errands, work sessions or social plans. At around 21 percent THC or more, newer consumers should start with a small amount.
Guava Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
Leafly describes a fruity and gassy aroma and flavor, with apricot, tree fruit and tropical as the top flavor tags, and one reviewer notes a peppery tropical taste. Limonene is the dominant terpene, followed by caryophyllene and linalool, which fits the citrusy fruit on top and the peppery edge underneath.
- Limonene: bright citrus, also found in lemon and orange peel
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
- Linalool: floral and lavender-like
Terpene levels vary from grower to grower and batch to batch, so check the lab label on the package. Learn more in our guide to cannabis terpenes.
Side Effects and How to Use Guava
Anxiety, dry mouth and dry eyes are the negatives Leafly reviewers mention most. Its energizing character means larger doses can feel racy, so pace yourself.
With Guava, as with any strain, a smaller dose usually avoids anxiety or grogginess. Our cannabis safety guide covers what to do if you take too much.
Strains Like Guava
- Gelato: the strain it was selected from
- Sunset Sherbet: a Gelato parent that adds fruit
- Gelato Runtz: another fruity Gelato-family hybrid
- Guava Jelly: a different strain with a similar fruit name
- Papaya: another tropical-fruit strain
Browse more sativa strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Sativa Strains to Explore
Harlequin · Hawaiian Haze · Hawaiian Snow · Guava Jelly · Green Lantern · Green Crack · All sativa strains
Where to Buy Guava
Dispensary menus change every week, and Guava may be sold under its own name, as a cross or as a pre-roll or vape. The fastest way to find it is to check store menus online before you go. In Spokane, browse Spokane dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Apex Cannabis Market Street and Sativa Sisters. In Chicago, browse Chicago dispensaries and check the menus at stores like UMI – Chicago and Market 96 – S Wells Street. You can also browse licensed dispensaries in every state we cover. Adults 21 and older can buy with a valid photo ID; see cannabis laws by state for purchase limits.
Guava FAQ
Is Guava indica or sativa?
Leafly lists Guava as a sativa-leaning hybrid with mostly energizing effects.
What is Guava a cross of?
It is a phenotype of Gelato rather than a new cross, so its genetics trace to Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GSC.
How strong is Guava?
Leafly lists THC around 21 percent, and some dispensary batches have been reported near 25 percent.
Is Guava the same as Guava Jelly?
No. Guava Jelly is a separate strain; Guava is a Gelato phenotype.
For adults 21+ in legal states. Strain information reflects breeder descriptions, lab data and user reports; effects vary by person and batch. Not medical advice.
