Panama Red is a sativa cannabis strain from Panama, famous since the late 1960s for fast, intense effects that border on psychedelic. Leafly describes it as a cross of Panama and Colombia genetics; the Reeferman Seeds credit it lists likely refers to a modern seed version, since the original strain predates that breeder. Reported THC runs about 16% to 22%, and the plant takes at least 11 weeks to flower.
Panama Red Strain at a Glance
| Type | Sativa |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Red, Pam |
| Lineage | Panama × Colombia |
| Breeder / origin | Panamanian landrace; modern seed versions sold by breeders such as Reeferman Seeds |
| THC | 16–22% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Not listed |
| Dominant terpenes | Myrcene, Pinene, Limonene |
| Aroma and flavor | tea, pepper, earthy, grapefruit, citrus, spicy, tropical |
| Reported effects | energetic, talkative, happy, euphoric |
| Best for | daytime use, socializing, nostalgia seekers |
| Flowering time | At least 11 weeks |
Where Panama Red Comes From
Panama Red rose to fame in the late 1960s, according to Leafly, thanks to its speedy and intense effects. Growers later moved on to faster-flowering, higher-yielding strains, and the old Panama Red fell out of favor.
Leafly describes it as a cross of Panama and Colombia genetics and names Compton Creek and Pan Jam as offspring. The breeder credit seems to fit a modern version more than the original, and we could not confirm how the two relate. Because so many different cuts carry this name, expect variation.
Panama Red Effects: What It Feels Like
Leafly readers report energetic, talkative and happy effects, with creative, euphoric and focused also mentioned. AllBud describes euphoria, happiness and sociability, in a cerebral high.
That makes it a classic daytime choice for conversation, music or a long walk. The old-school reputation is for an intense, sometimes psychedelic-feeling rush, so newer consumers should take small amounts.
Panama Red Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
Leafly lists tea, pepper and earthy flavors, with tropical also tagged. One reviewer describes a citrusy, grapefruit scent in the best phenotypes. AllBud lists citrus, grapefruit, herbal, spicy, sweet and tropical flavors and pungent, earthy, woody aromas.
Myrcene leads the terpene profile on Leafly, followed by pinene and limonene.
- Myrcene: earthy, musky and herbal, also found in mango and hops
- Pinene: fresh pine, also found in pine needles and rosemary
- Limonene: bright citrus, also found in lemon and orange peel
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 Panama Red
Reported side effects are dry eyes, dry mouth and headache, and AllBud reviewers mention some paranoia. A cautious dose is a good idea with any sativa this energetic.
With Panama Red, 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.
Do People Use Panama Red for Medical Reasons?
Leafly readers cite depression, stress and anxiety. AllBud lists ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain, fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches and migraines. These are user and editorial claims, not medical evidence.
These are user reports, not clinical findings. For what research actually supports, see our cannabis health and research section, and talk to your doctor before using cannabis for a health condition.
Growing Panama Red
- Flowering: At least 11 weeks
Leafly notes a flowering time of at least 11 weeks. That long window is the main reason it fell out of favor with commercial growers. No other cultivation details were available, and a long flowering sativa can be risky in wet Pacific Northwest autumns, so outdoor growers there often need a greenhouse.
Home-grow rules depend on the state: adults can grow at home in states such as California (six plants per residence), Michigan (12 per residence) and Oregon (four per household), while Washington and Illinois allow home growing only for registered medical patients. Check your state in our cannabis laws by state guide before you plant anything.
Strains Like Panama Red
- Acapulco Gold: another vintage landrace-style sativa
- Maui Wowie: an old-school tropical sativa
- Durban Poison: a classic energetic sativa
- Hawaiian Haze: a sativa with similar uplifting traits
Browse more sativa strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Sativa Strains to Explore
Peachy Mack · Phantom Cookies · Pina Colada · Orange Runtz · Orange Poison · Orange Creamsicle · All sativa strains
Where to Buy Panama Red
Dispensary menus change every week, and Panama Red 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 Tacoma, browse Tacoma dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Commencement Bay Cannabis Red and Zips Cannabis on 6th Ave. In Salem, browse Salem dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Hall of Strains and Truth Dispensary Center St. 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.
Panama Red FAQ
Is Panama Red indica or sativa?
Panama Red is a sativa. AllBud lists it as 100% sativa.
Where does Panama Red come from?
It originated in Panama and became popular in the late 1960s, according to Leafly.
How strong is Panama Red?
AllBud lists THC at about 16–22% and Leafly lists 17%.
How long does Panama Red take to flower?
Leafly says at least 11 weeks.
What does Panama Red taste like?
Earthy and spicy with tea, citrus and grapefruit notes.
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.