Purple Urkle is an indica-dominant cannabis strain from California, known for deep purple buds, a grape and berry flavor, and heavy relaxation. Its lineage is debated, with Leafly describing it as possibly a select phenotype of Mendocino Purps. THC usually falls between about 18% and 21%.
Purple Urkle Strain at a Glance
| Type | Indica-dominant hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Purple Urple, Urkle |
| Lineage | Mendocino Purps |
| Breeder / origin | Not documented; California origin |
| THC | 18–21% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Under 1% |
| Dominant terpenes | Myrcene, Pinene, Beta-caryophyllene |
| Aroma and flavor | grape, berry, skunk, plum |
| Reported effects | relaxed, sleepy, hungry, euphoric |
| Best for | evening use, bedtime, unwinding |
| Flowering time | 8–9 weeks |
Where Purple Urkle Comes From
Purple Urkle is a California strain, and its origin is murky. Leafly describes it as possibly a select phenotype of Mendocino Purps, and lists Orange Sherbert and Gobbstopper among its offspring. AllBud says it dates to the late 1980s but also notes that one reviewer disputes that and any connection to Granddaddy Purple.
A breeder is not clearly documented and the story is mostly word of mouth. Expect spelling variations in listings.
Purple Urkle Effects: What It Feels Like
Most reports describe quick relaxation that settles into the body, followed by sleepiness and a strong appetite. Leafly readers most often report feeling sleepy, relaxed and hungry.
It is an evening strain for most people. The head effects are mild and short before the body takes over.
Purple Urkle Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
Purple Urkle smells like grape and berry with a skunky undertone. The flavor leans on grape and plum, with a sweet, earthy finish.
Myrcene leads, followed by pinene and caryophyllene in Leafly’s data.
- Myrcene: earthy, musky and herbal, also found in mango and hops
- Pinene: fresh pine, also found in pine needles and rosemary
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
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 Purple Urkle
Dry mouth and dry eyes are the most common side effects, with dizziness reported by some. The sedation can be strong, so avoid driving after use.
With Purple Urkle, 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 Purple Urkle for Medical Reasons?
Readers commonly mention stress, trouble sleeping and anxiety. These are self-reports, not clinical claims.
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 Purple Urkle
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Flowering: 8–9 weeks
- Yield: Medium
- Height: Short and bushy
- Environment: Better indoors
AllBud describes a shorter, thicker, bushier plant that does best indoors. Purple coloring tends to show up with cool nights late in flower. Compact, dense buds can hold moisture, so keep airflow high, especially in wet Pacific Northwest autumns.
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 Purple Urkle
- Granddaddy Purple: another classic purple indica often discussed alongside Urkle
- Purple Kush: a deep purple indica with similar sedation
- Purple Punch: a grape-forward purple strain
- Bubba Kush: a heavy, relaxing indica
- Northern Lights: a classic sleepy indica
Browse more indica strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Indica Strains to Explore
Purple Zkittlez · Querkle · Rebel Cookies · Purple Swish · Purple Punch · Purple Passion · All indica strains
Where to Buy Purple Urkle
Dispensary menus change every week, and Purple Urkle 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 San Jose, browse San Jose dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Urbn Leaf and 10th Street Cannabis. In Chicago, browse Chicago dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Dr Greenthumb’s Chicago and Verilife – Chicago River North. 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.
Purple Urkle FAQ
Is Purple Urkle indica or sativa?
It is an indica-dominant strain. Leafly classifies it as indica, and AllBud lists it as about 70% indica.
What is Purple Urkle a cross of?
Its genetics are disputed. Leafly lists Mendocino Purps as a parent and says it may be a select phenotype of it.
How strong is Purple Urkle?
Leafly lists about 19% THC and AllBud says 18% to 21%. Some dispensary listings run lower.
What does Purple Urkle taste like?
Grape, plum and berry with a skunky undertone.
Is Purple Urkle good for sleep?
Many people use it in the evening because it tends to be sleepy and relaxing.
Who bred Purple Urkle?
No breeder is clearly documented. It is a California strain with a debated origin.
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.
