SPK is a sativa-dominant hybrid cannabis strain bred by Dark Heart Nursery from Sour Diesel and Candyland, known for a diesel and sweet earth aroma and a happy, focused high. It is also sold as Sour Patch Kids and Sour Patch. Leafly lists THC at about 20%, with some reviewers reporting batches near 29%.
SPK Strain at a Glance
| Type | Sativa-dominant hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Sour Patch Kids, Sour Patch |
| Lineage | Sour Diesel × Candyland |
| Breeder / origin | Dark Heart Nursery |
| THC | 20–29% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Not reported |
| Dominant terpenes | Beta-caryophyllene, Limonene, Humulene |
| Aroma and flavor | diesel, sweet earth, apricot, tropical |
| Reported effects | tingly, happy, focused, uplifted |
| Best for | daytime use, staying active |
Where SPK Comes From
Leafly credits Dark Heart Nursery and lists the cross as Sour Diesel and Candyland. AllBud has a page but no lineage or breeder, so I found only one source for those details and rate confidence accordingly. The name SPK is short for Sour Patch Kids, one of its aliases.
Leafly says it grows like Candyland, with golden stigmas and purple hues in dense, frosty foliage. Candyland and Sour Patch Kiss are both on this site, though Sour Patch Kiss is a separate strain and should not be confused with SPK.
SPK Effects: What It Feels Like
Leafly reviewers list tingly, happy and focused as the top effects, and the page describes the overall effect as energizing and uplifting. Some reviewers found it more indica-like, so batches differ. It suits daytime use. Reported THC reaches the high 20s in one review, so go slowly.
SPK Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
Leafly describes the aroma as diesel and sweet earth, and lists apricot, tropical and diesel as flavors. Caryophyllene is the most abundant terpene on Leafly, followed by limonene and humulene.
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
- Limonene: bright citrus, also found in lemon and orange peel
- Humulene: woody and hoppy, also found in hops and basil
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 SPK
Dizziness, dry mouth and paranoia are the most commonly reported negatives, and one review mentions dry eyes.
With SPK, 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 SPK for Medical Reasons?
Leafly notes people use it for stress and depression, based on user reports. These are not medical 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.
Strains Like SPK
- Sour Diesel: the diesel parent
- Candyland: the sweeter, sativa-leaning parent
- Sour Patch Kiss: a similarly named sour hybrid, but a different strain
- Tangie: a bright, tropical sativa-leaner
Browse more sativa strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
Where to Buy SPK in Washington and Oregon
Dispensary menus change every week, and SPK 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 Vancouver, browse Vancouver dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Fire & Frost Cannabis and High 5 Cannabis. In Eugene, browse Eugene dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Hive Cannabis Connect by Echo Electuary and Oregon Cannabis Mart Goshen. You can also browse every licensed store in Washington and Oregon. Adults 21 and older can buy with a valid photo ID; see cannabis laws by state for purchase limits.
SPK FAQ
Is SPK indica or sativa?
SPK is a sativa-dominant hybrid, though some reviewers find it more indica-like.
What does SPK stand for?
Sour Patch Kids, one of its alternate names.
What is SPK a cross of?
Sour Diesel and Candyland, per Leafly.
Who bred SPK?
Dark Heart Nursery, per Leafly.
What does SPK taste like?
Diesel with apricot, tropical and sweet earth 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.
