Zkittlez is an indica-dominant cannabis strain usually described as a cross of Grape Ape and Grapefruit, known for a sweet, tropical-candy flavor and a calm, happy high. The Terp Hogz crew and 3rd Gen Family helped introduce it. Typical THC is about 15% to 23%.
Zkittlez Strain at a Glance
| Type | Indica-dominant hybrid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Skittlez, Original Z |
| Lineage | Grape Ape × Grapefruit |
| Breeder / origin | Terp Hogz with 3rd Gen Family (California) |
| THC | 15–23% (typical lab range) |
| CBD | Under 1% |
| Dominant terpenes | Beta-caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool |
| Aroma and flavor | tropical fruit, grape, citrus, sweet, fruity candy, tropical |
| Reported effects | relaxed, happy, calm, focused |
| Best for | evening use, stress relief, unwinding |
| Flowering time | 8–9 weeks |
Where Zkittlez Comes From
Zkittlez is typically said to come from Grape Ape and Grapefruit, sometimes with an undisclosed third strain in the mix. Because the breeders have kept details private, the pedigree is one of the less documented among popular strains. An origin story involving a grower nicknamed Gas Station Bob circulates but is anecdotal.
The Terp Hogz team, with help from 3rd Gen Family, grew the strain, entered it in competitions and used it for crosses. Write-ups credit Zkittlez with a first-place Best Indica result at both the 2015 Cannabis Cups in San Francisco and Michigan, and a 2016 Emerald Cup win for the original cut. Those results come from secondary sources.
The candy name is a nod to Skittles, and the flavor matches. Zkittlez is also a parent of Runtz and many other modern strains.
Zkittlez Effects: What It Feels Like
Zkittlez has a calm, mood-lifting effect that stays reasonably clear for the first hour. Many people describe a warm, happy sense of ease, a quiet head and a loose body, without being knocked flat at lower doses.
It works well in the evening for relaxing, eating, watching something or winding down from a stressful day. Larger doses can be sleepy. It is rarely described as racy.
Zkittlez Terpenes, Aroma and Flavor
The aroma is sweet and fruity, often compared to candy, with tropical, grape and citrus notes. The flavor is smooth, sweet and candy-like on the inhale, with a mellow fruity finish.
Terpene results vary, but beta-caryophyllene, limonene and linalool appear often. Caryophyllene gives a faint spice, limonene the citrus lift and linalool a floral, lavender-like softness. Check the lab label for the specific batch.
- Beta-caryophyllene: peppery and spicy, also found in black pepper and cloves
- Limonene: bright citrus, also found in lemon and orange peel
- 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 Zkittlez
Dry mouth and dry eyes are the most common effects. Some people feel drowsy or slow, and a large dose can cause dizziness or a foggy head. Start low, drink water and avoid driving.
If you are new to Zkittlez, start with one small inhalation or 2.5 mg in an edible and wait before taking more; see our dosing guide.
Do People Use Zkittlez for Medical Reasons?
Users often mention Zkittlez for stress, low mood and trouble winding down, because it tends to relax without being heavy. These are anecdotal reports, and anyone with a health concern should consult a doctor.
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 Zkittlez
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Flowering: 8–9 weeks
- Yield: Medium
- Height: Medium
- Environment: Indoor or greenhouse preferred
Zkittlez is a medium-height plant that flowers in about eight to nine weeks. It produces dense colorful buds, which makes it better suited to indoor rooms or greenhouses than open fields in a rainy Pacific Northwest fall. Control humidity during flower and keep airflow strong to avoid bud rot.
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 Zkittlez
- Runtz: a famous descendant with a Gelato twist
- Grape Ape: the grape-heavy parent
- Purple Zkittlez: a purple-leaning Zkittlez relative
- Sour Zkittlez: a tangier Zkittlez cross
- Zkittlez Cake: a sweeter Zkittlez cross
- Gelato: the other Runtz parent, creamy and fruity
Browse more indica strains, the full strain directory, or our guide to cannabis strains.
More Indica Strains to Explore
Zushi · 818 OG · 9 Pound Hammer · Zkittlez Cake · Yoda OG · Yellow Zushi · All indica strains
Where to Buy Zkittlez
Dispensary menus change every week, and Zkittlez 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 Grand Rapids, browse Grand Rapids dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Cloud Cannabis Company (621 Fulton W St) and Lume Cannabis (4162 Eastern Ave SE). In Chicago, browse Chicago dispensaries and check the menus at stores like Market 96 – S Wells Street and Ivy Hall – Damen. 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.
Zkittlez FAQ
Is Zkittlez indica or sativa?
Zkittlez is an indica-dominant hybrid. Its effects lean calming and mood lifting.
What is Zkittlez a cross of?
Grape Ape and Grapefruit, according to the common account. A third parent is sometimes mentioned and has not been confirmed.
How strong is Zkittlez?
Typical THC is about 15% to 23%, which is moderate to strong.
What does Zkittlez taste like?
Sweet fruity candy with grape, tropical and citrus notes.
Who bred Zkittlez?
Terp Hogz with 3rd Gen Family are credited with introducing it. The full breeding details are not public.
Is Zkittlez good for sleep?
It can be in larger doses or in the evening, since it tends to be relaxing. Smaller doses are often described as calm but clear.
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.
