The Leaf Index
Vol. IA field guide to cannabis cultivarsleafly.cc
No. 1286Indica

Kandahar Purple by The Landrace Team

Afghan Indica

Kandahar Purple is a predominantly indica cultivar originating from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan. Developed by The Landrace Team, this strain is celebrated for its resin production and distinctive purple coloration, which can appear even without extreme cold. It represents a preserved expression of traditional Afghan cannabis genetics.

EffectsRelaxing
May help withStress
AromaBerryChocolateCoffeeEarthyLavenderOrangePepperyPine

Appearance

Kandahar Purple typically grows into a compact, stocky plant with dense foliage and thick branches, reaching heights of 0.8 to 1.2 meters indoors. Its leaves are broad, characteristic of Afghan indicas, and the flowers form tight, dense colas. The strain is known for its vibrant purple hues, which can manifest as plum or deep eggplant colors in the calyxes and striping on sugar leaves, often contrasted by amber-orange pistils. Heavy trichome coverage gives the buds a frosted appearance.

Aroma & Flavor

The aroma profile of Kandahar Purple is complex, often described as earthy with notes of lavender and hints of berry. Upon consumption, flavors can include chocolate, coffee, and a peppery or piney undertone, rounded out by a general earthiness.

Effects

As a predominantly indica strain, Kandahar Purple is associated with relaxing effects. While specific details are based on community reports rather than formal studies, it is generally understood to promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Terpenes & Cannabinoids

While specific cannabinoid percentages can vary, Kandahar Purple typically tests between 15-25% THC with less than 1% CBD. The terpene profile is noted to include Caryophyllene, Pinene, and Humulene, contributing to its aromatic and potential therapeutic qualities.

Growing Characteristics

Kandahar Purple is adapted to hot, dry climates and generally finishes flowering within 7 to 9 weeks indoors, with outdoor harvests typically occurring in late September to early October. It is known for its resinous flowers, making it suitable for hash production, and exhibits good resistance to pests and diseases due to its landrace heritage. Yields are considered solid, with indoor potential around 400-550 g/m² and outdoor plants capable of producing 400-800 g each.

Origins and Lineage

Kandahar Purple originates from the Kandahar region of Afghanistan, a historical center for resin-rich, broadleaf indica cannabis. The Landrace Team has preserved and stabilized this cultivar, drawing from local Afghan genetics to maintain its authentic characteristics, including its broadleaf structure, heavy resin production, and distinctive purple coloration. It is considered a landrace-derived selection, showcasing the genetic diversity typical of such populations.

Frequently asked questions

What type of cannabis is Kandahar Purple?
Kandahar Purple is predominantly an indica strain.
What are the typical THC and CBD levels?
THC content ranges from 15-25%, while CBD is typically less than 1%.
What contributes to its purple color?
The purple coloration is due to anthocyanin expression, influenced by genetics and potentially environmental factors like temperature swings, though it is embedded in the genetic background and not solely a cold-stress artifact.
Is Kandahar Purple good for making hash?
Yes, Kandahar Purple is known for its heavy resin production and trichome morphology, making it well-suited for dry sift and other hash-making techniques.