Ultraviolet
Lavender × Ruderalis × OG Kush × Purple
Ultraviolet is an indica-dominant strain recognized for its striking purple coloration and rich aromatic profile. It has emerged in various forms, including photoperiod and autoflower varieties, often appreciated for its visual appeal and nuanced sensory experience.
Appearance
Ultraviolet typically produces medium-dense, conical buds characterized by pronounced calyx stacking and tight internodes. Flowers often display a gradient of colors, ranging from olive green bases to streaks of lavender and deep purple, particularly along the sugar leaves and outer calyxes. By late bloom, the buds become heavily coated in trichomes, giving them a frosted appearance.
The visual appeal is enhanced by vibrant pistils, which can range from bright tangerine to copper. Well-cultivated batches exhibit minimal leaf material on the bud surface, contributing to a sleek, resinous look that holds up well post-trim and after drying and curing.
Aroma & Flavor
The aroma of Ultraviolet can vary based on its lineage. Phenotypes with Lavender ancestry often present sweet floral top notes, dried herbs, and berry scents, sometimes evoking blueberry jam or lilac with a peppery undertone. Conversely, OG-leaning varieties tend to offer a sharper profile featuring lemon-lime, pine, and gasoline notes, occasionally complemented by grape or blackcurrant nuances.
Flavor closely mirrors the aroma when the flower is properly dried and cured. Consumers can expect a sweet introduction with berry and lavender notes, or a zesty citrus-diesel profile, both typically anchored by a spicy, earthy base. A faint candied finish may be noticeable on the exhale after a suitable curing period.
Effects
Ultraviolet is generally associated with calming and mood-elevating effects. Consumers often report feeling a sense of happiness and tranquility, making it a suitable choice for unwinding. The indica-dominant nature suggests a potential for relaxation without necessarily inducing heavy sedation.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
While specific terpene profiles vary, common compounds found in Ultraviolet include Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Pinene, and Humulene. These contribute to the strain's complex aroma and flavor characteristics. The cannabinoid content typically ranges from 15-25% THC, with CBD levels usually below 1%. Some autoflower variants may exhibit slightly higher CBD due to ruderalis influence.
Growing
Growing Ultraviolet can involve different approaches depending on whether it is a photoperiod or autoflower variant. European auto versions, often bred for rapid cycles, may finish in 9 to 11 weeks from sprout. Photoperiod OG types generally require 8 to 10 weeks of flowering after a conventional vegetative period. Environmental factors, such as cooler night temperatures (10-15°F lower than daytime), can intensify the purple pigmentation in the final three to four weeks of bloom.
The strain is known for its tendency towards purple pigment expression and a resin-rich finish. Growers aiming to maximize color should pay attention to temperature differentials during the late flowering stage. Optimal nutrition and high light intensity can also enhance trichome density and overall resin production.
Origins & Lineage
The name Ultraviolet has been applied to multiple cannabis releases by various breeders, leading to diverse genetic backgrounds. Early attention in the 2010s came from European seed houses introducing purple-leaning autoflowers, often created by crossing a purple photoperiod strain like Lavender with a ruderalis donor. Simultaneously, West Coast breeders developed UltraViolet OG, frequently drawing from the OG Kush family and sometimes incorporating Purple or Lavender genetics to enhance coloration.
Due to the varied breeding history, lineage can differ significantly. European autos often combine Lavender with ruderalis, while US-based UltraViolet OG might stem from OG Kush with added purple influences. Growers are advised to confirm the specific lineage with their seed or clone supplier, as this impacts chemotype and growth traits.