There are multiple origin stories about Purple Kush, also called Purple Hindu Kush, and no shortage of products on the market that claim its name.

According to Northern California’s Dark Heart Nursery, the strain originated in the Oaksterdam neighborhood of Oakland, Calif. The breeder and other online sources suggest it’s a cross of a Hindu Kush female pollinated by a Purple Afghani phenotype and a landrace cultivar from Afghanistan.

Afghani strains typically have sedative effects, which could explain why Purple Kush is known for its soothing, sleep-aiding properties. The strain is also named for its vibrant violet color, which is due to acidity levels, its anthocyanin (pigment) content and/or cooler temperatures where the plant is typically raised.