Goldust: The Golden Runtz Upgrade
Goldust: The Golden Runtz Upgrade
(Note: While commonly searched as "Gold Dust," the official breeder spelling is Goldust.)
Strain Overview
Type: Indica-Dominant Hybrid (60% Indica / 40% Sativa)
Breeder: Exotic Genetix
Lineage: Rainbow Runtz x Scotty 2 Hotty
Market Status: The "Shimmering Hybrid"; Goldust was a standout release from the 2022 Scotty 2 Hotty lineup. It was bred to take the wildly popular flavor profile of Rainbow Runtz (a Zkittlez/Gelato blend) and reinforce it with the yield, vigor, and heavy gas of the Scotty 2 Hotty. The result is a plant that truly earns its name—producing buds that are so heavily coated in amber-hued trichomes that they appear to be dusted in gold. It offers a sophisticated mix of tropical candy and industrial fuel.
THC Content: High (23% – 28%)
Dominant Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Myrcene
Key Effects: Euphoric Uplift, Creative Buzz, Physical Calm, "Gilded" Relaxation
Goldust is a treasure hunter's dream.
It bridges the gap between the "Candy" era and the "Gas" era. By doubling down on the Rainbow Chip lineage (present in both the mother and the father), Exotic Genetix created a strain that offers the best of both worlds: the sugary, fruity zest of Runtz and the savory, roasted fuel of Biscotti.
History and Lineage: A Rainbow Reunion
Goldust is a genetic masterpiece that layers similar genetics to lock in specific traits.
The Mother (Rainbow Runtz): A cross of Rainbow Chip x Runtz. This parent is famous for its intense tropical fruit flavor and colorful bag appeal. However, like many Runtz crosses, it can sometimes be a light yielder.
The Father (Scotty 2 Hotty): The Exotic Genetix stud (Biscotti x Rainbow Chip). As we know, this male adds density, heavy gas terpenes, and structural vigor.
The Synthesis: Notice the pattern? Rainbow Chip is on both sides of the family tree. This "line breeding" reinforces the vigor and resin production of the Rainbow Chip while allowing the Runtz and Biscotti flavors to dance together. The result is a plant that tastes like fruit candy dipped in diesel.
Terpene Profile: Tropical Gas
The aroma of Goldust is complex and layered. It doesn't smell like just one thing; it evolves as you break the bud.
Dominant Terpenes
Limonene (The Fruit): The dominant terpene. It provides a sharp tropical citrus and mango top note that hits the nose instantly.
Caryophyllene (The Fuel): Inherited from the Scotty father, this adds a heavy spicy pepper and diesel undertone that grounds the fruitiness.
Linalool (The Floral): Adds a subtle lavender and soap nuance that smooths out the chemical harshness.
Flavor Notes:
The Aroma: It is loud and vibrant. It smells of sugary fruit snacks, fresh pine, and heavy gasoline.
The Smoke: Thick and coating. It tastes of tropical punch on the inhale, followed by a savory biscotti/fuel flavor on the exhale.
Strain Effects: The Golden Hour
Goldust offers a balanced high that is perfect for late afternoons or early evenings (the "Golden Hour").
The Experience
The Shine: The high hits quickly with a cerebral sparkle. Mood is elevated, and stress dissolves into a happy haze.
The Flow: A wave of creative energy often follows. It is a great strain for art, music, or engaging conversation.
The Weight: As the high settles, the Indica influence creeps in. A warm physical relaxation spreads through the body, feeling like a heavy blanket.
The Glow: You are left in a state of euphoric contentment. You aren't necessarily asleep, but you are definitely "glowing" and relaxed.
Best For: Socializing, creative hobbies, stress relief, mild depression, and appetite stimulation.
Growing Goldust: The Resin Factory
Growers love Goldust because it fixes the yield issues often associated with Runtz strains.
Growth Structure
The Appearance: This is the selling point. The buds are incredibly frosty. The trichomes often take on a golden/amber hue early in the window, giving the plant a shimmering appearance against the purple foliage.
The Yield: Moderate to High. Thanks to the Scotty 2 Hotty father, the buds are dense and chunky, weighing far more than traditional Runtz cuts.
The Structure: It grows Medium-Tall. It is a vigorous plant that responds well to topping. It fills a canopy quickly.
The Time: It finishes flowering in 8 to 9 weeks.
Grower’s Tip: To maximize the "Gold" appearance, ensure your lighting spectrum is dialed in. This strain loves full-spectrum LED light. Also, keep the humidity low in late flower to protect the dense, trichome-laden buds from moisture issues.
Final Verdict: The Golden Runtz Upgrade
Goldust is a shining example of modern breeding. It takes the beloved tropical flavor of Rainbow Runtz and upgrades it with the power and yield of Scotty 2 Hotty. It offers a smoke that is sweet enough for the candy lovers but gassy enough for the fuel heads. If you are looking for a strain that looks like it belongs in a jewelry box and smokes like a champion, go for the Gold.
You should choose Goldust if:
You love Tropical/Gas combos.
You want "Bag Appeal" (Golden Trichomes).
You want a Balanced High.
You want Better Yields than Runtz.
Score: 9.4/10 (The Gilded Hybrid)