Grape Ape: Going Bananas For Indica
Grape Ape Strain Review
If there is one strain that proves "purple" is a flavor, not just a color, it’s Grape Ape.
While many strains claim to have a berry profile, Grape Ape is unapologetic about it. It smells like artificial grape soda, grows massive "gorilla-sized" colas, and hits with the force of a sedative freight train. This is not a subtle strain. It is a loud, colorful, and heavy Indica that has earned its spot in the Hall of Fame.
In this definitive review, we break down the elite genetics, the carefree high, and why this strain remains the king of the "Purple" family.
The Lineage: A Three-Way Cross of Legends
Grape Ape is the result of a genetic ménage à trois between three absolute titans of the cannabis world. It was bred by Apothecary Genetics (and popularized by Barney’s Farm) to maximize yield and flavor.
The lineage includes:
Mendocino Purps: The source of the deep violet coloration and berry flavor.
Skunk #1: Adds the pungency and the high-yield structure.
Afghani: The pure landrace Indica that provides the heavy resin production and the "knockout" body stone.
Note: This specific combination creates a plant that is incredibly stable, resisting the molding issues that plague many other dense purple strains.
Appearance and Aroma: Sensory Overload
The name "Grape Ape" refers to two things: the smell and the size. Visually, this strain is stunning. The buds grow in dense, chunky clusters that are often larger than a clenched fist. The leaves are a dark, moody purple—sometimes appearing black—wrapped in copper-colored pistils and a sticky layer of trichomes.
The Terpene Profile Crack a nugget open, and you are hit with a wave of Myrcene and Pinene.
The Smell: Distinctly grape-like, similar to a grape Jolly Rancher or grape soda, with a dank, skunky undertone.
The Taste: Sweet, fruity, and hash-like on the exhale. It is one of the smoothest smokes on the market, rarely causing coughing fits despite its potency.
The Effects: The "Carefree" Coma
Grape Ape is a pure Indica experience (approx. 90% Indica).
The high is best described as "heavy but happy." Unlike some Indicas that make you broody or confused, Grape Ape provides a sense of mental clarity wrapped in a carefree euphoria. However, your body will feel like it weighs 500 pounds.
Medical Applications:
Stress & Anxiety: This is the ultimate "unwind" strain. It shuts off the racing thoughts immediately.
Muscle Spasms: Thanks to the Afghani influence, it is excellent for physical tension.
Insomnia: While it starts euphoric, the comedown is a guaranteed ticket to sleep.
Warning: This is a "couch-lock" strain. Do not smoke this if you have a to-do list.
Grow Guide: Short, Stout, and Purple
Grape Ape is a favorite among growers because it is relatively easy to manage, though it requires some specific care to reach its full potential.
Structure: True to its Indica roots, it grows short and bushy. You will need to prune the lower fan leaves heavily to ensure airflow reaches the dense center buds.
Flowering Time: 7–8 Weeks (Very Fast).
The "Purple" Hack: To bring out the deep violet colors, drop the temperature in your grow room by 10–15 degrees during the night cycle in the final weeks of flowering.
The Verdict
Grape Ape is a mandatory experience for Indica lovers. It combines the shelf appeal of a boutique exotic with the reliability of an old-school landrace. If you want a strain that tastes exactly how it smells and puts you down for a full 8 hours of sleep, accept no substitutes.