Every year, Leafly selects the best cannabis strains of the year based on its user data. If Jealousy had been elected in 2022, the year 2023 would have had the Permanent Marker, a variety that has spread like wildfire on the menus of American dispensaries.
Crowned Leafly's Strain of the Year, Permanent Marker's meteoric rise can be attributed to the combination of exceptional genetics, strategic marketing, and a dedicated community of growers and consumers.
From Jealousy to Permanent Marker
The Permanent Marker is not a simple flash in the pan: it actually draws its characteristics from Jealousy, Leafly's 2022 variety of the year.
Seed Junky Genetics, an important breeder of Los Angeles, refined Jealousy by incorporating varieties like Biscotti and Sherbert, aiming for larger, darker, more resinous buds with a distinct grape candy and gas aroma. The variety caught the attention of Doja Pak, who coined the name and launched a global marketing campaign in 2022, with cuttings retailing for $1,000 each.
As of 2023, the strain has proliferated across the country, with renowned cultivators such as LA Family Farms, CAM, Doja Pak, Torus, Skord, Freddy's Fuego, and Preferred Gardens, among others, contributing to its wide availability. The popularity of Permanent Marker has been enhanced by its ease of cultivation.
Unprecedented growth and popularity
Permanent Marker's surge in popularity is reflected in its explosive growth on dispensary menus. Starting with just 10 stores in August 2022, it quickly expanded to 587 stores by November 2023 out of Leafly's 8,000+ stores.
This growth has not been limited to dispensaries alone; Permanent Marker has climbed the web traffic ranks on Leafly, becoming one of the top 200 varieties nationally. The buzz around this strain has resulted in an increase in demand, with consumers actively seeking it out and dispensaries fighting to keep it in stock.
A bud of Permanent Marker
The Permanent Marker experience
The Permanent Marker consumption experience would be truly unique. As soon as the sachet is opened, its distinctive aroma, reminiscent of the scent of markers, permeates the environment. Described as a refined blend of grape candy, creamy berries and solvents, the strain captivates consumers with its complex flavor profile.
When it comes to its visual appeal, Permanent Marker boasts large, dark purple buds with orange pistils and a generous coating of white resin.
Power and effects
Permanent Marker lives up to its reputation as a potent strain, with a THC level of 25-30% and sometimes more according to American analysis criteria. The effects are very indica, providing a heavy and powerful high. Leafly reviews, which give it 4.8 out of 5 stars, highlight its superiority over other popular varieties like Lemon Cherry Gelato and Runtz.
While recognizing its potency, users are cautioned about potential side effects such as anxiety, dizziness, or pasty mouth. This strain is recommended for experienced users who can appreciate its intensity.
The History of the Permanent Marker
Seed Junky Genetics, the creator of Permanent Marker, has been pushing the boundaries of cannabis breeding since its inception in 2007. Co-founder JBeezy and his team embarked on a meticulous breeding process from 2019 to 2021 to create Permanent Marker. The selection process involved complex crossbreeding, with the goal of achieving the perfect balance between candy-like sweetness and carbonated undertones.
Doja Pak's role in marketing Permanent Marker was instrumental in its worldwide recognition. The release of $1,000 clones, a massive marketing wave in 2022, and the strategic selection of the strain name have contributed to its wide success.
What future for the Permanent Marker?
Permanent Marker's impact goes beyond its recognition as Strain of the Year. It disrupted the traditional model of sole ownership, with Seed Junky choosing to distribute $1,000 clones around the world, creating a network of growers rather than a single owner. The strain's success is evident, as evidenced by its multiple appearances on High Times review lists and its presence in both legal and illegal markets.
The future looks bright for Permanent Marker, with Seed Junky introducing feminized seeds in May 2023, sparking a new wave of growth and innovation. The strain has already inspired crosses like Permanent Marker x Push Pop, indicating its influence on future genetic exploration.
The next wave: Gello Shotz, Pineapple, Mango, Bubblegum
While Permanent Marker continues to dominate, Seed Junky Genetics is not resting on its laurels. Marker's next batch promises some exciting variations, including crosses of Gello Shotz, Pineapple, Mango and Bubble Gum. These crosses are expected to bring new flavors, increased yield and equally high THC content, which will keep Permanent Marker's momentum alive.
