The Gelato marijuana strain has become one of the most popular and beloved cannabis strains in Washington, DC. While it has established itself as a modern classic behind newer strains, it is still a popular and well-loved variety for cannabis smokers.
When it first arrived on the scene, Gelato was part of a new wave of hybrid marijuana strains that revolutionized the cannabis market. Prior to that, there were mainly two options- indica or sativa. There were some hybrids like Northern Lights, but they were more closely derived from landrace cannabis varieties.
This new wave of hybrid genetics started to do something new. Breeders were hybridizing hybrid strains, backcrossing genetics, and selectively breeding them to create extremely unique (and sometimes unusual) flavor profiles.
These newer hybrids also offered more than a 50:50 ratio of indica to sativa because of the intricate breeding process. Along with Girl Scout Cookies, Blue Dream, and many others, the Gelato marijuana strain has been part of an amazing genetic revolution in the cannabis industry.
How Does It Taste?
The Gelato marijuana strain offers very enjoyable flavors that have been compared to the Italian ice cream that gave it its name. It is a sweet variety with subtle notes of fruit, vanilla, and mint. Cannabis flavor and aromas come from molecules called terpenes. Different terpenes impart different flavors which are influenced by the ratios of terpenes present and overall amount of terpenes present. So, if you get Gelato that was poorly grown, it may not have much flavor due to poor growing conditions that inhibited terpene production.
When marijuana is grown well, you’ll notice it is very sticky and has white crystals that give off strong aromas and high terpene content. The Gelato terpene profile features caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene. On their own, caryophyllene is peppery, limonene is citrusy, and humulene is hoppy. However, in combination with each other and with Gelato’s minor terpenes, you get a flavor profile that is sweet.
Gelato Marijuana Strain Effects, Potency, and More…

Gelato buds have a deep green color that often has hints of purple and bright orange pistils. Its nugs tend to be denser with tightly packed rosettes of leaflets. Gelato marijuana buds are sticky and very resinous but despite its rich terpene content, it tends not to look too “frosty.”
Novice cannabis users should be aware that Gelato is a very strong marijuana strain. If you are not an experienced cannabis user, take caution and start with just a small amount so you don’t become overwhelmed. That said, Gelato is 55% indica and 45% sativa. While some growers can easily get it to produce over 20% THC, this balanced genetic basis means that it is not as sedative as an indica and not buzzy like a sativa.
Most users report that the Gelato strain’s effects are “heady” as opposed to a “body high.” When used in moderation, Gelato can provide a very relaxing experience that won’t likely put you to sleep. However, it also will not keep you awake if you use it in the evening. While individual experiences will vary, Gelato users report effects like euphoria, creativity, relaxation, and uplifting sensations. Most users also report that the effects of the Gelato marijuana strain are fast acting.
Gelato 33 vs Larry Bird Cannabis Strain
To explain Gelato 33 vs Larry Bird, a moment of science is needed. A “phenotype” is a variety of a plant that exhibits distinctly unique features. Plants with the same genotype (genetic composition) can produce different phenotypes (appearances, flavors, potency) based on which genes are expressed. Selective breeding can be used to then isolate and preserve a particular phenotype.
This is the case with Gelato 33. Gelato 33 is actually the 33rd phenotype of the strain. It is also called Larry Bird because that was the famous basketball player’s jersey number.
Gelato Strain Genetics
Gelato is a cross between Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies that was named for its unique flavor which is similar to the frozen treat. Gelato was bred by San Francisco-based Cookie Fam Genetics. Gelato #42 is the most commonly grown phenotype that you’ll usually find in dispensaries. You might also find Gelato #3, Gelato #33, Gelato #41, and Gelato #45, which are less common but share the same genetic makeup.
Get the Best Marijuana Flower in DC

If you are looking for DC weed gifts that are convenient and competitively priced, start shopping Sugar Rays today! Sugar Rays DC is an I-71 compliant delivery service that allows you to easily place orders online and get weed delivery straight to your door. Purchase a collector card and get a Gelato cannabis gift.
Best Ways to Enjoy Marijuana Flowers
It is very hard to experience the full flavor of a cannabis flower when smoking it in a joint, pipe, or bong. Sometimes you can detect flavor if you hold the smoke in the back of your mouth and exhale slowly.
However, this skill can be tricky. If you really want to enjoy the flavor, a dry herb vape is the best way to smoke marijuana flower.
Handheld dry herb vapes have become very popular, but table top dry herb vapes are the best since they have temperature control that you can adjust. Flower that is dry smokes best at lower temperatures, but flower that is moister can smoke better at higher temperatures.
Not a Fan of the Gelato Strain? Try These Top Weed Strains
If you’re not feeling Gelato, Sugar Rays has many other cannabis flower gifts to choose from. Here are a couple of other varieties to consider when placing your order:
Chocolate Diesel Marijuana Strain
Looking for an energizing sativa strain? Chocolate Diesel is great for sativa-lovers. It is a cross of Sour Diesel and Chocolate Thai that offers earthy, gassy, and chocolate flavors. Its great for daytime use to inspire creativity and focus.
Big Bud OG Marijuana StrainIf you love a robust indica with a powerful body high, Big Bud OG has you covered. These densely packed buds are a three-way cross of Afghani, Northern Lights, and Skunk #1 (or Haze, it has been re-bred). Its dank flavor carries pleasant hints of fruit, sweetness, and spice. Big Bud OG is ideal for nighttime use and offers deep relaxation.