Cannabis enthusiasts often marvel at the vibrant array of colors that different types of weeds can exhibit. However, when it comes to a strange occurrence—known as "bleeding purple," wherein the greenness in a joint suddenly transforms into a rich purple—it can be quite puzzling. So, what is causing this striking color change in water? Let's explore the possible science behind this phenomenon, as well as its implications for both cultivation and consumption.
The Science Behind the Purple Color
The primary reason weeds appear purple is due to the presence of pigments calledAnthocyanins. These water-soluble compounds, which are part of the flavonoid family, can give cannabis a range of colors, including red, blue, and eventually black. The intensity of the color depended on factors such as solution pH, temperature, exposure to light, and the plant's genetic composition.
When cannabis plants enter the flowering period, they begin to produceAnthocyanins, which act as a protective measure against environmental stress. As the plants prepare to flower and produce seeds, the production of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives plants their green color, slows down and eventually stops. The pigments beneath the chlorophyll become more visible, resulting in the prominent purple coloration often observed in the latter stages of the growth cycle.
Environmental Influences
While genetics plays a large role in the formation of purple pigments, other factors can influence the intensity of this color change. For instance, colder temperatures, particularly during the flowering period, can enhance the production ofAnthocyanins and contribute to the purple coloration. Maintaining the right balance of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, can also impact the vibrancy of the purple colors in the plant.
Moreover, changes in light exposure during the flowering period can accentuate or diminish the purple pigmentation. Some strains are more inclined to develop purple hues under cold stress, while others appear more pink or red when illuminated by appropriate lighting.
Bleeding Purple in Water
When we speak of "bleeding purple," we are referring to the process where the anthocyanin-containing leaves or buds release their color into nearby water, creating a visually stunning effect. This phenomenon can occur due to the gentle mixing of the water with the pigments from the cannabis, particularly when the water is agitated or allowed to stand for some time. The resulting purple color in the water may mimic the vibrant pigmentation in the plant.
Can You Force a Purple Flower
Despite the allure of producing a purple-flowering plant, forcing the process often leads to lower quality flowers and can potentially harm the plant. Over-stressing a plant to push out more purple pigments can draw energy away from key growth areas and result in smaller, less productive plants. While some growlers may experiment with various techniques, the consensus among experienced cultivators is that healthier happier plants are more likely to produce higher-quality flowers.
##, the purple color in weeds is primarily due to the natural presence of anthocyanins and exposure to environmental stress during the flowering period. While certain strains may exhibit purple pigments more easily under specific conditions, the process of converting chlorophyll-pink flowers to fully mature purple fruits is generally not adjustable. Additionally, forcing the plant to become purple using any method other than growing plants with a predisposition for this color can potentially harm the plant and produce lower quality results.
