Pacific Stone Grown

Gelato Strain: Everything You Need to Know About its Genetics, Effects, and THC Content

When you hear “gelato,” the first thing you might think of is a delicious treat. And that’s certainly the case for the Gelato cannabis strain. Here’s what you need to know about this tasty dessert cannabis strain.

Written By: The Pacific Stone Editorial Team
Date Published: January 4, 2024

Gelato strain

Gelato, Photographed from the Pacific Stone Grow.

The Origins of the Gelato Strain

Gelato is a storied strain that comes from the state of California. The Cookie Family, including Mario Guzman (aka Mr. Sherbinskis) and Jai Chang (aka Jigga), first hybridized this strain in the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to Gelato, the collective is also responsible for the Girl Scout Cookies, Cherry Pie, and Sunset Sherbet strains.

Gelato Strain Information

Gelato is a crossbreed of two California cannabis strains: Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GSC. 

Sunset Sherbet is a hybrid of its own, possessing Indica-dominant properties while offering cerebral energy and euphoria. It is a cross of Girl Scout Cookies and Pink Panties, and produces a well-balanced high that often starts with uplifting effects and then fades into a body buzz.

Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies is a balanced crossbreed of the Girl Scout Cookies, OG Kush, and F1 Durban Poison strains, producing potent full-body and psychoactive effects. Based on these parent strains, the Gelato strain produces a well-balanced high.

image default fpo coming soon

Gelato nug, Photographed from the Pacific Stone Grow.

Gelato Strain Effects

Cannabis strains can all slightly affect users differently. Therefore, having a good sense of a particular strain’s most common effects can be crucial to choosing the right one for your needs. As a slightly Indica-dominant hybrid, Gelato gives users a smooth and well-balanced high that often provides both cerebral and body benefits. You’ll often find the Gelato high starts with a euphoric head rush and then melts into more full-body relaxation. Here’s what many users say are the most common effects of the strain.

Mood Enhancer

One of the most common benefits of the Gelato strain is a powerful sense of euphoria. Users say this mood-boosting bliss usually happens at the onset, transporting you to an excellent state of mind. Users often report they feel happy and relaxed throughout the entire high.

Uplifting Cerebral High

Another effect of the Gelato strain is an uplifting and energetic high, often at the onset of a consumer’s experience. These effects can provide feelings of focus, energy, and even creative motivation.

Physical Relaxation

After the initial cerebral effects, Gelato can be known to transport users into a state of physical relaxation. Many users report a steady shift to a body buzz throughout the high that provides a sense of calm and peace.

These effects are user-reported, and they can vary from one individual to another. These effects can also change based on consumption method, amount, and individual tolerance levels.

Gelato Strain Typical Usage

While Gelato is an Indica-dominant hybrid strain, it can be a versatile strain. This well-balanced high is the perfect choice for afternoon and early evening usage, although many users say they enjoy the focus and motivation the strain can provide. So, if you’re looking to chill after a stressful day or want a euphoric experience, Gelato is a great option.

Gelato Aroma and Taste

Sweet flavor icon
Vanilla flavor icon
Mint flavor icon

Gelato can have many aromas, but you’ll primarily smell sweet, fruity, earthy, and even minty notes. The fruity flavors can have hints of orange and blueberry, while the earthy notes provide hints of lavender and floral aromas.

The flavors of Gelato are reminiscent of sherbet, with sweet notes of blueberry and orange. Because of its terpene profile, you may also taste peppery or baking spice notes – such as cinnamon or clove. While it can smell minty, these notes are muted in the taste, overpowered by the fruity and earthy flavors. Gelato can also have a creamy vanilla aftertaste.

Gelato cola

Gelato cola, Photographed from the Pacific Stone Grow.

What’s Gelato Look Like?

Typically, Gelato strains have a delicate structure, with dark green buds with purple highlights. True to its Cookie genetics, Gelato strains also have compact buds. These buds have bright orange hairs with bright orange pistils. The rich and frosty trichomes also produce a visible resin that’s sticky to the touch.

How much THC is in Gelato?

Because THC levels play a significant role in the high you experience, it’s essential to understand a strain’s THC level. In addition, a higher THC level means you can consume less in order to feel the same level of effects. In Pacific Stone’s version of Gelato, the THC level is 23-26%. 

No matter if you’re a Gelato aficionado or this is your first time smoking the strain, it’s always a good idea to start slow. Consumption methods can also significantly affect your experience, as specific methods can provide faster results while others take longer to feel the effects.

The Gelato Terpene Profile

When it comes to a particular strain’s unique flavors and aromas, its chemical composition – also known as its terpene profile – is responsible. Terpenes can also play an essential role in the effects a consumer experiences. While many terpenes exist, the most dominant in Gelato is caryophyllene. The other key terpenes in Gelato include myrcene, limonene, and linalool.

caryophyllene terpene icon

Caryophyllene (also called beta-caryophyllene) produces many of the floral, earthy, and spice aromas and flavors you’ll notice in Gelato. This terpene is found in herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, black pepper, and rosemary. Currently, researchers are studying caryophyllene and its ability to help reduce inflammation and provide chronic pain relief.

Myrcene Terpene

The next most prevalent terpene in Gelato is myrcene. This terpene is one of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis. Outside of cannabis, you’ll find myrcene in bay leaves, hops, lemongrass, and more. Many believe myrcene produces a sedative effect. To that end, researchers are taking a closer look at myrcene’s sedative properties, as well as its pain and inflammation relief characteristics.

Limonene terpene

Limonene is also found in Gelato, and it is the second most common terpene in nature, too. You can find it in many citrus fruits, including lemons, limes, and grapefruits. Limonene’s pleasant scent makes it an attractive addition to some foods and perfumes. Researchers are currently working to study limonene’s potential benefits for those suffering from anxiety, stress, and depression.

linalool terpene icon

Linalool is another terpene you’ll find in Gelato. This terpene is commonly found in basil and lavender, and it carries a lavender-like scent. Researchers are investigating linalool’s cognitive effects on chronic conditions, pain management, stress reduction, and fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gelato an Indica or Sativa?

Gelato is an Indica-dominant hybrid strain that can provide both Indica and Sativa effects. These effects can include euphoria, focus, and a relaxing body buzz. The current state of cannabis cultivation is such that there’s no longer a pure Indica or pure Sativa strain. Due to cross-breeding, many strains are hybrids that contain Indica and Sativa effects.

How does Gelato make you feel?

Gelato provides a well-balanced high that includes mood-boosting euphoric effects, a sense of focus and creativity, and a body buzz that can put you in a relaxed state. Some users report the physical effects can help to combat their muscle spasms. These effects can vary from person to person and can also vary depending on your personal tolerance and consumption method.

What is the Gelato strain made of?

The Gelato strain crosses Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies and Sunset Sherbet together. The strain offers a balanced smoking experience, a dessert-like flavor, and a potent THC content.

Is Gelato a good strain for sleep?

Because of its Cookie genetics, Gelato can provide a balanced high. While there are users who utilize Gelato to help fight insomnia, other users do not experience the same effects. Every person’s experience can vary, so it’s best to see how you react to a particular strain. For other strains that can help with insomnia, check out Wedding Cake or God’s Breath.

What does the Gelato strain taste like?

This strain combines earthy, spicy, and fruity flavor notes. It has a sweet smell and taste reminiscent of sherbet. You may also get earthy notes of lavender or even cinnamon notes. Some users also get a faint taste of mint as well. For many, this strain is a delicious dessert strain option.

Why is the Gelato strain so popular?

The Gelato strain is a favorite strain among veteran and beginner cannabis consumers – and for good reason. First, it has a pleasant and smooth aroma with a fruity flavor. This sweetness makes it a pleasurable smoke. Also, its dark green buds with orange hairs stand out and can be recognized by many. Second, although it’s got a slight Indica dominance, Gelato provides an even high with both Sativa and Indica effects.

How much is a gram of the Gelato strain?

The price of a gram of Gelato strains can vary based on a number of factors, including the dispensary, your geographic location, the brand, and more. At Pacific Stone, we’re committed to producing the highest quality cannabis at affordable prices.

Are there different versions of Gelato?

Yes, there are a few different Gelato strain phenotypes, which include Gelato 3, Gelato 33, Gelato 41, and Gelato 45. While each phenotype comes from Gelato, they will have slightly different attributes. These attributes can play a part in your experience.

Does Gelato strain give you munchies?

Gelato can give some consumers the munchies, although each person will have different experiences. In some, this can be a welcome side effect, as increasing appetite can be helpful for specific users. On the other hand, some users will not experience the munchies. However, because each person can have a different experience, it’s essential to start slow with any new-to-you strain to find out the particular effects it can have on your biochemistry.

Is Gelato a good strain for beginners?

As a rule of thumb, cannabis experiences can significantly vary from one person to the next. There are a variety of factors at play, including personal tolerance, biochemistry, and consumption methods. Therefore, it’s crucial that beginners or anyone trying a strain for the first time exercise a gradual approach. Try a small amount and wait until you begin to feel the effects. If you need to, you can always increase your consumption until you reach your desired effects.

Can medical marijuana patients use Gelato?

Yes, Gelato is a popular choice for medical cannabis users because of its balanced effects. While each experience will vary, medical users have said they experience relief from chronic pain, muscle spasms, nausea, depression, and other mood disorders. Other medical patients report an increased appetite. For more information about medical marijuana, check out this article.

What strains are like Gelato?

Gelato is a well-balanced hybrid strain with powerful euphoric and relaxing effects. If you enjoy the Gelato strain, check out similar strains such as Cereal Milk or Kush Mints.

Experience the deliciousness of Gelato from Pacific Stone

Pacific Stone offers Gelato in many different varieties – including flower, pre-rolls, blunts, infused pre-rolls, and sugar shake. So no matter your preferred consumption method, Pacific Stone offers high-quality products at affordable prices. Shop Gelato now!

Featured Gelato Products

Blue Dream 2-Pack Blunts

2-Pack Blunts

2-Pack Pre-Roll tube Gelato

2-Pack pre-rolls

7-Pack Infused Pre-Roll case Gelato

7-Pack Diamond infused pre-rolls

14-Pack Pre-Roll

14-Pack pre-rolls

Blue Dream Slims 20-Pack tin

20-Pack slims

High-End Collection 3.5g Jar Gelato

3.5G High-End Flower

3.5g, 1/8 ounce flower pouch Gelato

3.5G Flower

7g, 1/4 ounce flower pouch Gelato

7G Flower

14g, 1/2 ounce flower pouch Gelato

14G Flower

28g, 1 ounce flower pouch Gelato

28G Flower

14g, 1/2 ounce Roll Your  Own Sugar Shake Gelato

14G Roll Your Own Sugar shake

Cultivator doing plant quality checks.

About Pacific Stone

Pacific Stone was founded in 2015 with the goal of growing clean, consistent, and affordable cannabis for California. Founded by friends and family from the 805, Pacific Stone is a labor of love. We are intently focused on delivering high-quality marijuana at an affordable price.

As multi-generational Dutch greenhouse growers, we utilize our long history of growing to bring you farm-direct cannabis at the best price all year long. We take pride in ensuring customer satisfaction, and our flower has been consistently recognized as some of the highest quality and top-selling throughout the state of California.

Where to Buy

#PACSTONEGROWN