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**Panama Red**
Panama Red is a classic cannabis strain that traces its roots back to the lush landscapes of Panama. Renowned for its fiery red pistils and uplifting sativa effects, Panama Red gained fame during the 1960s and 1970s, becoming a cultural icon among cannabis enthusiasts. The term “Panama Red” not only refers to its geographical origin but also highlights the strain’s distinctive red appearance. Over time, the meaning of Panama Red has evolved, yet it remains a symbol of the pure, unadulterated sativa experience that characterized the early days of cannabis exploration. While newer, more potent strains have overshadowed it in recent years, Panama Red’s legacy endures, celebrated by those who seek a nostalgic journey into cannabis history. As the cannabis industry continues to innovate, Panama Red stands as a testament to the plant’s diverse and storied past. [Source: High Times, Cannabis Culture]
Panama red, known as Panamanian red, or P.R. is a pure cultivar of Cannabis sativa. It is popular amongst cannabis users of the 1960s and 1970s, and renowned for its potency. The typically high THC levels associated with the variety are thought to be dependent on the particular cultivar, rather than the Panamanian climate. It induces a mellow cerebral high, slight body relaxation, characterized by euphoria and increase in energy, boosts creativity. It can cause anxiety and paranoia in some users.
In a limited test, an Auburn University researcher reported that "seed of a sample of Panama Red, grown in the very different climates of the Canal Zone, when later cultivated on the Auburn campus and in northern New Hampshire, yielded marijuana with similar THC content."
Its name comes from its cultivation in the country of Panama, and its claylike red color. Production was common in Panama's sparsely populated Pearl Islands.
Cannabis cultivation died off in Panama with the rise of cocaine trafficking.
On May 22, 2020, the season 2 of the animated Netflix's series Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series was released. In the 6th episode "The First Time We Smoked Weed" Panama Red is frequently mentioned.
The cultivar is mentioned in the 1999 film Detroit Rock City and the 2000 film Meet the Parents. "Panama Red" is the name of a song from the album The Yellow Balloon released in 1967 by the sunshine pop band The Yellow Balloon. It is also referenced in the 1979 film Apocalypse Now.
The strain is frequently mentioned in the popular 1970s stoner comic The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers.
Thomas Pynchon references Panama Red several times throughout his works.
The song "Panama Red" by Peter Rowan, was partly inspired by the strain; and the song "Amsterdam" by Van Halen refers to picking up Panama Red as a subject of the song.