How Did OG Kush Get Its Name?

By Jeff Eckenrode

Quick Answer: OG Kush got its name from a mix of cannabis lore and California culture. “OG” might stand for “Original Gangster,” “Ocean Grown,” or “Original Grower”—depending on who you ask. First bred in Florida and popularized in L.A., OG Kush remains one of the most iconic and influential cannabis strains of all time.

The One, The Only: OG Kush

OG Kush might be one of the most iconic names in cannabis. Popularized by legendary rappers like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, OG Kush has become as synonymous with cannabis as Kleenex is with facial tissues.

But where exactly did its name come from?

Like many strains with devoted followings, the origins of OG Kush are a little hazy, clouded by decades of underground breeding, West Coast mythology, and hip-hop shoutouts.

There are a few stories worth passing around. Some are fact. Some are folklore. All of them, however, are pure fire.

When did OG Kush become popular?

OG Kush first caught popular attention in Southern California in the mid-1990s, where it quickly became a favorite among growers and smokers alike for its complex aroma, high potency, and uniquely balanced effects.

It was earthy, piney, slightly citrusy. It also delivered a euphoric body high that made it perfect for winding down while still keeping a clear head.

But even before it blew up in L.A., the genetics behind OG Kush were making moves on the opposite coast.

Where did OG Kush come from?

The most accepted origin story traces OG Kush back to Florida.

In the early '90s, a cannabis grower known as "Bubba" cultivated a strain called “Kush” in the Sunshine State. It’s possible that what he was cultivating was a hybrid of Chemdawg and a Hindu Kush phenotype.

Bubba then moved to Los Angeles, bringing cuts of his prized strain along with him. There, it was crossed again (likely with a Northern California strain), and the result was what we now know as OG Kush.

Once it landed in southern California, OG Kush spread far and wide. The word got out fast, and so did the confusion about what “OG” actually meant.

What Does “OG” Stand For?

Here’s where things get interesting. Ask ten people what OG means and you’ll probably get ten different answers. A few of the most popular answers include:

Original Gangster: This is the version most people know, thanks in part to '90s hip-hop culture. Rap icons like Cypress Hill and Snoop Dogg helped solidify this interpretation by referencing OG Kush in their lyrics, tying the strain to the street-savvy, West Coast lifestyle.

Ocean Grown: Another camp claims that “OG” stands for “Ocean Grown.” According to this version, someone once commented that the bud tasted like it came from the mountains, to which the grower replied, “Nah, this is ocean grown.” The name stuck—especially fitting for a strain that became a legend in coastal California.

Original Grower: Some say the OG moniker is simply a nod to the original cultivators who brought the strain to market, paying homage to the old-school heads who helped shape cannabis history.

Which one is true? It’s hard to say.

But like most things in cannabis culture, the name means different things to different people. Perhaps that’s exactly the point.

Does OG Kush still exist today?

Luckily, it does! In fact, OG Kush remains one of the most popular and sought after strains by cannabis connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

And no matter how it got its name, OG Kush has become a pillar of modern cannabis breeding. Its genetics have been used to create dozens of popular strains, including Girl Scout Cookies, Tahoe OG, Headband, and SFV OG.

The “OG” designation now shows up in so many hybrids that it’s become its very own category.

But ask any cannabis connoisseur and they’ll tell you—there’s only one OG Kush.

Where can I find OG Kush?

Whether you’re shopping in Redmond or online, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it. That includes OG Kush!

We carry OG Kush in smokeable flower and vape cartridges. Click on one of our online menu below to see our current selection.

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FAQ – OG Kush Cannabis Strain

What’s the origin of the name “OG Kush”?
OG Kush is thought to stand for “Ocean Grown” or “Original Gangster,” depending on who you ask. The name highlights both its West Coast roots and legendary status in cannabis culture. Its bold, memorable name matches the strain’s potent, euphoric effects that made it famous worldwide.

Where did OG Kush originally come from?
OG Kush originated in Southern California in the early 1990s, likely bred from a cross of Chemdawg, Hindu Kush, and a Northern California strain. Its genetics made it hardy, potent, and highly sought after by growers and consumers alike.

Is OG Kush an indica, sativa, or hybrid strain?
OG Kush is generally classified as a hybrid with indica-dominant effects. It delivers a relaxing body high paired with uplifting cerebral effects, making it popular for both stress relief and creative energy.

What does OG Kush smell and taste like?
OG Kush is famous for its earthy, piney aroma with hints of citrus and spice, paired with a smooth, slightly sweet flavor. Its unique terpene profile contributes to the legendary OG experience that cannabis enthusiasts rave about.

Why is OG Kush so popular today?
OG Kush remains iconic because of its consistent potency, rich flavor, and cultural impact. It’s a staple for medical and recreational users alike, appreciated for relaxation, stress relief, and its classic West Coast legacy.

Is OG Kush good for beginners or experienced users?
OG Kush is potent and powerful, so beginners should start with small amounts. Experienced users love it for deep relaxation, creative inspiration, and its legendary effects.