Panama red, known as Panamanian red,[1] or P.R.[2] is a pure cultivar of Cannabis sativa. It is popular amongst cannabis users of the 1960s and 1970s, and renowned for its potency.[3][4][5] The typically high THC levels associated with the variety are thought to be dependent on the particular cultivar, rather than the Panamanian climate.[6][7] 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.[8]
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."[7]
Its name comes from its cultivation in the country of Panama, and its claylike red color.[9] Production was common in Panama's sparsely populated Pearl Islands.[10]
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.
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.