Key Lime Pie
Also known as: Key Lime GSC, Key Lime Cookies, Key Lime, KLP
Breeder: Burning Bush Nurseries
Key Lime Pie is an indica-dominant phenotype of Girl Scout Cookies stabilized by Burning Bush Nurseries in Northern California during the early 2010s. Selected for a brighter citrus-forward nose, heavy resin production, and soothing indica effects, it carved out a distinct identity from its GSC parent through its lime zest, vanilla, and mint bouquet. Known for dense, purple-tinted buds and strong potency that can overwhelm less experienced consumers. Key Lime Pie emerged in the early 2010s as a standout phenotype selection of GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), stabilized and popularized by Burning Bush Nurseries, a Northern California breeder known for dialing in dessert-forward cookie cuts. By selecting for a brighter citrus nose, denser resin coverage, and a more soothing indica-leaning effect, Burning Bush carved out a version of GSC that felt both familiar and distinctly new. The strain is also known by the aliases Key Lime GSC and Key Lime Cookies. A separate lineage attributed to Purple Caper Seeds exists — their version reportedly backcrossed a Santa Cruz GSC clone with a GSC F2 male to create regular seeds — but the Burning Bush Nurseries cut is the more widely recognized origin. KLP's dominant terpene trio of limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene produces a sensory profile that reads as lime candy, mint, warm spice, and chocolate cream, making it one of the most aromatically distinctive members of the Cookies family. THC typically tests 19–25%, with top-shelf indoor runs reaching 27%. The effect is strongly indica-leaning: a fast-hitting, heavy stone with cerebral clarity and creative focus that settles into deep body relaxation. Seasoned consumers prize the intensity, though novice users are often cautioned that the deceptively sweet flavor can mask a potency that is genuinely overwhelming.
Lineage & Genetics
Cross: Girl Scout Cookies (phenotype selection)
Girl Scout Cookies (Thin Mint GSC cut, probably): OG Kush [South Florida] x F1 Durban. The OG Kush component traces to an Emerald Triangle unknown crossed with Hindu Kush. F1 Durban derives from South African sativa landrace (KwaZulu-Natal). Burning Bush Nurseries selected within this GSC population for limonene-dominant expression and indica-leaning growth.
Lineage Dispute
Not a traditional cross — KLP is a phenotype selected from GSC (OG Kush x Durban Poison). Some sources (AskGrowers) incorrectly list Cherry Pie parentage. SeedFinder and the breeder confirm it as a GSC pheno stabilized by Burning Bush Nurseries. Purple Caper Seeds also claims a version backcrossed from a Santa Cruz GSC clone with a GSC F2 male.
Terpene Profile
Limonene — Bright citrus, lemon zest
Caryophyllene — Spicy, peppery warmth
Myrcene — Earthy, herbal, musky foundation
Linalool — Floral, lavender sweetness
Aroma: Immediately recognizable lime zest dominates, backed by cool mint, cotton candy sweetness, chocolate, and warm spice. Jar appeal is strong — the citrus jumps on opening.
Flavor: Lime candy and mint on the inhale with chocolate cream, earthy pepper, and a graham-cracker cookies undertone on the exhale. Smooth smoke with a creamy, dessert-like finish.
Effects & Experience
Onset: Fast-acting heavy stoned sensation within 5–15 minutes; hits hard with an immediate body weight
Couch-lock and drowsiness paired with surprising cerebral clarity and creativity. Strong indica body effects with a lucid, focused headspace. Can be overwhelming for novice users.
Duration: 1–3 hours depending on tolerance and dose
Commonly Reported Uses
Grower's Notes
Key Lime Pie grows like a textbook indica-dominant Cookies selection: compact, resin-drenched, and highly responsive to training. Stabilized by Burning Bush Nurseries as a gourmet phenotype of Girl Scout Cookies, the plant develops short internodes and stout lateral branches, typically reaching 80–120 cm indoors. The flowering stretch runs a moderate 1.5–2.0x, consistent with Cookies-derived material, so growers who top once or twice during late veg and employ LST or SCROG will be rewarded with a flat, productive canopy of uniform colas.
Growth Structure and Training
Structure favors tight node stacking with vigorous side branching that fills a trellis quickly. In SCROG setups, aim to fill the screen roughly 75% before flipping to 12/12, then continue tucking through the first two to three weeks of bloom as the stretch finishes. A light defoliation around day 21 of flower, followed by selective clean-up at day 42, opens airflow through the dense canopy without sacrificing photosynthetic capacity.
Flowering Time and Harvest
Flowering finishes in 9–10 weeks, with many cuts reaching peak ripeness between days 60 and 66. Harvest readiness is best judged by trichome maturity rather than pistil color — wait for predominantly milky heads with roughly 10–15% amber for the full-bodied effect this variety is known for. Indoor yields typically land in the 300–400 g/m² range under standard conditions, though growers running CO2 at 900–1200 ppm with high-intensity LEDs can push toward 450–550 g/m². Outdoors, expect 350–400 g per plant in warm, dry climates with harvest timing in early to mid-October.
Nutrient Management
Nutrition follows a standard photoperiod Cookies program. In veg, feed a nitrogen-forward formula (roughly 3-1-2 NPK) at EC 0.8–1.6 mS/cm. Transition to a phosphorus-potassium-rich bloom feed at the flip, ramping EC to 1.6–2.2 during peak flower. A brief PK boost around weeks 5–6 of bloom supports calyx swell, but keep it to one to two weeks maximum — KLP is not a heavy feeder and overdriving nutrients can mute the delicate lime terpenes. Taper feeds and flush with plain water for 7–10 days before harvest (5–7 days in coco/hydro, 10–14 in soil). In soil, maintain pH at 6.0–6.5; in coco or hydro, target 5.8–6.2.
Growing Media
Soil-grown Key Lime Pie is widely noted for superior terpene expression, particularly the signature lime-zest and mint top notes, while hydroponic systems push faster vegetative growth and potentially larger yields. Living soil and organic programs seem to accentuate the secondary esters and aldehydes that give KLP its pastry-shop complexity. Coco coir offers a middle ground, with frequent pulse irrigation (2–4 feeds per day in late bloom) stabilizing EC and preventing salt buildup.
Environment and Climate
Environmental targets include daytime temperatures of 22–26°C (72–79°F) with nighttime drops to 18–21°C (64–70°F). A controlled cold snap in late flower — nights around 15–18°C (59–64°F) — encourages anthocyanin expression, producing the purple hues the variety is known for, without stressing metabolism. Relative humidity should step down through the cycle: 55–65% in veg, 45–50% in early flower, and 38–45% in late flower to protect dense colas from botrytis.
Lighting
Light intensity is well-tolerated. Target PPFD of 400–600 µmol/m²/s in veg and 800–1000 µmol/m²/s in flower under LED, aiming for a DLI of 35–45 mol/m²/day during bloom. Supplemental CO2 at 900–1200 ppm paired with adequate nutrition commonly yields 10–30% improvements over ambient grows. Under full-spectrum LED with UVA/UVB supplementation, trichome density visibly increases, and maintaining leaf-surface temperatures 1–2°C below ambient helps preserve volatile monoterpenes.
Bud Structure and Trichomes
Buds develop as medium-sized, nugget-shaped clusters with an unusually high calyx-to-leaf ratio for a Cookies line, making trim work efficient. Finished flowers show deep green with flashes of purple, bright orange pistils, and a thick coat of resin. The aromatic profile is unmistakable: lime zest and bright citrus on top, creamy cookie dough and vanilla in the middle, and earthy chocolate with a faint mint-diesel edge underneath. Dominant terpenes are limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene, with pinene appearing in certain cuts. Total terpene content in well-grown flower typically runs 1.5–2.5%, with standout batches exceeding 3%. THC generally tests 19–25%, with elite indoor runs approaching 27%.
Pest and Disease Resistance
Pest and disease management centers on the density of the flower structure. The tight bud architecture creates microclimate pockets that favor botrytis (gray mold) if humidity drifts above 50% in late flower, making aggressive airflow and defoliation non-negotiable. Powdery mildew can colonize fan leaves in stagnant air, particularly during veg transitions; preventive IPM with biological controls (Bacillus-based sprays, potassium bicarbonate) is preferred. Spider mites and thrips are no more or less attracted to KLP than other resinous varieties, but the dense canopy can hide early infestations — scout undersides of leaves weekly.
Wash and Extraction
For solventless extraction, KLP is a washer's delight. The heavy resin coverage and trichome morphology yield heads that collect cleanly in the 90–120 µm range, a sweet spot for bubble hash separation. Live hash rosin preserves the lime-cream aromatics while layering in a gentle mint backdrop. Hydrocarbon extracts pull more of the vanilla custard and pastry tones. Fresh-frozen material processed promptly through ice water hash delivers above-average yields for a Cookies-family cultivar, and the resulting temple balls and rosin press well with a solid, workable consistency.
Drying and Curing
Drying and curing are where KLP's character is made or lost. Hang whole plants or branches in a dark room at 60–68°F (15–20°C) with 55–60% humidity, drying slowly over 10–14 days. Avoid direct airflow on buds — gentle circulation prevents mold without stripping volatile terpenes. Dry-trimming preserves the sugar-leaf shield during drying. Once small stems snap cleanly, transfer to airtight glass jars filled to 75% capacity. Cure at 58–62% RH, burping daily for the first week, then every two to three days through week four. The lime brightness stays crisp through a patient cure, while the cookie and chocolate layers deepen in the jar over four to eight weeks. Cold-curing at 55°F preserves monoterpenes significantly better than room-temperature curing.
History & Origin
Emerged in the San Francisco Bay Area during the early 2010s. Burning Bush Nurseries, a Northern California breeder known for dessert-forward cookie cuts, selected and stabilized this GSC phenotype for its brighter citrus nose and creamier indica finish. Initially spread through clone-only elite circles before seed versions appeared. By 2018, farms like Flowerdaze had KLP in regular rotation, marking its transition from boutique novelty to accessible mainstay. Purple Caper Seeds independently developed a seed version from a Santa Cruz GSC clone backcrossed with a GSC F2 male.
Awards & Recognition
- ●Best Hybrid Strain — Northwest Cannabis Classic
- ●3rd Place Solventless Cartridge — 2022 Emerald Cup (Arcata Fire x Highwater Farms)
- ●Key Lime Pie derivative 'Thunder Pie' (ATF x KLP) placed 15th in Rosin at High 95 competition
Notable Crosses
Strains bred using Key Lime Pie as a parent:
Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions about Key Lime Pie
What is Key Lime Pie and what are its genetics?
Key Lime Pie is a hybrid cannabis strain (75% Indica / 25% Sativa) bred by Burning Bush Nurseries. It is a cross of Girl Scout Cookies (phenotype selection), testing at 19–25% THC. Key Lime Pie is an indica-dominant phenotype of Girl Scout Cookies stabilized by Burning Bush Nurseries in Northern California during the early 2010s. Selected for a brighter citrus-forward nose, heavy resin production, and soothing indica effects, it carved out a distinct identity from its GSC parent through its lime zest, vanilla, and mint bouquet.
What does Key Lime Pie smell and taste like?
Key Lime Pie's dominant terpenes are Limonene, Caryophyllene. The aroma is described as immediately recognizable lime zest dominates, backed by cool mint, cotton candy sweetness, chocolate, and warm spice. jar appeal is strong — the citrus jumps on opening.. The flavor profile features lime candy and mint on the inhale with chocolate cream, earthy pepper, and a graham-cracker cookies undertone on the exhale. smooth smoke with a creamy, dessert-like finish..
What are the effects of Key Lime Pie?
Fast-acting heavy stoned sensation within 5–15 minutes; hits hard with an immediate body weight Couch-lock and drowsiness paired with surprising cerebral clarity and creativity. Strong indica body effects with a lucid, focused headspace. Duration is typically 1–3 hours depending on tolerance and dose. Commonly reported uses include Chronic pain, Insomnia, Stress, Depression.
How hard is Key Lime Pie to grow?
Key Lime Pie is rated intermediate difficulty. It flowers in 9-10 weeks, reaches medium (80-180cm indoor) in height, and yields 300-400 g/m² indoors. Best suited for indoor, outdoor, greenhouse environments.
What are the parent strains of Key Lime Pie?
Key Lime Pie is a cross of Girl Scout Cookies. Girl Scout Cookies (Thin Mint GSC cut, probably): OG Kush [South Florida] x F1 Durban. The OG Kush component traces to an Emerald Triangle unknown crossed with Hindu Kush.
Does Key Lime Pie turn purple?
Yes. Key Lime Pie is known to express purple coloration, with reported colors including frost, green, forest, purple, orange, brown. Cooler nighttime temperatures during late flowering typically intensify anthocyanin expression.
What strains were bred from Key Lime Pie?
Key Lime Pie has been used as a parent in several notable crosses, including Key Limeade, Chili Verde, Limelight, Thunder Pie. Its genetics contribute to a wide range of modern cultivars.
Has Key Lime Pie won any cannabis awards?
Yes. Key Lime Pie has received recognition including Best Hybrid Strain — Northwest Cannabis Classic; 3rd Place Solventless Cartridge — 2022 Emerald Cup (Arcata Fire x Highwater Farms); Key Lime Pie derivative 'Thunder Pie' (ATF x KLP) placed 15th in Rosin at High 95 competition.
Sources & References (36)
- SeedFinder.eu — Burning Bush Nurseries lineage/genealogy page
- SeedFinder.eu — Purple Caper Seeds lineage page
- Weedmaps — Key Lime Pie strain page
- Leafly — Key Lime Pie strain page
- AllBud — Key Lime Pie strain page
- AskGrowers — Key Lime Pie strain review
- JointCommerce — Key Lime Pie by Burning Bush Nurseries comprehensive guide
- JointCommerce — Key Lime Pie by Purple Caper Seeds comprehensive guide
- Growers Choice Seeds — Key Lime Pie growing guide
- Pure Canna Co — Key Lime Pie THCa Cold Cured Rosin product (wash data)
- Emerald Cup 2022 winners list
- High 95 competition finalists (Thunder Pie rosin placement)
- Grower's Notes cultivation sources:
- https://seedfinder.eu/en/strain-info/key-lime-pie/burning-bush-nurseries
- https://app.jointcommerce.com/blog/category/cannabis-101/key-lime-pie-by-burning-bush-nurseries-a-comprehensive-strain-guide/
- https://weedmaps.com/strains/key-lime-pie
- https://www.growerschoiceseeds.us/key-lime-pie-seeds/
- https://www.leafly.com/strains/key-lime-pie
- https://strngseeds.com/premium-seeds/key-lime-pie/
- https://leafwell.com/cannabis-strains/key-lime-pie
- https://royalkingseeds.ca/key-lime-pie-feminized
- https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/key-lime-pie
- https://app.jointcommerce.com/blog/category/cannabis-101/key-lime-pie-strain-a-comprehensive-strain-guide/
- https://app.jointcommerce.com/blog/category/cannabis-101/key-lime-pie-by-purple-caper-seeds-a-comprehensive-strain-guide/
- https://app.jointcommerce.com/blog/category/cannabis-101/key-lime-pie-bx2-by-sin-city-seeds-a-comprehensive-strain-guide/
- https://rivervalleyrelief.com/flower/key-lime-pie/
- https://rivervalleyrelief.com/extracts/solventless-hash-rosin/key-lime-pie-8/
- https://stewarthemp.com/products/key-lime-pie-indica-high-thca-flower-39-87
- https://www.hellomd.com/articles/10-award-winning-strains-in-legal-recreational-cannabis-states/
- https://www.strainy.com/cannabis/strains/key-lime-pie
- https://growguide.app/blog/nutrient-schedule-for-cannabis-full-guide/
- https://growguide.app/blog/cannabis-grow-chart-stage-by-stage-numbers-for-every-phase/
- https://www.mmj.com/learn/guides/drying-curing-cannabis/
- https://mobiustrimmer.com/how-to-preserve-terpenes-during-processing/
- https://humboldtseedcompany.com/expert-tips-for-terpene-preservation-during-curing/
- https://royalkingseeds.us/blog/cannabis-storage-and-preservation
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