Runtz

**Runtz** is a contemporary American cannabis brand and breeder that rose to meteoric fame in the late 2010s, largely built on the success of its flagship strain of the same name. Founded by the rapper and cultivator **Yung LB**, the brand emerged from the competitive Los Angeles and Bay Area cannabis scenes. **History & Rise:** The original Runtz strain is a highly sought-after, evenly balanced hybrid (50% Indica / 50% Sativa) created by crossing **Zkittlez** and **Gelato**. It debuted around 2017-2018 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its incredibly sweet, candy-like aroma (reminiscent of the Runts candy), vibrant colorful buds, and potent, euphoric effects. The brand was formally established to capitalize on this hype, moving from a single legendary cut to a full-fledged seed bank and merchandise brand. **Contributions & Philosophy:** Runtz's primary contribution is cementing the "dessert strain" or "candy strain" category in modern cannabis. Their philosophy centers on **luxury, exclusivity, and pop-culture appeal**. They focus on creating and identifying visually stunning, terpene-rich cultivars that deliver a powerful experience. The brand heavily leverages celebrity endorsement and streetwear-style marketing, bridging the gap between hip-hop culture and premium cannabis. While initially known for the single phenotype, the Runtz brand now develops and releases multiple related strains (e.g., White Runtz, Pink Runtz) and collaborates with other top breeders. **Legacy:** Runtz represents a new era of cannabis branding where strain names become powerful consumer labels. It won numerous awards, including the 2020 Leafly Strain of the Year, and its name has become synonymous with top-shelf, candy-flavored cannabis. Critics sometimes note its commercial focus, but its impact on strain naming conventions, consumer expectations for flavor, and the fusion of cannabis with lifestyle marketing is undeniable.