Guava Rosin: A Comprehensive Deep Dive

Guava Rosin: A Comprehensive Deep Dive

Major Guava Strains & Lineages Relevant to Rosin

Guava-themed cannabis cultivars have become highly sought after for their tropical terpene profiles and strong performance in solventless extraction. Below is an overview of key Guava strains (and cuts) known in the rosin community, along with their breeder origins and genetic lineages:

Strain / Cut	Breeder / Origin	Genetic Lineage / Parentage
Guava (Cookies Cut)	Cookies Fam (Jigga & Sherbinski)	Gelato phenotype (Gelato = Sunset Sherbet × Thin Mint GSC). Selected for a fruity “guava” aroma.
Guava Stardawg (aka Guava OG cut)	Top Dawg Seeds (JJ NYC)	Chem #4 × Tres Dawg. A special Stardawg pheno with tropical fruit notes; won Best Sativa, HT Cannabis Cup 2012.
Guava Gelato	Clone-only by Sherbinski; seed version by Equilibrium Genetics	Sherbinski’s Guava Gelato is essentially the Cookies’ Guava cut (Gelato pheno). Equilibrium’s Guava Gelato seeds = Guava Stardawg × “Melted Gelato” (Gelato 33 × Glue BX3).
Strawberry Guava	Bloom Seed Co (Harry Palms)	StrawNana (14er cut) × Papaya (rare cut). Indica-leaning hybrid renowned for huge resin production and flavor (2nd Place Chalice 2017, Best Non-Solvent).
Guava Pie	Bloom Seed Co (Harry Palms)	Strawberry Pie × Strawberry Guava. Dense, rock-hard buds with “minty guava jam and cheese pastry” aroma. Clone-only release, now in feminized seed. Dominant terpene: limonene.
Guava × Papaya crosses	Various (e.g. Hawaiian Budline “Pink-Paya”)	Guava × Papaya combines two solventless all-stars. Pink-Paya = (Guava × Papaya) × (Papaya × Purple Ice Water) – an award-winning rosin strain with “sweet candy guava and heavy papaya” flavors and solid returns (high hash yield). Other variants like “Guava Papaya” (Master’s Signature line) use Pineapple Strawguava × Papaya for a “tropical explosion” of flavor.
Other “Guava” Hybrids	(Notable examples)	Strawguava (Strawberry Guava’s nickname) is itself StrawNana×Papaya. Guava’z (Guava Z) crosses involve Guava and Zkittlez lineage (e.g. Bloom’s “Guava’z 74”). White Guava (The White × Guava) and Guava Chem (Chem×Guava) have existed, but are less common in solventless circles. These hybrids generally aim to infuse Guava’s tropical terps into new lines.

Note: The “Guava” name in modern strains typically traces to either the Cookies Fam’s Guava Gelato cut (sativa-leaning Gelato clone) or the Top Dawg Guava Stardawg cut. The Cookies Guava is described as “a sativa-leaning hybrid… a Gelato phenotype” with sweet fruity gas, whereas Top Dawg’s Guava is a Chem-family varietal (Stardawg) known for a unique tropical funk. Both have inspired many crosses aimed at solventless extraction.

Cultivation Characteristics and Grower Feedback

Growing these Guava and Papaya-influenced strains can range from moderately easy to somewhat demanding. Most tend to thrive in indoor setups (to maximize resin quality), though some can do well outdoors in warm climates. Below is a side-by-side look at cultivation specs:

Strain	Flower Time	Yield (Flower)	Growth Notes & Feedback
Guava (Gelato Cut)	~8–9 weeks indoor; Harvest mid-Oct outdoors	Moderate (Gelato yields)	Environment: Prefers a controlled indoor climate (70–80 °F day, ~65 °F night). Does well in Mediterranean outdoor climates as well. Plant: Medium height, sativa-leaning structure. Develops dense, chunky buds with heavy trichomes. Feeding: Responds to moderate feeding; ensure soil dries out between waterings (hates staying soggy). Difficulty: Medium – thrives under stable temps and RH (40–50% veg, ~30–40% bloom to prevent mold).
Papaya (Nirvana cut)	~8 weeks (fast finisher)	High yield (heavy colas)	Plant: Indica-dominant hybrid; short, bushy structure (“small (0–4 ft)” indoors). Very vigorous with massive bud production and exceptional resin output. Growth: Hardy and easy to grow (original Papaya was bred for robustness). Feeding: Tolerates heavy feeding; likes warm, sunny conditions. Often cited as a “washers’ dream” for its copious trichomes and ease of cultivation.
Strawberry Guava	~9–10 weeks indoor (±67 days)	Massive – very high yields	Plant: Mostly indica. Strong, thick branching to support dense flowers. Trichomes: Extremely resinous – bred specifically for concentrate production. Bloom Seed Co notes “massive yield and impressive resin production” for this cross. Feeding: Moderate nutrients; can handle intense light. Irrigation: Prefers dry-back – “does not like to stay wet” (allow roots to dry before re-watering). Grower feedback: Very hash-friendly cultivar – award-winning in solventless contests (Chalice 2017). Generally mold-resistant due to sparse leaf and heavy resin coating.
Guava Pie	~9 weeks (est.) – dense indica buds	Moderate (medium-high)	Plant: Indica-leaning hybrid. Buds: Extremely dense (“10/10 density, hard as rocks”) and iced-out with trichomes. Phenotypes are reportedly fairly uniform. Aroma: Very pungent in late flower (carbon filters recommended) – “fermenting minty guava jam with cheese pastry” smell as buds ripen. Feeding: Responds well to training and pruning to avoid bud rot (dense colas need airflow). Grower tip: Monitor humidity in late flower to prevent mold in the rock-hard colas. Overall feedback is that Guava Pie “looks absolutely iced” and smokes smooth, indicating a successful resin maturation.
Wilson (Papaya x Banana x Tropicanna)	~9 weeks (fast finisher for a polyhybrid)	High (above average)	Plant: Hybrid vigor; high-yielding strain bred for hash. Two main phenos: one pink/purple with doughy spice flavors, another green with mixed tropical fruit aromas. Both phenos are robust. Feeding: Heavy feeder, more nutrient-hungry than many strains from the same breeder. Shows no hermaphrodite issues (“no intersex traits” in testing). Growth: Medium height, bushy. The sought-after pheno combines purple coloration with intense fruit terps and high resin – ideal for solventless. Outdoor: Finishes early (before autumn rains) which is a plus for growers in temperate zones. General: Wilson is noted as an “ideal for hash making” variety, reflecting its thick resin heads and ease of harvest.
Zkittlez (“Original Z”)	~7–8 weeks (very fast)	Low to moderate	Plant: Indica-dominant, but structure is medium-sized and bushy. Yields are notoriously low in both bud and hash production (rated “low – medium” yield by cultivators). Often considered a connoisseur strain grown for flavor over quantity. Challenge: Can be finicky to grow – some phenos are nutrient-sensitive and prefer lower temps to preserve terpenes. Resin: Though terpene-rich, trichome coverage is moderate and heads tend to be small, making Zkittlez a poor washer (hash yields often <3%). Growers often cross Zkittlez with other strains to improve yield while retaining its signature candy flavor.

General observations: Most Guava/Papaya strains prefer warm, bright conditions and will reward growers with abundant trichomes if kept healthy. Indoor cultivation is common to maximize resin: for example, Guava Gelato thrives in a controlled indoor environment with temps ~75 °F and proper humidity control. Flowering times range from ~8 weeks (Papaya, Zkittlez) up to 10 weeks (Strawberry Guava’s longer indica cycle). Heavy resin producers (StrawGuava, Papaya, Wilson) often have sturdy structure and vigorous growth, making them relatively forgiving to grow despite their exotic lineage. Adequate support for branches is recommended when buds swell (these strains pack on weight late in flower). Keeping humidity low in late bloom is critical as the resin content is high – buds can trap moisture. Growers frequently report excellent bag appeal: e.g. Guava Pie’s nuggets “look beautiful… absolutely iced” with trichomes, and Wilson phenos showing vibrant colors and fruit aromas that make harvest a delight.

Trichome development: A key focus for solventless growers is trichome quality. These Guava/Papaya cultivars tend to exhibit large, bulbous gland heads with relatively weak stalks – a trait desired for hash washing. As hash expert Nikka T describes, “dense trichome growth, perfect structure with a weak-neck trait and large, waxy heads… you have found a washer!”. Strawberry Guava and Papaya are famous for exactly that kind of trichome – resin that feels like “gritty sand” when rubbed, indicating brittle, easy-to-isolate heads. Grower feedback consistently notes that strains like Papaya practically “drip resin” and can produce sandy kief when dry-trimmed, showing their suitability for bubble hash. In contrast, a strain like original Zkittlez has smaller, greasier trichomes that make it harder to collect (hence its lower hash yields).

Rosin Production & Solventless Yield Performance

One of the main reasons these Guava- and Papaya-derived strains are coveted is their stellar performance in solventless extraction. Many are considered top-tier “washers,” yielding significant returns of high-quality ice water hash and rosin. Here we examine their solventless characteristics – yields, terpene preservation, rosin appearance, and stability:

• Solventless Yield (Fresh Frozen): In the context of ice water extraction, a fresh frozen yield of 3% (of input weight) is often cited as the break-even point for commercial viability. Most strains in this Guava family meet or exceed that. In fact, breeder and hash data indicate exceptional yields:

  • Strawberry Guava (Bloom’s S1) regularly outputs 5%+ yield from fresh frozen material. Hash makers have reported “over 5% on WPFF” (whole-plant fresh frozen) for Strawberry Guava, which is well above average. It’s considered a “legacy hash rosin powerhouse” by experienced washers.

  • Papaya is similarly prolific – often cited alongside GMO as a gold standard. While exact % can vary, Papaya is known to wash in the ~4–6% range, with some reporting returns even higher under ideal conditions. It’s “quickly becoming a solventless staple” because of this reputation.

  • Guava x Papaya hybrids (e.g. Pink-Paya) are explicitly bred for yield: Hawaiian Budline advertises Pink-Paya as “super loud terps that wash with solid returns”. In practice, growers see heavy hash yields from those crosses, often combining the best of both parents (reports of 5%+ yields are common in forums for Guava/Papaya combos).

  • Cookies’ Guava Gelato cut by itself is a bit less documented in yield %, but growers consider it a decent washer – perhaps not as high as Papaya, but still above the 3% benchmark. When crossed with stronger hash plants (as Equilibrium did by crossing Guava Stardawg into it), the yields improve further. Top Dawg’s Guava Stardawg cut, being Chem-based, isn’t known for huge hash yields (Chemdog usually washes moderately); however, its contribution is more in exotic terpene profile. When paired with Papaya or StrawNana genetics, the combined yield and terp synergy is excellent (hence combos like Strawberry Guava, Guava Melon, etc.).

  • Zkittlez, for comparison, is notorious for low yields. Grow data and hash community consensus put Zkittlez hash returns in the ~2–3% range at best (1000g fresh frozen might yield only ~20–30g rosin). As one grower quipped, “what yield she lacks, she makes up for in terps”. This is why Zkittlez is often blended or used in crosses – to enjoy its flavor without the poor returns.

• Terpene Retention & Potency: These fruity strains tend to produce terpene-rich resin that translates into very flavorful rosin. Live rosin made from fresh frozen Guava/Papaya material often captures the full spectrum of volatiles, giving a true “fresh fruit” nose. For example, Bloom’s Strawberry Guava took 1st Place for Highest Terpenes in a non-solvent concentrate at Chalice 2017 – a testament to how well its terpenes carry over into rosin. Likewise, 710 Labs (a top solventless producer) has popularized Papaya rosin as one of the most flavorful extracts available, noting it as “the most flavorful genetic around”. Users frequently report that dabbing these rosins is like “a tropical smoothie in vapor form”, with aromas of guava, papaya, pineapple, and berry bursting forth. Terpene lab tests (where available) underscore the dominance of monoterpenes in these strains – for instance, a Papaya rosin COA often shows high d-Limonene, β-Myrcene, and β-Caryophyllene content, sometimes 2–3%+ of each by weight. Such high terpene levels not only enhance flavor but also contribute to a “greasy” rosin texture (see below).

• Rosin Color and Texture: Rosin made from Guava-family strains tends to come out a light golden yellow when fresh. High-quality live rosin is typically a translucent honey or light amber right after pressing. Upon cold curing (agitating and resting the rosin at room temperature), these strains readily “butter up” into a creamy badder consistency. For example, Evermore’s Papaya Cold Cure Live Rosin is noted for preserving the strain’s terp profile and yielding a product with a fruity nose and tropical taste – typically cold cure rosins appear as a pale blonde, cake batter-like texture. Many hash makers actually prefer to cold-cure Guava and Papaya rosins because the terpene fraction is high – the concentrate “budders” nicely into a stable, whipped consistency without needing added heat. The resulting color is often a buttery off-white or light beige, indicating minimal oxidation. Consumers often post “rosin porn” pictures of Strawberry Guava or Papaya badder that is nearly white in color due to how fresh and terpene-rich it is (especially true for first-press hash rosin with minimal plant lipids).

• Stability and Storage: Rosin stability refers to whether it stays homogenized or if it “greases out” (separates) over time. The Guava/Papaya strains generally produce rosin that is stable when properly cured. Their naturally high terpene content means the rosin can be very soft at room temperature (easy to smear on a dab tool), but if cold cured and stored cool, it usually remains uniform. Some strains with extremely high terpenes (e.g. certain Zkittlez or Tropicanna phenos) can form a top layer of terpene “sauce” over time; by contrast, Papaya and Strawberry Guava rosin often stay integrated as a badder. Hashmakers describe “greasy” vs “sandy” hash – interestingly, Papaya and Strawberry Guava heads tend to be on the sandy side when fresh frozen is ice water extracted (meaning they separate cleanly, yielding high purity). This contributes to rosin that doesn’t have excess waxes to crystallize, helping maintain a smooth consistency. In practice, cold-cured Guava/Papaya rosin can remain stable for weeks if kept in a cool, dark place – it may slowly budder more over time (which is fine), but it rarely sugar or nucleate into undesirable textures. Consumers appreciate that products like Papaya rosin badder stay soft and “taffy-like” rather than sugaring up into crumble. That said, all solventless extracts are best kept refrigerated for long-term storage to preserve terpenes and prevent any darkening or drying.

• Rosin Yield per run: When pressing bubble hash into rosin, these strains again shine. Quality 5-6 star hash from Papaya or Strawberry Guava typically presses at >70% yield (i.e. 1g of hash yields 0.7g+ rosin), which is excellent. In one compilation of hash press yields, a grower reported Strawberry Guava 73-120µ full melt yielding ~85% rosin – reflecting very resin-dense trichomes. Such high conversion rates indicate well-grown material and optimal harvest timing (letting trichomes fully ripen and bulb up). For home producers, this means if you start with 1000g of fresh frozen Strawberry Guava, you might get ~50g of bubble hash and end up with ~30–40g of finished rosin – a highly worthwhile return. By contrast, 1000g of fresh frozen Zkittlez might only produce ~20g hash and ~12g rosin, illustrating the disparity in hashability between these strains.

In summary, Guava-, Papaya-, and Strawberry Guava-based cultivars are among the all-stars of solventless extraction. They check all the boxes: high wash yields, robust terpene retention (giving true-to-strain flavor in rosin), attractive light color, and a user-friendly stable texture. It’s no surprise that solventless companies and hashmakers prioritize these genetics – many top-shelf hash brands (e.g. 710 Labs, Kalya, Hash and Flowers, Rosin Tech) frequently drop Papaya or StrawGuava concentrates that sell out immediately, confirming their reputation in the rosin community.

Terpene Profiles and Laboratory Data

One of the most enticing aspects of Guava and Papaya strains is their fruit-forward terpene profile. Lab-tested data (from strain libraries and extract analyses) show a dominance of sweet, tropical terpenes that give these cultivars their signature aroma. Below we break down the common terpenes and flavor notes:

• Limonene: A top terpene in many of these strains. d-Limonene imparts bright citrus and tropical fruit notes – often likened to lemon, orange, or in this case more of a general tropical sweetness. Guava Gelato for instance has a “creamy, tropical aroma with bright piña colada notes”, largely thanks to limonene. Lab reports for Guava (Gelato) and Guava Pie confirm limonene as the dominant terpene. Limonene gives that sharp, sweet top-note – in Strawberry Guava, it contributes to a “heavy Starburst candy” scent. In Papaya, limonene combines with other terps to create a “delicately citric” undertone in the otherwise musky tropical aroma.

• Myrcene: Typically the second major terp. β-Myrcene is known for its lush, fruity and musky character (think mango or overripe fruit) as well as sedative effects. Papaya is actually famous for its myrcene content – the strain’s relaxing “couch-lock” stone and sweet musky fruit smell are myrcene-driven. Abstrax (terpene lab) lists Papaya’s dominant terps as limonene and myrcene in high amounts. In Strawberry Guava, myrcene likely underscores the guava aspect – providing that tropical thickness to the aroma. Myrcene is also abundant in Mango/Papaya-like strains, contributing to the “peaceful, relaxed” vibe of their terpene profile. Many Guava crosses (being Gelato or Chem-based) have decent myrcene but usually less than limonene. Still, most of these strains register a significant myrcene presence, reinforcing the sweet fruit smell and adding a hint of earthiness.

• Caryophyllene: Often the third key terpene. β-Caryophyllene brings a warm, spicy, funk note and is prevalent in Gelato, Cookies, and Chem lineages. In the Guava context, caryophyllene can add a slightly gassy or cheese-like backend to the aroma. Notably, Guava Pie’s unique smell of “guava jam and cheese pastry” likely arises from caryophyllene and perhaps minor sulfur compounds blending with the sweet terps. Zkittlez, too, lists caryophyllene as a dominant terpene – it gives Z that subtle peppery bite beneath the candy. Many users describe Guava Gelato’s scent as sweet fruit + hops (funk) – interestingly, the hops note aligns with caryophyllene and humulene (another terpene often present). In lab tests, Guava strains often show β-Caryophyllene as the dominant “peppery” terpene alongside limonene and linalool. Caryophyllene is also what makes these strains physically calming (it’s a known anti-inflammatory terpene that also engages CB2 receptors).

• Linalool: A terpene common in Gelato and some fruity indicas, contributing floral and creamy nuances. It’s listed among top terps for the Cookies’ Guava (Gelato) cut. Linalool gives a mild lavender or candied florality which can enhance the “creamsicle” aspect of something like Guava Gelato. It likely plays a role in Papaya’s terpene mix too – some Papaya phenos have a sweet, floral-fruity note (Abstrax data shows Papaya has linalool in its profile). Linalool can make the aroma softer and sweeter (imagine the powdery sweetness in some candy). In rosin form, linalool-rich strains often taste smooth and a bit creamy, rounding out the sharp citrus. Guava Gelato’s piña-colada creaminess hints that linalool and maybe bisabolol are at play.

• Tropical fruit bouquet: Beyond the specific terpenes, these strains owe their “fruit cocktail” aroma to a combination of compounds. Strawberry Guava notably merges strawberry banana scents with papaya – users describe its live rosin as “unique tropical flavor… reminds me of passionfruit smoothie”. This complexity likely comes from minor terpenes like ocimene (sweet, tropical), terpinolene (fruity, complex), and esters that give berry notes. Wilson, being (Banana OG × Papaya) × Tropicanna, literally mixes banana, papaya, and orange terps – one phenotype smelled of “oranges, bananas, and peaches” all at once. Such strains can have unusual terpene combos, including Valencene (orange-sherbet smell), Humulene (hoppy, woody) and others. For instance, lab analyses of some Wilson crosses have shown high Farnesene (which gives fruity sweetness, like in Green Apple strains). Zkittlez is known for an extremely complex terpene profile where “sweet, tropical, candy, grape, and citrus” all converge. Its main terps are caryophyllene, humulene, linalool, and limonene, but it’s the specific ratio that creates that Skittles candy impression.

• Flavor on the exhale: When dabbed, Guava/Papaya rosins deliver very bold flavor. Common tasting notes reported by consumers include: “creamy tropical smoothie,” “ripe pineapple and guava,” “sweet berry candy with a gassy finish,” and even minty or cooling touches in some cases (perhaps from a mild menthol note in certain phenos). The exhale often leaves a lingering sweetness on the palate. In one Reddit review, a user raved that Guava Gelato rosin had “dank but also fruity terps… so unique. Took a fat dab and I’m almost cheesing I’m so medicated”. Another hash connoisseur simply stated: “Strawberry Guava is a staple… love it”, underscoring that the flavor is both delicious and consistently satisfying to seasoned users.

In summary, the terpene profiles of these strains are dominated by a triad of fruit, sweet, and spice terps: limonene (citrus/tropical), myrcene (fruity/musky), caryophyllene (spicy/funky), with frequent help from linalool (floral) and humulene/ocimene (herbal, tropical). This creates layered flavors – e.g. Guava Pie gives guava and strawberry candy on the inhale with a faint cheesy funk on the backend; Papaya hits with a gush of sweet fruit then a woody, almost dank finish. Each strain has its signature twist (Strawberry Guava has a hint of “sweet cheese,” Zkittlez has that grape candy note, Wilson brings some citrus, etc.), but all share a “fruit cocktail” DNA that the solventless community absolutely loves. Lab data supports these observations, and importantly, the rosin extraction process tends to preserve these terps exceptionally well, since no solvents strip or alter them. The result: Guava and Papaya rosins are among the most flavorful dabs you can experience, delivering true-to-strain taste that often surpasses even the flower’s aroma in intensity.

Market Trends and Popularity in Legal Markets

The surge of interest in solventless concentrates over the past few years has elevated strains like Papaya, Guava, and their hybrids to rock-star status in many markets. Let’s explore current trends in pricing, availability, and demand across major legal states, with an emphasis on the U.S.:

• Popularity and Market Share: Solventless extracts (hash, rosin, etc.) have grown from a niche to a substantial segment of the concentrate market. As of early 2023, rosin made up ~14–16% of all “dabbable” concentrate sales across BDSA-tracked states (which include CA, CO, MI, etc.). In mature markets like California and Colorado, rosin’s share is even higher – about 21% of concentrate sales in CA and 22% in CO by dollar volume. This indicates a strong consumer shift toward solventless, often at the expense of BHO products. Within that solventless category, fruit-forward strains are highly sought after. For example, in Colorado’s legal market, Papaya and its crosses are frequently among the top-selling live rosins, as reported by dispensary buyers. California’s dispensaries similarly note that any SKU with “Papaya”, “StrawGuava”, or “Zkittlez” in the name tends to fly off the shelf, especially if it’s from a reputable hash brand. Michigan, which has both a robust licensed market and a legacy caregiver scene, also shows high demand for Guava/Papaya strains – local processors like Peak, Imperial, and 710 Labs (now operating in MI) regularly offer Papaya or Strawberry Guava live rosin, and these are met with enthusiasm in the community (often discussed on forums like Reddit and Discord). Even emerging markets like Illinois (traditionally limited strain selection) have seen consumers lobbying for Papaya and Guava strains; one Illinois user lamented “why doesn’t any brand grow Guava or Papaya?” while praising the few Papaya products that had appeared. This shows the reputation of these strains precedes them – consumers who’ve heard of their solventless pedigree are actively seeking them out.

• Wholesale and Retail Pricing: Solventless concentrates command a premium price relative to other extracts, due to labor-intensive production and limited supply. That said, prices are gradually normalizing as the market matures and more producers come online. Here’s a comparison of approximate retail price ranges for 1 gram of top-tier live rosin in key states (as of 2024):

  State Retail Price Range (1g live rosin) Notes California (CA) ~$50 – $100+ per gram (before tax). Typical: $70–$80/g for top-shelf. CA has the highest taxes, so out-the-door can exceed $100 for elite brands. The State Fair winning or celebrity-collab hash can hit $120–$140/g after taxes. More value-oriented rosins (second-press or lesser-known brand) can be found ~$45–$60/g. Sesh (gray market) events in SoCal sometimes offer craft hash at ~$25–$50/g cash. Overall, CA consumers expect to pay a premium for strains like Papaya – e.g. Papas Select Papaya often sits at $80–$90 in dispensaries. Colorado (CO) ~$30 – $60 per gram retail. Typical: ~$40/g for live rosin, lower for tier-2. CO’s market is more saturated; prices have come down. It’s not uncommon to see $30–$40 grams of live rosin from good local producers (especially in medical dispensaries). One user noted getting rosin at a Colorado med shop for $20/g on special – a remarkably low figure, but indicative of price competition. Top brands (e.g. 710 Labs persy rosin, Laser Cat) might still fetch $60–$70/g, but overall CO has some of the country’s lowest solventless prices for the quality. Oregon (OR) $10 – $40 per gram (recreational market). Oregon’s oversupply and lower production costs mean even high-end live rosin is very affordable. There are reports of fresh-press live rosin for $10–$20/g during sales – an incredibly low price point. More typically, good rosin (from strains like Strawberry Guava or Trop Cookies) might retail around $30–$40/g in Portland area dispensaries. Oregon’s issue is less about demand (hash is popular there too) and more about a saturated supply keeping prices low. Great for consumers, tough for producers. Michigan (MI) ~$20 – $70 per gram. Typical: $30–$50/g for most brands. Michigan has a unique mix of licensed product and a large caregiver/homebrew scene. In licensed dispensaries, top-shelf rosin (e.g. 710 Labs, Winewood Organics) goes for ~$60–$70/g. However, many “mid-tier” options are $30 or less – e.g. local hashmakers Ice Kream or Superior Solventless often have grams in the $25–$40 range. On the legacy market, college-age consumers report picking up decent rosin for $20–$30/g easily. There’s a wide range, but the competition in MI keeps even high quality product relatively affordable. A Redditor from Michigan noted “my current collection ranges from $22 to $60 a gram… I can tell the difference in ‘holy f**’ rosin, but I’m in college and can’t afford to smoke only that”*. This illustrates the availability of budget-friendly solventless alongside the connoisseur jars.

  Sources: California pricing from Hashwriter (2021) and Leafly reports; Colorado/Oregon/Michigan pricing from crowd-sourced threads and local dispensary menus.

• Trends in Demand: Across the board, fruit-terpene rosins are in very high demand. In California, for instance, dispensaries during “Hash Hole” week noted that Papaya- and Guava-based hash holes (infused pre-rolls) were among the first to sell out – consumers just love those flavors. In Michigan’s caregiver scene, strains like Strawberry Guava are considered hype; growers actively hunt Bloom Seed Co packs to find the next great hash plant. On social media, there’s a strong “solventless community” (Instagram, Reddit’s r/rosin, Discord servers like Hash Fight Club) where users swap notes on strains. Scrolling through, you’ll see Papaya, StrawGuava, and Wilson mentioned extremely often. For example, one Redditor in r/rosin started a “hash price map” thread and multiple users chimed in referencing Papaya or Zkittlez in their stash or wish-list. When 710 Labs expanded to new states, one of the first strains they hyped was Papaya (#35) due to its solventless pedigree (and indeed, 710’s Papaya Persy Rosin has a devoted following). Zkittlez, despite its low yield, still garners a lot of attention for its flavor – it’s commonly found in vape carts and hash rosin blends (to stretch its terps). In Canada’s legal market, rosin vapes labeled “Strawberry Guava” or “Strawberry Guava x Zkittlez” have been big hits, showing that even internationally these terpy profiles are trending. Additionally, breeders are leaning in – many new seed releases explicitly advertise “solventless champion” strains, often fruit-heavy. Oni Seed Co, Bloom, Terp Hogz, and Masonic all have ongoing projects combining Papaya, Banana, Berries, etc., to cater to the hash scene.

• Pricing dynamics: Even though price compression is happening generally in cannabis, rosin remains a premium segment. BDSA data showed that in early 2023, the average retail price of rosin in mature markets was about $35/gram, which was ~83% higher than the average price for all concentrates. This reflects that consumers are willing to pay more for quality solventless. However, those prices are slowly easing down (18% drop from Jan 2022 to Jan 2023 in average rosin price). The good news for consumers is that what used to be a $100 product may now be found for $70, and mid-tier options have become quite affordable (as noted in MI and OR). Wholesale prices for top-tier fresh frozen material suitable for rosin also remain high – cultivators growing StrawGuava or Papaya often get a premium on their flower if it’s destined for hash. Processors in California in 2022 were paying upwards of $400–$600 a pound for fresh-frozen Papaya trim (which is far above commodity biomass rates) because of the returns it gives. Those costs feed into retail pricing. Still, the solventless consumer base is relatively price-insensitive when it comes to boutique strains – they will pay top dollar for the very best. For example, when Hash and Flowers launched their Cold Cure Papaya rosin in CA at ~$45/g (low for that quality), it caused a stir and sold out quickly, after which some stores hiked it to $70 (and it still sold). This underscores that demand for premium fruit terps often outstrips supply, keeping prices buoyant.

In essence, Guava and Papaya strains have become linchpins of the solventless market. They are a selling point themselves – brands will advertise “Live Rosin – Guava x Papaya” or “Strawberry Guava Cold Cure” knowing aficionados will snap it up. The major markets (CA, CO, MI, OR) each reflect this in their own way: California treats these strains as luxury items (with marketing and pricing to match), Colorado and Oregon have made them widely accessible as favorites among a knowledgeable hash crowd, and Michigan straddles the line with both high-end and budget offerings featuring these genetics. The solventless community’s demand continues to influence what growers cultivate; we see more Papaya and Guava crosses on dispensary menus today precisely because hash consumers have voiced their preference for loud, fruity profiles and high-return strains.

Consumer Reviews & Community Sentiment

What are people saying about Guava and Papaya rosin strains in the wild? To put it simply: consumers and connoisseurs adore these strains. Scanning Reddit discussions, Instagram comments, and Discord chats, a few common themes emerge:

• “Flavor on another level”: The most unanimous sentiment is praise for the flavor intensity. Dabbers rave that the taste of a good Papaya or Strawberry Guava rosin is unmatched. On Reddit’s r/MissouriMedical, a user reviewing a Strawberry Guava live rosin cart said “this thing tastes really nice… unique tropical flavor, strawberry guava is a good way to put it”. In a Pennsylvania solventless forum, a user described Gratitude Gardens’ Guava Gelato rosin as “dank but also fruity terps. This stuff is so unique”, noting the powerful effects had them “in the clouds” with a big smile. There’s a sense that these terps bring a “wow factor” even for seasoned hash consumers. Many comment that the exhale is like tasting the actual fruit – “it’s like I just bit into a piece of guava”, one Instagram user remarked under a Papaya rosin post. This high praise for flavor translates into brand loyalty: people often stick with a producer who nails these strains. For example, 710 Labs’ Persy Papaya rosin has fans in multiple states; one comment on Reddit noted, “710’s Papaya… some of the best rosin I’ve had from a dispensary. The flavor is so strong”, giving it a 9/10 rating.

• Potency and effects: While flavor steals the show, users also report enjoyable effects. These strains tend to be hybrids or indica-leaning, delivering a euphoric but relaxing high. A Guava Gelato user mentioned feeling “energized and happy, yet with a calm body” – consistent with Gelato lineage’s balanced high. Strawberry Guava is said to be “euphoric, relaxing and somewhat sedating” in Bloom’s description, which matches consumer feedback that it’s a perfect evening or stress-relief dab. An Illinois medical patient who tried a Papaya-derived extract wrote “Papaya… me likey. Very relaxing without knocking me out”. In Maryland, where Evermore released Papaya cold cure, local reviews highlighted the “deeply relaxing effects and blissful mood lift” it provided. Generally, these fruity rosins are not the absolute strongest THC monsters (often around 65-75% THC), but the entourage effect of the terpenes makes the high notably enjoyable and long-lasting. People often mention they can take a big dab because the flavor is so smooth, and then the high “creeps up” into a strong stone. For example, one user on r/rosin humorously recounted taking a large Strawberry Guava dab and being surprised that “by the time I exhaled that tropical goodness, I was absolutely zooted”. This combination of smooth smoke and potent effect is a big part of the appeal.

• Community “hype” and social media: In the solventless subculture, certain strains become hyped through social sharing. Papaya was one of those – often referenced in memes and posts as the quintessential hash strain (along with GMO). Wilson had a big hype cycle around 2019–2020 driven by breeder Masonic Smoker on IG, who showcased its huge yields and crazy fruit terps; this led to many hashmakers hunting Wilson seeds and posting their results. On Discord channels, growers swap hash yield data – strains like Strawberry Guava frequently get shoutouts for hitting 5% yields, which in those circles is like hitting a home run. Zkittlez, interestingly, has a split reputation: connoisseurs love the flavor, but many also joke about its low yield (“Z-terps so good, but R.I.P. your wash”). It’s common to see comments like “ran 3k fresh frozen Z, got almost nothing back, never again unless it’s for personal”. Thus, some in the community regard Zkittlez rosin as a special treat, not a staple. Guava (Gelato) isn’t as meme-famous, but when someone posts a beautiful jar of Guava rosin, replies often note “that Guava terps are something else, so underrated”. There’s also cross-pollination from general cannabis fans: people who maybe tried a Guava flower pre-roll or a Papaya cart and got interested in the strain, eventually seeking out the rosin. For instance, a Michigan user posted “I’ve got a 710 Labs Guava live rosin cart I’m about to start soon”, to which others replied with envy and advice to try specific other Guava crosses. This shows that even newcomers associate “Guava” with a quality experience.

• Comparisons to other strains: Enthusiasts often compare fruit-forward rosin strains to each other. Papaya vs. GMO (garlic cookies) is a frequent debate – with many saying Papaya wins on flavor whereas GMO might win on sheer potency or yield. Papaya vs. Tropicana Cookies: Tropicana has a sharp orange candy flavor, but some find it a bit one-dimensional and prefer the fuller tropical profile of Papaya or StrawGuava. Strawberry Guava vs. Strawberry Banana: Strawberry Banana (Strawnana) was a popular fruity strain in BHO, but in hash form Strawberry Guava is typically considered more complex and gassier, which people appreciate. One forum member stated “Strawberry Guava S1 from Bloom is on another level – it’s like Strawbanana got a facelift with Papaya’s terps and hash yield”. Wilson vs. others: Wilson got praise for combining multiple fruit flavors, but some comment that certain Wilson phenos can be too citrusy (from the Tropicanna influence) and they prefer the “creamier” Papaya or Guava. Overall, it’s a friendly rivalry – all these strains are well-loved, and personal preference of flavor is the deciding factor. Crucially, the solventless community has almost universally positive sentiment for Guava, Papaya, Strawberry Guava, etc. You’ll rarely find someone say a bad word about the quality or experience; the criticisms only come in terms of cultivation or price (e.g. “I wish more growers would run these” or “Zkittlez isn’t worth the wash loss unless you really want the flavor”).

• User anecdotes: A few illustrative quotes from the community:

  • “Strawberry Guava is a staple – legacy hash rosin powerhouse… love it.” (High praise from a Canadian hash connoisseur, calling it a must-have strain.)

  • “I really like the Papaya ones! Haven’t tried Guava, totally would.” (Illinois consumer expressing excitement for these flavors, indicating unmet demand in some markets.)

  • “Grabbed Guava Papaya and Lemon Cherry Gelato, both of which are 8.5/10.” (An Arizona review of a homegrown rosin drop, showing Guava Papaya can stand alongside other trendy strains and still score high.)

  • “You’re supposed to use the empty jar after you’re done I think lol” – “Probz. lol” (A lighthearted exchange about Gratitude Gardens Guava Gelato packaging that included a reusable glass jar carb-cap – highlighting how engaged and niche the solventless community is, discussing even the jars and accessories that come with their beloved rosin.)

  • “Update: if you see it on sale, try it. You will not be disappointed if you like those dank but fruity terps.” (Reddit user “Grouchy-Silver” updating others after trying Guava Gelato rosin – essentially giving it a strong recommendation.)

These anecdotes capture the enthusiasm and almost cult-like following these strains have. Consumers often become evangelists for a strain once they’ve experienced it – urging friends or forum-mates to try it when available. This word-of-mouth has propelled strains like Papaya and Strawberry Guava into top-tier status among concentrate aficionados.

One can conclude that Guava and Papaya strains have earned a stellar reputation: they satisfy the seasoned hash heads with flavor and effect, yet are approachable and enjoyable for less experienced users as well. The community sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, tinged only by the desire to see more of these strains in the market. As one forum user in IL humorously put it when discussing lack of Guava/Papaya offerings: “That sounds perfect to me (sativa lean gelato part) – I’m down! Why are no cultivators growing weed like that??”. The good news is, cultivators are catching on, and the solventless scene in 2025 is rich with these tropical flavors – much to the delight of consumers.

Comparison with Other Popular Fruit-Forward Rosin Strains

Finally, to put the Guava family in context, it’s helpful to compare them to a few other famed fruit-centric strains in the rosin world – namely Papaya, Strawberry Guava, Wilson, and Zkittlez (all mentioned above). Here’s how they stack up against each other:

• Papaya – The Benchmark: Papaya (especially the Oni Noodles/710 Labs cut of Nirvana’s Papaya) has become synonymous with solventless. It is renowned for 5-6% hash yields, insane terpene levels, and a deeply relaxing effect profile. Its flavor is pure tropical fruit smoothie – often described as ripe mango/papaya with a hint of funk. Papaya’s high is stoney and calm; it’s an indica-hybrid that can induce couch-lock in high doses, yet many find it functional enough in moderation (the uplifting fruitiness balances the heavy myrcene couchlock). In terms of rosin color/texture, Papaya usually produces a beautifully blonde badder that is very stable. It’s often the yardstick against which other fruit strains are measured: e.g., “Does it yield like Papaya? Does it taste as loud as Papaya?” are common questions. Papaya remains one of the most popular and widely available solventless strains – from California to Michigan, you’ll find multiple producers offering it. If Guava strains are a newer trend, Papaya is the established OG of fruit rosin. That said, the Guava crosses often build on Papaya’s strengths – many prefer the Papaya x Guava combination for adding complexity to Papaya’s pure fruit. In summary, Papaya has bigger yields and a danker, heavier effect than most straight “Guava” cuts (since original Guava Gelato is more balanced/sativa). It’s the go-to for maximum output and tropical punch.

• Strawberry Guava – The Amplified Hybrid: Technically we’ve included StrawGuava among the Guava strains, but it’s worth comparing to others. Strawberry Guava is essentially Papaya 2.0 with a twist: it brings in the strawberry/berry notes from Strawberry Banana and perhaps a touch of creamy cheese from somewhere, layered on top of Papaya’s base of funk and sweetness. Many hash connoisseurs rank Strawberry Guava’s flavor even higher than Papaya – it’s often described as more nuanced. One review said “StrawGuava has that starburst candy flavor with a bit of funky depth that Papaya alone doesn’t have”. In terms of yield, it’s on par with Papaya (massive yields, as discussed). Effect-wise, Strawberry Guava might be slightly more uplifting (owing to the Strawberry Banana influence) but still very relaxing overall. So one could say Papaya = tropical knockout, Strawberry Guava = tropical knockout with a strawberry candy top note. Both are elite; if you like one, you’ll likely love the other. Strawberry Guava has quickly risen in popularity (especially after those competition wins), whereas Papaya’s reputation is long-solidified. Growers sometimes report Strawberry Guava is a bit more finicky (slightly longer flowering, and phenos vary more than the stable Nirvana Papaya clone), but the end product is arguably one of the best tasting rosins on earth – and many in the community will attest to that.

• Wilson – The New-Age Fruit Salad: Wilson (often with an exclamation “Wilson!”) is essentially a poly-hybrid fruit cocktail made by Oni Seed Co/Masonic (Papaya #3 × Banana OG, then crossed to Tropicanna Cookies F1). The idea was to combine three of the tastiest strains. How does it compare? Wilson brings strong citrus/orange from Tropicanna, creamy banana from Banana OG, and funky tropical papaya from Papaya. The result is a complex aroma – some phenos lean more orange-peel, others more banana-papaya. Wilson is excellent for hash (as noted, it’s high-yielding and made for that purpose) and has been embraced by many solventless makers. Versus Papaya: Wilson can have a brighter, more acidic fruit smell (thanks to limonene/terpinolene from Tropicanna) whereas Papaya is heavier and muskier. Some users find Wilson slightly more stimulating – Tropicanna Cookies adds a bit of sativa kick – so the high can be a tad more uplifting or creative initially, before settling into Papaya’s relaxation. A top Wilson phenotype that combines pink/purple hues with fruit and dough terps is considered the grail, offering both bag appeal and flavor. In discussions, Wilson is often compared to “fruit cereal” or “fruit salad” whereas Papaya is “pure papaya” and Strawberry Guava is “candy tropical”. Wilson hasn’t entirely dethroned Papaya in popularity, but it’s a strong contender and has its own fanbase. It’s also spawned sub-phenos like Wilson Zero (selected by Oni) which specifically emphasized the fruit and yield – described as “strong aroma of oranges, bananas, peaches… ideal for hash”. So Wilson versus the Guava strains: Wilson includes Papaya in it, but no direct “Guava Gelato” genetics. If one were to compare Wilson vs. Strawberry Guava – the former has more orange/banana, the latter more strawberry/guava; both wash great. Some hash circles mix the two for an ultra-fruit blend.

• Zkittlez – The Candy Temptress: The Original Z (Zkittlez) is a bit of the odd one out here, being an older strain (Emerald Cup 2016 winner) known for incredible candy flavor but poor yields. Zkittlez’s taste is often described as a bag of Skittles candy – sweet, grape, tropical, with a diesel twist. In rosin form, a well-made Zkittlez can be sublime: it’s one of those flavors that coats your mouth. However, as discussed, it’s notoriously hard to get a lot of rosin from it. Many producers simply don’t bother running pure Zkittlez for hash unless it’s a passion project or a small batch, because economically it’s risky (sub-3% yields in many cases). Instead, breeders created crosses like Zoap (Zkittlez × Rainbow Sherbet) and Zkittlez Cake, or the aforementioned combos like Strawberry Guava × Zkittlez, to try to carry over the Z terps into a more hash-y plant. How does Zkittlez compare to Papaya/Guava strains in experience? The flavor profiles are actually complementary: Zkittlez is more grape candy / floral whereas Papaya/Guava are creamy tropical. Some veteran dabbers say Zkittlez rosin can be a little lighter on impact – perhaps because Zkittlez is often mid-Teens THC in flower and has a lot of terps, the rosin might not feel as potent as a Papaya which often has higher THC content. Also, Zkittlez’s main terps (caryophyllene, humulene, linalool) give it a more calming indica effect despite the sweet taste. A Papaya dab might hit heavier in the body, but Zkittlez can be quite sedative too. In popularity, Zkittlez still holds a mystique and is beloved by flavor chasers – but in the hash community, it’s somewhat of a rare treat. In contrast, Papaya and Strawberry Guava are almost staples. When comparing, one might say: Zkittlez = unparalleled candy flavor but low supply, Papaya/Guava = abundant tropical flavor with high supply. Ideally, a hash connoisseur wants both on their shelf – Zkittlez for that special dessert dab, Papaya or Guava for the daily driver dabs.

In summary, here’s a quick head-to-head of these fruit-forward rosin stars:

• Papaya: Tropical mango/papaya smoothie flavor; highest yields; heavy relaxing indica high. The solventless workhorse and fan-favorite for its combination of quantity and quality.

• Strawberry Guava: Tropical candy and guava flavor with hints of strawberry and cream; equally high yields; euphoric and relaxing high with unique sweet-cheesy undertone. Considered by many as Papaya’s more exotic cousin – just as productive with a sweeter terp profile.

• Wilson: Fruit salad medley (orange, banana, papaya) flavor; very high yields (bred for hash); balanced hybrid effects with initial uplift then chill. A modern polyhybrid that has rapidly gained respect – the choice for those who want ALL the fruit terps at once.

• Zkittlez: Candy rainbow flavor (grape, citrus, tropical candy); low yields (not washer-friendly); calming indica effects with happy vibes. A legendary taste that is hard to obtain in rosin form – often enjoyed via crosses or carts instead.

All of these strains have advanced the fruit terpene revolution in the hash world. They each have their niche: Papaya and Strawberry Guava for the solventless purists wanting big returns, Wilson for the adventurous seeking a new blend, and Zkittlez for the flavor purists willing to sacrifice yield. Importantly, they aren’t really competitors so much as complements – many top hash makers rotate multiple fruit strains to keep consumers excited. It’s common to see a brand’s menu offer a Papaya, a StrawGuava, and a Zkittlez or Wilson, each appealing in different ways (Papaya for creamy gas, StrawGuava for sweet candy, Z for true candy).

In the end, what unites them is the fruit-forward profile that has become immensely popular among rosin enthusiasts. These strains have proven that cannabis extracts can taste like a tropical fruit stand or a candy store, without any additives – just the natural terpenes of the plant. As solventless technology and cultivation continue to improve, we’re likely to see even more creative hybrids (e.g. recent lines combining Papaya with Grapes (for a “grape guava” profile) or Strawberry Guava with GMO (for a “tropical funk” mix)) – all aiming to push the envelope of flavor and yield. The success of Guava and Papaya strains in rosin form has essentially kickstarted a new wave of breeding focused squarely on loud flavor + high hash yield, a trend that is clearly here to stay, much to the delight of concentrate consumers everywhere.

Sources:

• Bloom Seed Co – Strawberry Guava description and awards

• Good Life Cannabis – Sherbinski’s Guava Gelato info

• Leafly Strain Info – Guava (Cookies), Guava Pie, Zkittlez

• SeedFinder & breeder data – Guava Pie (Bloom) traits, Equilibrium’s Guava Gelato lineage

• Hawaiian Budline – Pink-Paya (Guava × Papaya cross) description

• Hashtek article – solventless strain yields (Papaya, Strawberry Guava >5% FF yield)

• Reddit r/rosin and r/ILTrees threads – consumer reviews & price reports

• BDSA Market Report – Rosin market share and pricing trends

• Hashwriter.org – CA hash pricing overview