Permanent Marker, RS11 and Blue Zushi are proof that the “hype exotic” era is in full swing. In 2025, top-shelf shelves from Los Angeles to New York are dominated by a handful of ultra-boutique cultivars that blend elite genetics, limited drops and photogenic bag appeal. For strain collectors and flavor chasers, these three names sit near the top of the wish list.
Permanent Marker: the award-stacking heavy hitter
Permanent Marker has become the poster child for modern exotics. Bred by Doja Exclusive in Los Angeles, this hybrid pulls from a deep dessert-gas family tree that includes Jealousy, Biscotti and Sunset Sherbert. By 2023 it had achieved a rare double-crown run, taking High Times’ “Strain of the Year” in 2022 and Leafly’s Strain of the Year in 2023, a first for any cultivar. Lab and reviewer reports regularly cite THC percentages pushing into the low-30s, with a terpene mix heavy in limonene, myrcene, β-caryophyllene and linalool, creating a loud bouquet of floral candy, fuel and “soapy” perfume.
On the effects side, reviewers describe an assertive, lingering high that starts with euphoric uplift before settling into a deeply stony, introspective body feel. Limited releases, high testing numbers and constant social media coverage keep Permanent Marker firmly in the “must-try” category for serious heads.
RS11 (Rainbow Sherbert #11): candy gas cult classic
RS11, short for Rainbow Sherbert #11, might quietly be the most copied and chased flavor profile in the scene right now. Bred by Deo Farms out of Oakland, its lineage blends Pink Guava, OZK and Sunset Sherbert, resulting in a slightly indica-leaning hybrid that leans hard into candy fruit and creamy gelato notes.
Multiple strain guides highlight RS11’s sweet berry, citrus and vanilla-cream flavors over a base of earth and pepper, driven by limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene. THC typically sits in the 20–26% range, and reviewers praise its ability to deliver relaxed euphoria without total couch-lock, making it a favorite for creative sessions or evening wind-downs. Seed banks and retailers report RS11 seeds and cuts as some of their most requested offerings in both North America and Europe, reinforcing its status as a globally sought-after “exotic.”
Blue Zushi: hype made real
Blue Zushi, popularized by The Ten Co., remains a benchmark for luxury flower. High Times has spotlighted its back-to-back Zalympix wins, noting that it beat out huge fields of competitors in blind tastings, which helped cement its reputation beyond simple Instagram hype. Brand and dispensary profiles describe Blue Zushi as a Zkittlez-dominant, indica-leaning hybrid with up to roughly 34% total cannabinoids, sparkling blue-and-purple buds, and a layered terpene profile that marries sugary candy with gas and earthy depth.
Reviewers consistently highlight its smooth yet powerful high: a happy, calming lift that relaxes body tension without immediately shutting down social energy—ideal for late-night sessions or special occasions. Limited drops, small-batch collaborations and even special “Zushi” seed packs keep demand higher than supply, which only adds to the mystique.
The new definition of “exclusive”
What unites Permanent Marker, RS11 and Blue Zushi is not just high THC or pretty nugs, but a blend of elite genetics, carefully controlled releases and strong storytelling. Awards, breeder reputations and social buzz all fuel demand, and in 2025 these strains represent the top tier of what many connoisseurs consider “grail” flower. For consumers lucky enough to find them on a menu—at a legal shop and within local laws—they offer a snapshot of where modern cannabis breeding, branding and culture are headed next.