Green, White, Red and Gold Kratom: What's the Difference?

Where the colors come from

Kratom leaves have a center vein that can be red, green or white depending on the leaf's maturity. Growers sort leaves by vein color and dry them in different ways, and the strain names you see on a tap wall come from that.

How people describe each color

White: often described as the most upbeat and energizing. Popular as a daytime drink.

Green: commonly called the middle ground: a bit of energy, a bit of calm.

Red: usually described as the most relaxing. Many people save it for evenings.

Gold: usually leaves dried longer or a blend of colors, and often described as mellow.

Everyone's different, and the same strain can feel different depending on how much you have and whether you've eaten. Start light.

How to choose your first kratom strain

Tell your kava tender what kind of night you want. Studying or socializing? They may point you to white or green. Winding down after work? Red is a common pick. At our bars we mix kratom with juices and sodas, so you can pick a flavor too.

A quick safety note

Kratom can lead to dependence with heavy daily use (see kratom addiction and withdrawal), and you must be 21+ to buy it in Florida. Don't mix it with alcohol or other sedatives, and talk to your doctor if you take medication.

This article is for general education only and isn't medical or legal advice. Statements about kava, kratom and kanna have not been evaluated by the FDA, and these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Kava & Company serves kava to guests 18+. Florida law requires buyers of kratom to be 21+.