Sonoran Roots operates as a vertically integrated, craft cannabis company headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, owning and operating three cultivation facilities, a state-of-the-art extraction lab, and seven retail dispensaries. Their operations span across the Phoenix Valley with Ponderosa dispensary locations in Chandler, Flagstaff, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, Queen Creek, and Tucson.The company's brand portfolio includes three distinct divisions: Sonoran Roots cultivation produces premium flower using top-tier flower that is patiently and properly dried, cured, and hand trimmed, Canamo Concentrates creates award-winning extracts and vape products, and Ponderosa dispensaries offer "high-end, trustworthy, local cannabis products served up deli-style" with their signature CopperTop jars.Sonoran Roots' yield is typically around 1,500 pounds of finished product per month, distributed throughout Arizona's licensed dispensaries. Their distribution division, established in 2024, serves over 160 dispensary locations statewide (90%+ of all dispensaries), making them one of Arizona's most comprehensive cannabis supply chain operators. All products are independently lab tested and comply with Arizona Department of Health Services standards.
Sonoran Roots was founded in March 2020, bringing together "a group of Arizona natives, all longtime friends and medical marijuana industry veterans," led by CEO Michael O'Brien. What started as a collaborative effort between seasoned cannabis professionals—including a boutique cultivator, dispensary owner, equipment supplier, and attorney—has rapidly evolved into one of Arizona's most respected cannabis companies.The timing couldn't have been more challenging, as their first grow cycle launched just two days before pandemic-related shutdowns swept across the country. Despite launching a $10-million facility amid unprecedented uncertainty, Sonoran Roots persevered through their commitment to quality and community.In April 2021, they formally combined forces with Ponderosa Dispensary, which had been serving Arizona patients since 2013, creating a truly vertically integrated operation. The company has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from 50 employees in January 2021 to roughly 175 employees by 2023.Sonoran Roots ranked No. 10 on the Inc. 5000 2023 List with three-year revenue growth of 24,397 percent, cementing their position as one of Arizona's fastest-growing cannabis companies while maintaining their craft approach to cultivation.
Sonoran Roots' mission statement speaks to consistently providing high-quality products and services to customers and dispensaries of Arizona, while making a lasting, positive impact on employees and community. With over 50 years of combined cannabis experience on their executive and leadership team, they operate with integrity, efficiency, and flexibility to differentiate themselves from competition.The company maintains an informal motto of "Work hard, have fun, do the right thing" and prioritizes empowering employees through a shared ownership culture rather than micromanaging. Their commitment extends beyond business success to fostering genuine community impact.Starting with the most exclusive and sought-after genetics, they focus on producing flower that is never treated with chemicals, pesticides, or heavy metals, ensuring Arizona patients and consumers receive clean, compliant cannabis products. Their "unparalleled attention to detail and holistic respect for the plant" drives every aspect of their operation.
At Calm Effect, we're impressed by Sonoran Roots' authentic commitment to craft cannabis cultivation in Arizona. What sets them apart is their ranking as #3 Best Cannabis Companies to Work For - Cultivation by Cannabis Business Times, demonstrating that their quality extends beyond products to workplace culture.Their consistent recognition speaks volumes: 2023 awards for Best Flower Brand (Sonoran Roots), Best Concentrates (Canamo), and Best Dispensary for Service (Ponderosa), plus 2022 wins for Best Flower Brand and Best CBD. This isn't luck—it's the result of their hand-trimmed approach and "pride in maintaining quality and consistency regardless of grow size."For deal-seekers, Sonoran Roots offers exceptional value through their widespread distribution network, making premium Arizona-grown cannabis accessible at competitive prices. Their partnership with 22Red and availability at 40-50 locations statewide means you'll consistently find their award-winning products at great prices through our platform.