What Are the Different Species of Cannabis?

Cannabis, a plant with a long history of human use, has been classified into three main species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Each species has unique characteristics that influence its growth habits and potentially its effects. Let's dive in to briefly explore each classification type, and then take a look at the factors that influence a cannabis' cultivar's effects.

Cannabis Sativa

Sativa plants are typically found in warm, tropical regions, and are native to Africa, Central America, Southeast Asia, and Western Asia. They are known for their tall stature, narrow leaves, and uplifting effects. Sativa strains are often associated with promoting creativity, focus, and energy. They tend to have higher levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, making them popular for daytime use.

Cannabis Indica

Indica plants, native to colder regions such as Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, are shorter and bushier than sativa plants. They have broader leaves and are often associated with calming and sedative effects. Indica strains are frequently used for relaxation, pain relief, and sleep. They tend to have higher levels of CBD, a non-psychoactive compound that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.

Cannabis Ruderalis

Ruderalis is a smaller, hardier plant that originated in Russia or Eastern Europe, the Himalayan regions of India, and Siberia. It's known for its ability to grow in tough conditions and its auto-flowering trait, meaning it doesn't rely on light cycles to flower. Ruderalis strains are typically lower in THC than sativa and indica, making them less psychoactive. They are often bred with other species to create hybrids that auto-flower.

Hybrids

Most cannabis strains today are hybrids, combining genetics from both sativa and indica. The balance of sativa and indica influences the strain's effects, with sativa-dominant hybrids leaning towards uplifting and energizing effects, while indica-dominant hybrids tend to be more relaxing and sedative. Hybrids offer a wide range of effects to suit different preferences and needs.

The Factors of Effect

It's important to note that the classification of cannabis species is a complex and ongoing area of research, and individual cannabis plants can produce different effects, regardless of their classification as "indica," "sativa," or "hybrid." The specific effects depend on the plant's unique chemical makeup and the cultivation techniques used. The cannabis cultivar's unique cannabinoids, terpenes, and even specifically aroma, all may play a much larger role than the cannabis' species in determining the effects of the cultivar on a consumer.

Some cannabis experts are even abandoning the traditional "indica," "sativa," and "hybrid" classifications in favor of a new system that categorizes strains based on their chemical composition (sometimes referred to as chemovar). This new system divides strains into three types: Type I, high in THC; Type II, containing both THC and CBD; and Type III, high in CBD.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, so too does our understanding of the plant's diversity and complexity. While the traditional "indica," "sativa," and "hybrid" classifications provide a basic framework, it's increasingly clear that the specific effects of a cannabis strain are determined by a multitude of factors, including its unique chemical composition and the cultivation techniques used. Additionally, factors such as a cultivar’s grade, assessed and captured by organizations like the International Cannabis & Hemp Standards (ICHS), can offer far greater insight while presenting a more complete picture of cannabis’ quality. These grades are then communicated to buyers on markets such as Tamerlane's to provide greater transparency and trust to consumers. By delving deeper into the science behind cannabis and the unique qualities of each harvest, we can gain a more nuanced appreciation for the plant's potential benefits and applications.

Tamerlane Staff

Tamerlane Trading is the first quality-verified cannabis marketplace. Our team of cannabis professionals are dedicated to trust and transparency in the cannabis industry.