Friday 5 June 2020

Different Types of Marijuana Strains Explained

Marijuana, just like any other plant, has various different species and subspecies. But how many types are actually there?

The question is very simple. But the answer… not so much!

See, it all depends on who you are asking. Every person defines the types of cannabis differently. And it’s actually totally understandable, given how complicated this topic can be. The cannabis plant has several categories. And each category has further sub-classifications. Once the plant reaches this level, it is divided into strain types. And that’s where things get extra complicated.

Confusing, right? Don’t worry, it happens. And that’s why we have made this simplified guide for you to understand exactly how many different cannabis types are there.

So let’s move on to the task.

Understanding Marijuana and its Strains

The type of marijuana that we usually consume for its medicinal benefits, and that gives us that psychoactive feeling, is what the 420 doctors call “the cannabis plant.” This plant is further categorized into three main types: Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis.

Though we don’t have clear evidence of the differences between these strains, cannabis enthusiasts believe this division to be true. This is because all these marijuana types look and act differently. Let’s see how a medical marijuana doctor distinguishes between these three species of cannabis.

Cannabis Sativa


This particular type of cannabis is probably the easiest to recognize of all three. The Sativa plants usually grow very tall (up to 15 feet sometimes). They have a lot of sparsely packed branches, which are generally pointing upward. And the leaves of this plant tend to be narrow and long, giving it a somewhat delicate look.

Sativa cannabis has its origins in India. And it thrives well in warmer climates. The high this type of cannabis produces is usually more energizing, which induces productivity, focus, and creativity. Though it takes a lot of time for this species to become ready for harvesting, it is actually worth the wait because the yield is much more sizable than that of the other two. Furthermore, it can help people with various medical conditions including stress, depression, ADD/ADHD, pain, etc.

Cannabis Indica


The Indica species strains are actually quite different from the Sativa ones, both in looks and effects. It grows at max up to 6 feet in height, with an average of just 3 feet. However, it makes up for its low height with its dense and bushy appearance, which is filled with delicious nugs and colas. The leaves of cannabis Indica are plumper and wider looking. And it gives the plant a much sturdier look.

The yield from Indica cannabis certainly cannot match the Sativa in terms of quantity. However, quality wise, it can give you a superb output if they are kept with good care.

In terms of its effects, Indica strains are quite relaxing and tend to calm your body and mind down. These strains can help you fight various medical conditions, like insomnia, pain, anxiety, mood disorders, etc.

Cannabis Ruderalis


Cannabis Ruderalis is probably the least famous species of all three cannabis types. And the reason behind this is that it is mostly used by breeders only to breed it with other species in order to produce some specific effects.

Ruderalis are usually very short in height, at an average of around 20 to 25 inches. And just like Indica, they have a dense structure. They are not very psychotropic in nature. However, they do have an auto-flowering effect, which makes it a good genetic material to be combined with certain breeds to give them some useful characteristics.

In addition to these three primaries, there are many other types of cannabis that are made by breeding these three only. And here are a few famous classifications:
  •     The Hazes
  •     The Kushes
  •     The Diesels
  •     The Heirloom strains

All these strains have many different strains. So, in reality, it’s actually impossible to give the types of strains that exist a particular number. However, we do know that the main three species are Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis.

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