All cannabis can be classified into three different species: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Each species has their own set of strains (eg. Og Kush, Purple Haze, Pineapple Express, etc.) and desirable traits (eg. a sativa high stimulates brain activity, but an indica high loosens your limbs). Strains can be bred together to form a blend of traits. This blended strain is called a hybrid.
Typically, cannabis Indica plants are short, bushy plants with wide leaves. Indica plants typically grow faster and have a higher yield than the sativa variety. Medicine produced from cannabis Indica plants have higher CBD and lower THC counts.
The major qualities of Indica medicinal strains include:
Cannabis Sativa plants are opposite of the Indica strains and grow tall and thin with narrow leaves. Sativa plants are also generally a lighter shade of green then their counterpart, the indica strain. Sativa strains take longer to grow, mature, and require more light. Medicine produced from cannabis Sativa plants have lower CBD and higher THC counts.
The major qualities of Indica medicinal strains include:
This is where Hybrids come in. You’ve probably noticed how Hybrid cultivars have become as prominent as Indicas and Sativas, if not more so. It’s a sign that cannabis marketing is catching up to reality.
All modern cultivars are technically hybrids, but the plants we officially classify as Hybrids are the intentional crossbreeds of Indicas and Sativas, designed to produce specific qualities and effects. Often, budtenders recommend Hybrids for their highly specialized effects, flavors, and aromas.
