SKIP AHEAD TO:
- Four Strain Types
- Modern Classification
- Historical Classification
- Indoor vs Outdoor Growing
- Heirloom & Landrace Strains
Cannabis genetics come in four core types: indica, sativa, ruderalis, and hybrid. In practice, 100% pure strains are rare. Most options today are hybrids that suit diverse environments.
Below, we break down each type—growth patterns, effects, and what makes them different—so you can pick strains that suit your climate and goals.
1. Four Cannabis Strain Types
• Cannabis sativa
- Growth: Tall, thin, narrow leaves. Graceful and lanky.
- Flowering: Longer cycles—ideal for warm, longer seasons.
- Effect: Uplifting, cerebral, energizing—great for socialising or creativity.
• Cannabis indica
- Growth: Short, bushy, broad leaves. Compact footprint.
- Flowering: Shorter cycles—suited for cooler, shorter-season climates.
- Effect: Heavy relaxation, "couchlock" vibes—perfect for evening use.
• Cannabis ruderalis
- Growth: Short, hardy, wide-leafed. Naturally auto-flowering.
- Effect: Lower THC—but essential for fast-flowering hybrids.
• Hybrids
- Growth: Custom mixes—can lean indica, sativa, or be balanced.
- Effect: Tailored highs—genuine variety from couchlock to cerebral.
- Feature: Often auto-flowering thanks to ruderalis genetics.
2. Modern Classification
Today’s cannabis labels (indica, sativa, hybrid) often reflect perceived effects—not genetics. High THC or CBD, individual terpene profiles, and personal biochemistry play a bigger role than plant lineage.
3. Historical Classification
Botanically, Cannabis sativa was the tall hemp plant, Cannabis indica was the intoxicating plant from Hindu Kush, and Cannabis ruderalis was the hardy auto-flowering weed. These subspecies date back centuries. Modern breeding has blurred their lines.
4. Indoor vs Outdoor Growing
- Indica-dominant: Compact plants thrive indoors or tight spaces.
- Sativa-dominant: Taller, better outdoors with long seasons.
Hybrid and auto-flowering strains now offer the best of both worlds—adaptable to various environments and grow setups.
5. Heirloom & Landrace Strains
Landraces are indigenous, naturally selected strains—like Durban, Malawi, or Afghan—cultivated for centuries in one region. Heirlooms are landraces planted elsewhere and adapted locally over generations. Both offer pure genetics prized by breeders and connoisseurs.
Bottom Line
Modern cannabis is mostly hybrid: indica- or sativa-leaning, or auto. This variety reflects breeding advances. Choosing a strain? Match your grow conditions and desired effects. Need help? Browse our top picks like Strawberry Amnesia, The New, or Blue Widow.
Start with quality genetics from trusted sources and learn more in our Ultimate Guide to Buying Weed Seeds or Cannabis 101 series. Still got questions? Contact us.
