Unlike what many people would believe, there are different types of marijuana out there to buy in dispensaries near me. Even though we may refer to these types simply as “marijuana” in our day-to-day conversations, it is important to know the differences between the different types of weed plants. That is because each type offers different effects and outcomes when consumed. One will make you relaxed, while another will make you energetic.
Before we move on to talking about the different types of weed plants, however, it is important to know that marijuana itself refers to those parts or products from the Cannabis plant that have significant amounts of THC. So, the categorizations of marijuana we see come from different types of the Cannabis plant and are named simply after those plant types.
Cannabis Sativa
Cannabis Sativa usually has lower amounts of THC and higher amounts of CBD. However, there are strains that have more THC as well. Sativa strains are characterized by their tall height and narrow leaves. These plants are believed to originate from tropical regions like South America and Africa, and they normally require more light to grow than other types.
From a usage perspective, marijuana Sativa strains are commonly associated with providing a sense of energy and positivity to consumers. These effects make Sativa more suitable for morning or daytime use.
As far as growing it is concerned, Sativa has a flowering period of 10 to 12 weeks with some strains needing up to 16 weeks to reach maturity. The plants also require a lot of light for the flowering process to start.
Cannabis Indica
In any conversation about Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid marijuana types, Sativa and Indica are usually the opposites in terms of the effects offered. Indica strains are generally believed to have come from the Asian region. These are smaller plants with thicker and broader leaves. They also often have a strong smell than Sativa plants. Indica marijuana usually has higher THC content and lower CBD content but strains with high CBD values also exist.
The most common effects associated with Indica weed are those of relaxation and sleepiness. It also makes users sedated and offers that characteristic ‘stoned’ feeling. Because of this, people usually prefer to consume Indica weed in the evening or at night when they want to wind down and sleep.
Indica cannabis usually has a shorter flowering time than Sativa. The buds can be ready in 6 to 10 weeks and these plants are easier to grow because they are more resistant to moisture and changes in light, etc.
Cannabis Ruderalis
Believed to have come from Southern Russia, Ruderalis strains have low THC content and are not as popular among cannabis users as Sativa or Indica. This is an auto-flowering plant which means that it can produce flowers regardless of how much light it gets. Even though Ruderalis strains are not consumed like other types of marijuana, they are still used to make fibers and oils.
Hybrid Cannabis
One of the most popular among the different types of weed plants is hybrid cannabis. As the name suggests, it is bred to have characteristics of more than one natural type of cannabis. Most often, Sativa and Indica strains are used to breed hybrids to achieve the ideal combination of energizing and relaxing effects.
The first hybrid was developed back in 1959 and was made possible because of the seedless cultivation technology that was developing. The very first known hybrid was called Skunk #1 and it gave way to many more that were created over the years and are still being created. Other hybrid cannabis strains include Greasy Monkey Strain, Afghani, Master Kush, The White strain and more. Hybrid cannabis is great for consumers in the sense that each new strain can provide very different effects coming from both Sativa and Indica marijuana along with a complex terpene profile.
The Importance of Terpenes
Whenever considering the different types of cannabis to consume, take note of the terpene profile they have. Terpenes are essentially oily residues that exist in parts of the cannabis plant. These contribute heavily to how each strain smells and tastes. Not only that but terpenes have been found to have a significant impact on the effects that weed provides. Some have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects while others can help boost one’s energy. So, while Sativa and Indica are the main categories of marijuana, the different terpenes in the strains you choose can change the overall effects significantly.
Conclusion
Each type of marijuana that is available today for consumption or other use has its own particular effects. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing day in or go out and get some work done, we hope that this Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid cannabis guide has helped you understand a little more about what you can expect from each type. Knowing this information can help you make better decisions about your cannabis-related choices and you can get more out of your experience.