Main Features of Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis Varieties of Cannabis

We all know that there are three main varieties of cannabis and they are known as sativa, indica, and ruderalis. For decades now, breeders have made a cross-breeding of these three and produced hybrids, F1s, and so on in the process. In-breeding, cross-breeding, and back-crossing of weed plants have been the order of the day for many years now but it doesn't mean there is no more need to go back and have a glimpse of the differences between the three and what made it necessary to cross breed them.

Sativa

This is the tallest of the three cannabis varieties and has the longest growing and flowering cycle. It can grow to as high as 20 feet in some instances and may need to be trimmed or staked during the blooming stage to prevent its thin branches from breaking. Pot plants of sativa variety are known for giving an uplifting cerebral high when smoked. It induces a happy and energetic feeling which makes it an ideal daily smoke for some smokers.

Indica

This variety does not grow as tall as a sativa and the most it can reach is about 8 feet in most cases. It has broad leaves and can grow with strong and multiple branches making it bushy with lots of dark green leaves. Weed Plants of indica lineage will induce a physical stoned feeling when smoked. It Fosters a numbing and relaxing sensation that can sometimes send the smoker to dreamland. Strong indicas can give a strong narcotic and couchlock effect.

Ruderalis

This is the shortest among the three cannabis varieties. It has almost no THC content and therefore has no recreational value to smokers. Unlike sativa and indica, it is highly pest resistant and has auto-flowering characteristics. It will start to flower regardless of the environment it is in and is not mindful of light and dark cycle.

When breeders cross a ruderalis with either sativa or indica or both, the main purpose is to harness its pest resistance and auto-flowering features. The THC potency may be lessened in the first crossing due to the fact that ruderalis has no THC content but this can be remedied in later crossings of the marijuana plants to increase its potency.

What makes a ruderalis variety pest-resistant?

It has something to do with its genetics plus the fact that it has very little features that are attractive to pests and parasites but it also has its natural predators just like other plants.