Cannabis ruderalis is one of the three main subspecies of the cannabis plant, alongside Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica.
Here are some key characteristics of Cannabis ruderalis:
Origin and Habitat: Ruderalis is believed to have originated in Central and Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. It typically grows in harsh conditions and is often found in areas where other plants struggle to survive.
Physical Characteristics: Ruderalis plants are usually smaller and more compact than sativa and indica plants, with thinner leaves and a shorter stature. They often have a more rugged appearance.
Autoflowering Trait: One of the most notable characteristics of ruderalis is its ability to autoflower. This means it can flower based on age rather than light cycle, making it easier to grow in a variety of conditions. This trait has been bred into many modern hybrids.
THC and CBD Content: Generally, ruderalis strains tend to have lower levels of THC compared to sativa and indica strains. However, they often contain higher levels of CBD, which can be beneficial for therapeutic purposes.
Hybridization: Cannabis ruderalis is often crossed with sativa and indica strains to create hybrids that inherit the autoflowering trait while also having desirable levels of THC and CBD.
Uses: While ruderalis itself is not commonly used for recreational purposes due to its lower THC content, its unique traits make it valuable in breeding programs aimed at creating new strains with specific characteristics.
Overall, Cannabis ruderalis plays an important role in the cannabis world, particularly in the development of autoflowering strains that are easier to cultivate.