The two main genetic categories into which cannabis is divided are Indica and Sativa. However, most strains today are hybrids, that is, crosses between the two subspecies. There is also Ruderalis genetics, which form the basis for autoflowering strains, as well as CBD-rich strains. It is important to understand that the boundaries here are often fluid and the classifications have considerable overlap.

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In the past, the distinction between indica and sativa was used to classify both the morphology of a plant and its effects, but today we know that terpene and cannabinoid content is the main determinant of a strain's physical and mental effects.

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Indica strains are stocky, bushy, and are usually associated with physical, relaxing highs. Cannabis indica flowers grow thick, dense, and have dark green hues. In terms of cultivation, indica-dominant strains tend to be high yielders, flower quickly, and require less maintenance than sativa strains. In terms of flavor, pure indica strains are often characterized by heavy, dark flavors reminiscent of earth and pine.

Sativas , on the other hand, are tall, spacey, and typically produce terpenes that produce an energetic and uplifting high. Although selective breeding has made some improvements in this area, sativas have much longer life cycles than indicas and can be difficult to control indoors.

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On its own, Ruderalis genetics are not of much interest to cannabis consumers, as the plants are small, weak and low-yielding. However, they have one specific characteristic that is indispensable: as an adaptation to the cold, dark regions from which Cannabis Ruderalis originates, this species has developed the ability to flower automatically after a certain period of time, and is not dependent on light conditions.

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