Cannabis ruderalis is one of the three primary classifications of the cannabis plant, alongside sativa and indica. Ruderalis is the least commonly known and utilized type of cannabis, and it is often considered a subspecies or variety of Cannabis sativa.
Ruderalis plants are native to regions with harsh environmental conditions, particularly in parts of Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Russia. They are adapted to short growing seasons, colder climates, and less sunlight, which gives them unique characteristics compared to indica and sativa plants.
One of the distinctive traits of ruderalis is its auto-flowering ability. Unlike sativa and indica plants, which typically flower in response to changes in light cycles, ruderalis plants enter the flowering stage based on their age rather than the photoperiod. This means that ruderalis plants will automatically flower after a certain number of weeks, regardless of the amount of daylight they receive. This trait is of interest to cannabis breeders, as it allows for more rapid and flexible cultivation.
In terms of cannabinoids and effects, ruderalis plants tend to have lower THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content than sativa and indica strains. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. However, ruderalis may have higher levels of CBD (cannabidiol) compared to other types, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid known for its potential therapeutic properties.
Due to its lower THC content and auto-flowering nature, cannabis ruderalis is not typically grown for recreational use but has been used in hybrid breeding to create strains that incorporate the auto-flowering trait. These hybrid strains are known as “auto-flowering strains” and are popular among some growers for their ease of cultivation and shorter flowering times.
It’s important to note that the distinction between cannabis species and varieties (sativa, indica, ruderalis) has been a subject of debate and revision in the scientific community. Additionally, many cannabis strains available today are hybrids, combining traits from multiple classifications. The legal status of cannabis, including ruderalis strains, can vary depending on the jurisdiction, so it’s essential to be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations.
