Sativa and indica are the two main varieties of cannabis plants, while the classification of ruderalis is still debated, whether it’s considered a species or subspecies. Ruderalis comes with a unique set of characteristics and growth patterns, making it distinct from its cannabis relatives.
The origin of Cannabis Ruderalis
Ruderalis strains are said to be native to Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and Central Asia. The name Ruderalis originates from the term “ruderal,“ which describes plants that grow wild in barren environments or waste areas.
Cannabis Ruderalis is known for its adaptability to harsher environments with colder climates and shorter summers.
Effects and properties of Cannabis Ruderalis
Ruderalis contains significantly lower levels of cannabinoids, important psychoactive compounds found in every cannabis plant. The THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) levels are always on the low side, with roughly 3% compared to sativa and indica varieties. The CBD (cannabidiol) levels are much higher than the THC content in ruderalis cannabis.
Ruderalis cannabis is the most similar to hemp. Both contain low amounts of THC, but they are not the same plant species. Hemp contains significantly lower levels of THC than ruderalis.
Differences between sativa, indica, and ruderalis
The main difference between ruderalis, sativa, and indica cannabis strains is the different growth patterns and characteristics formed by adapting to their area of origin. The content of cannabinoids and terpene profiles also plays a key role in differentiating the subspecies, each offering unique effects and possible therapeutic benefits.
Sativa thrives in warmer, tropical climates, originating from Southeast Asia and Central America. Indica is more resilient and can grow in drier climates. It is said that Indica originates from Central Asia, more specifically, Afghanistan.
The effects of Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica
Cannabinoids and terpene profiles are considered key elements that shape the consumption experience.
Indica classification is described as relaxing, with higher CBD in some cases, but it varies by strain. It’s considered a “downer” due to its relaxing and calming properties. Indica offers therapeutic benefits, and it’s often used for helping with insomnia, chronic pain, epilepsy, and inflammation.
Sativa contains high levels of THC in some cases and may offer energizing effects.
| Cannabis variety | Sativa | Indica | Ruderalis |
| Appearance | Tall plant with thin, long leaves | Shorter plant with wide, short leaves | Short plant with wide leaves |
| Growth cycle | 10 to 16 weeks | 6 to 9 weeks | 10 weeks |
How is Cannabis Ruderalis used?
Due to the low THC content and psychoactive effects, ruderalis is not commonly used for recreational purposes. It can be used for medicinal purposes due to moderate levels of CBD.
Cannabis Ruderalis is typically used for crossbreeding and creating strains with optimal genetics, potency, and growth patterns. Ruderalis can be crossed with quality indica, sativa, or hybrid strains.
Hybrid strains
Hybrid strains are created by crossing sativa and indica plants. The appearance, flavor, and ratio of cannabinoids (CBD-to-THC ratio) depend on the dominant traits of each plant.
Because of their blended nature, hybrid strains can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or a balance of both. Ruderalis genes can be used to enhance hybrid plants and make the cultivation process more effective.
Hybrid strains offer unique effects, depending on the breeding combination. The most common uses are for reducing anxiety and stress due to the balance of relaxing and uplifting benefits.
Benefits of Cannabis Ruderalis
Each cannabis variety has specific characteristics that could be considered beneficial when compared to other varieties.
Below are some of the main advantages of ruderalis cannabis.
Autoflowering
This trait refers to the plant’s ability to go from the growing stage to the flowering process based on age rather than the photoperiod. The plant can flower automatically, regardless of seasonal changes, resulting in a faster harvest that’s available all year round.
Small in size
Ruderalis plants are on the shorter side, reaching between 1 and 3 feet at full maturity. They are considered one of the smallest cannabis plants. Comparatively, sativa plants typically reach between 5 and 10 feet in height.
Resistant to various elements
Ruderalis cannabis can easily adapt to harsh conditions. Its hardiness allows multiple harvests per season or year, regardless of weather or light cycles.
Requires minimal care
Ruderalis is considered a wild cannabis plant that can easily grow in harsh environments and requires low maintenance.
Good for crossbreeding
Ruderalis is a useful asset for breeding new and unique strains. Its resilience, fast growth cycles, and autoflowering trait makes it a good candidate for ruderalis hybrid cultivation.
Ruderalis is not a widely used cannabis species compared to indica and sativa cultivars. But with its fast life cycle, low-maintenance qualities, and autoflowering trait, breeders find it particularly useful for cultivating hybrid strains.
