Most people are well-aware that there are different types, or strains, of cannabis. However, there are also three key categories that are widely used to organize the various types of cannabis: indica, sativa, and hybrid. 

And even though some cannabis experts suggest that the lines are becoming increasingly blurred between these cannabis types, a solid understanding of each is essential for consumers and cannabusiness owners. 

This guide will explain the core characteristics of sativa, indica, and hybrid cannabis strains, including basic differences between each. Plus, we’ll talk about how we classify cannabis strains might change sooner than you’d think.

Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid: History and Origins

You might find it surprising that the term “sativa” has origins that date back to the mid-1700s. In 1753, scientist Carl Linnaeus published a comprehensive biological classification of all plants known at that time. In his book, he put all cannabis plants under the umbrella of “Cannabis sativa L.” “Cannabis” was the genus, “sativa” was the species, and “L” was for the Linnaeus system. 

Then, in 1785, a French biologist named Jean-Baptiste Lamarck introduced the idea of two distinct cannabis species: Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. The physical structure of each type of marijuana was the primary characteristic used to define these two species definitions. 

Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid: What it Means Today

Now, you know a little more about how these labels started. But how does that translate into the cannabis classification system as we know it now? And exactly what is the difference between indica, sativa, and hybrid strains?

Let’s take a closer look.

Sativa

What is a sativa?

Sativa strains are typically considered the more “energizing” cannabis types, with a reputation for producing a mentally uplifting and stimulating effect, often referred to as a “head high.” Sativas are also popular among consumers interested in boosting their creativity, focus, or motivation. 

• Appearance: Tall, spindly plants that can grow upwards of six feet tall
• Aromas/flavors: Sweet, fruity, and floral elements combined with sour and pine flavors
• Common terpenes: Myrcene, limonene, pinene, caryophyllene
• CBD: THC ratio: Sativa strains tend to have lower levels of CBD and higher levels of THC
• Origin: Cannabis sativa is often found in hot, dry, and sunny climates, including regions in Africa, Asia, and Central America

What are the effects of sativa strains?

Usually, sativa effects are described as including:

• A positive, uplifted mood
• A boost of energy
• Feelings of productivity or creativity
• Increased focus

Sativas are commonly thought of as “daytime” strains due to their reportedly motivating effects.

Popular sativa strains

Odds are, you’re familiar with at least a few of the most popular sativa strains. You can expect to see at least a handful of well-known names in the majority of dispensaries, including:

• Jack Herer
• Sour Diesel
• Durban Poison
• Super Lemon Haze
• Amnesia Haze
• Durban Poison
• Tangie

Indica

What is an indica?

Indica strains tend to be characterized as producing a deep sense of relaxation, creating a “body high” largely centered on physical effects. People that enjoy indicas often choose them when they want to wind down, relax, or even improve their sleep.

• Appearance: Short, dense plants with a bushy structure
• Aromas and Flavors: Skunky, woody, and earthy aromas paired with sweet, earthy, and fruity notes
• Common terpenes: Pinene, limonene, myrcene, valencene
• CBD-to-THC ratio: Most indicas have higher levels of CBD, but THC concentration isn’t necessarily lower in comparison
• Origin: Cannabis indica is native to India, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Pakistan, specifically the dry, harsh climate of the Hindu Kush mountains

What are the effects of indica strains?

Not all indica strains are the same, but effects often associated with this category include:

• Physical relaxation
• Feelings of calmness, euphoria, and happiness
• Sleepiness
• Reduced nausea
• Pain relief
• Increased appetite

Usually, indicas are labeled as “nighttime” strains. 

Popular indica strains

You can find a wide variety of indica strains at most dispensaries, including popular ones such as:

• Bubba Kush
• Grape Ape
• Blueberry
• Ice Cream Cake
• Zkittlez
• Granddaddy Purple
• Purple Punch
• Northern Lights

Hybrids

Hybrids encompass a diverse range of cannabis strains created by combining different parent plants, resulting in varying balances of indica and sativa characteristics. In many cases, a hybrid strain will be specifically bred to target certain effects. 

Everything from the plant’s appearance to its CBD to THC ratio and effects depends on the plant’s genetic lineage. 

What are the effects of hybrid strains?

Because hybrid strains derive their genetics from sativas and indicas, they can produce a broad spectrum of effects. The best way to learn more about a certain hybrid and its effects is to examine its parent strains and which effects they are usually associated with.

Popular hybrid strains

There is a massive selection of hybrid cannabis strains on the market, and that number is constantly growing. Some of the best-known hybrids include:

• OG Kush
• Wedding Cake
• Blue Dream
• Gelato
• Dosidos
• GG4
• GMO Cookies
• GSC

How Accurate is the Indica/Sativa/Hybrid Classification System?

These three categories of cannabis comprise the framework that both consumers and dispensary/brand teams use to understand the expected effects of a given strain – but is this an accurate method?

The answer is somewhat complicated.

As we learn more about the science of cannabis, it’s beginning to seem that the best way to determine a strain’s potential effects is to assess its cannabinoid and terpene content. These compounds make up each strain’s chemical profile, and they play a pivotal role in how a given strain may affect your body.

Even so, the indica/sativa/hybrid classification system probably isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. It’s something that the cannabis community is extremely familiar with, and shifting to an entirely new system will likely take time and education. There’s no doubt that the existing model has a certain value, especially for individuals new to cannabis.

For the time being, understanding which stains are considered indicas, sativas, or hybrids is a must for anyone participating in the cannabis industry. As you gain experience and expertise, you can explore the nuances of marijuana even more deeply.

Get Up-to-Date Cannabis Information and Marketing Strategies

Are you an entrepreneur aiming to succeed in the flourishing cannabis industry? With the right information, your business can bloom.

Marijuana Marketing Xperts is a full-service digital marketing agency that specializes in partnering with dispensaries, cannabis brands, and other businesses within the marijuana industry. In addition to serving as a trusted authority on cannabusiness marketing strategies, we also aim to be a resource for the latest industry news, trends, and scientific breakthroughs.

If you’re ready to take your cannabis business to the next level, contact our team now!

 

Photo Credits: ALMAGAMI, mihmihmal, mihmihmal, Artlusy, Stokkete