Are you trying to identify the specific strain of cannabis you have? In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s possible to identify cannabis strains based on their visual characteristics, scents, flavours, and effects.

While it’s not an exact science, we’ll provide some guidance on making informed conclusions about your cannabis based on these parameters.

How to identify the strain of your cannabis?

To definitively know a cannabis plant’s genetic origins, you have two options: purchasing seeds from a reputable seed bank like “dispenseree seeds” or conducting DNA testing, which is a less common option for home growers.

However, you can still make educated guesses about a plant’s genetics by examining its growth patterns and morphology.

1. Indica vs. Sativa dominance.

Distinguishing between indica and sativa dominance is often the first step. Indicas tend to be shorter with dense, dark-green foliage and close internodal spacing.

Sativas, on the other hand, are taller, have bright green leaves, and have greater internodal spacing.

Sativas also exhibit more stretching during flowering and produce airier buds suitable for warm, humid climates. Indicas, conversely, yield compact, tightly packed flowers with adapted features for cooler, drier environments.

Note that in hybrid strains, identifying sativa/indica genetics might be a bit subtler, but a keen eye can still discern dominant traits.

2. Flowering time.

Observing the time it takes for your plants to finish flowering can offer clues about whether they lean more towards indica or sativa dominance.

Indicas typically flower in around 8 weeks, while Sativas may take 12 weeks or more. This correlates with their evolutionary adaptations to different climates.

For example, short-flowering strains like “Royal Cheese” “Fast Flowering” and “Watermelon” usually indicate indica dominance. On the other hand, long-flowering strains like “Amnesia Haze” and “Shogun” are indicative of sativa traits.

While this information is helpful, it’s important to note that it might not pinpoint the exact origins of a strain, especially with unlabeled or bag seeds.

Identifying the strain of smoked cannabis.

Aside from plant growth, growers and smokers often try to differentiate strains based on visual traits, smell, flavour, and effects.

1. Visual Traits.

Before consumption, visually inspecting the buds is advised. Elongated, light and fluffy buds are likely from a Sativa-dominant variety like “Amnesia Haze” or “Shining Silver Haze”.

Smaller, compact flowers suggest an indica strain, such as “Northern Lights” or “Gelato”.

Purple buds may narrow down the possibilities to purple varieties like “Purple Queen” or “Mimosa”, but note that temperature can influence colour.

2. Aromatic Traits.

Aromas offer further insight. Pine and earthy scents usually come from pinene, humulene, and myrcene, found in strains like “OG Kush”.

Diesel aromas are typically caused by a combination of myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, and humulene, as seen in strains like “Triple G”.

3. Flavour Traits.

Tasting the buds can also provide information. Herbal flavours are often indicative of terpinolene and caryophyllene, found in strains like “Sherbet Queen”.

Peppery flavours are a sign of caryophyllene, present in “White Widow”.

4. Effects Traits.

Analysing the effects can offer some clues. High THC strains have strong intoxicating effects, while CBD-containing strains are physically relaxing but not intoxicating.

Cerebral effects suggest sativa dominance, while physical effects imply Indica traits.

While these methods are helpful, remember that cannabis is a complex plant, and factors like phenotype and growing conditions can influence its traits.

For certainty, buying seeds from reputable seed banks like “dispenseree Seeds” is the best approach.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any cannabis product.