What are the differences between cannabis indica and sativa?

by TM Maria Be a king in your own kingdom

All plants are classified according to a system that dates back hundreds of years. The Cannabis sativa L. is the binomial nomenclature of the cannabis plant, which belongs to the family of cannabinoids or Cannabaceae, and that includes other plants such as hops or hackberry.

In practice, there are two main subspecies of Cannabis:  sativa and indica. Other variations exist in the form of hybrid (a plant created by the cross of indica and sativa) or subspecies such as Cannabis Ruderalis which is less widespread and is used mainly for the creation of autoflowering cannabis strains. So let's look at the differences between sativa vs indica cannabis varieties.

Difference between indica and sativa: geographical origins

The varieties of Cannabis sativa grow originally around the equator and can be found in Colombia, Mexico, Thailand and several African countries.

The Indica strains of cannabis growing in altitude, mainly in countries known for their cultivation of hashish like Morocco, Afghanistan, Nepal and Turkey.

Difference between indica and sativa: appearance and size

Sativa plants will always be larger than their indica sisters. One foot of sativa can reach 1m80 whereas the indica rarely exceeds 90cm. This difference is due in large part to the geographical origins of each of the two subspecies. Sativa heads are often longer and less dense. They grow on the branches of the plant rather than at the base of each node. Sativa leaves are usually long and thin.

The sativa evolved depending on the particular climate that we find around the equator (short, regular periods of sun), while indica did not have to fight to capture the sun, giving them a bush appearance. Sativa flowers usually grow between the nodes of each branch, which tends to give them a cluster shape and density. The leaves of indica plants are shorter and wider than those of sativas.

Difference between indica and sativa: effects

In terms of therapeutic cannabis, indica varieties have the best analgesic effects, while sativa have a higher ratio of THC levels to cannabidiol levels.

The sativa promote brain activity, while indica produce more easily a relaxing, calming effect on stress and mood.

For recreational consumers, the difference between indica and sativa will be played out on the type of sensation. Sativa often provides a high brain and stimulating and energizing effects, while indica produces a body stone and a feeling of relaxation. Sativa are better suited for use during the day or festive evening, while the indica go well with a quiet evening, alone, with friends or between lovers.

Difference between indica and sativa: aromas

The sativas run through a vast array of aromas, from fruity to ammoniacal flavors. These varieties are more floral and tropical.

The indicas are very often fruity, as in the different strains of Kush, but can have a more woody smell like the different varieties of Skunk and hybrid indicas.

Difference between indica and sativa: flowering

The sativa generally take longer to bloom than indica, especially because the feet are larger. Although the sativa varieties traded today have been bred to bloom around 10 weeks, some landraces still take their time, more than 18 weeks, and much more for zamal sativa varieties.

The indica bloom after 8 to 10 weeks, while sativa can bloom twice more time, though both species specific inputs intakes can accelerate flowering.

Difference between indica and sativa: yield

In general, indica plants produce more than sativas. In practice, some indica varieties such as OG Kush produce significantly less than their counterparts.

Indica has historically been used to make the most famous hash: manala cream or charas.

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Created on Feb 27th 2019 09:33. Viewed 338 times.

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