Cannabis Ruderalis – getting to know cannabis can be a bit of an intimidating task as there is so much to learn and so much that is still largely unknown. You may have heard of Cannabis Sativa or Cannabis Indica, but have you heard of Cannabis Ruderalis?
Ruderalis, Sativa, Indica, and other hybrids are all different species of cannabis with their own unique properties and benefits. The often overlooked and undervalued Cannabis Ruderalis is home to several unique and pronounced benefits that cater more towards a niche market for those looking for specific enhanced effects.
Interested in learning more about this underground strain of cannabis?
What is Cannabis Ruderalis?
A long time ago, Cannabis Ruderalis was thought to be only a variation of feral cannabis that outgrew its habitat.
Nowadays, its reputation isn’t quite the same.
It’s now widely accepted that Ruderalis is actually another subspecies of cannabis with its own unique blend of properties.
The name Ruderalis stems from the term Ruderal, which translates to a species of plant that is first able to colonize a land disturbed by humans. Furthermore, Ruderalis is derived from the Latin word Rudus, meaning “rubble”.
Cannabis Ruderalis has its roots in the Northern Asian region as well as the Russian/Eastern European zone.
Seeing as how these places didn’t really have much of an ideal growing climate for cannabis, Ruderalis was able to adapt to these harsh environments and survive despite the presence of human intervention and disturbance. This translated to shorter growing seasons and a unique auto-flowering characteristic.
As far as physical characteristics go, Cannabis Ruderalis is usually stalkier in size and grows fewer side branches when compared to Cannabis Sativa or Indica.
For reference, Cannabis Ruderalis is known to grow as tall as 1.5 to 2 feet tall while Cannabis Sativa can grow to a height of 20 feet tall. Due to its small size, Cannabis Ruderalis yields smaller batches of flower and generally requires less maintenance for growth.
Key Properties of Cannabis Ruderalis
One of the key features that sets Ruderalis Cannabis apart from the rest of its competition is its efficient flowering cycle.
Rather than being influenced by a change in the light cycle, Ruderalis Cannabis initiates its flowering period based on the maturity of the plant itself. Many growers consider the Ruderalis plant to be auto-flowering, allowing crops to be grown with minimal supervision, producing flowers as fast as 21 to 30 days after being initially planted.
Ruderalis also stands out as a great option for cannabis consumers who have always entertained the idea of growing their own cannabis but have not had the resources to do so, like space, time, and or lighting equipment.
Cannabis Ruderalis allows for a smooth and easy grow operation that requires a minimum amount of effort, space, and time. There are several other practical benefits to growing Ruderalis such as stealth and discretion.
As mentioned previously, Sativas can grow up to 20 feet tall, sometimes attracting unwanted attention. Hybridized strains with Ruderalis genetics not only tend to flower more quickly, but they also grow slightly smaller in size, alleviating this issue.
Ruderalis Vs Sativa and Indica
When compared to Cannabis Sativa and Indica, Ruderalis almost always possesses lower levels of THC and higher levels of CBD. More medicinal in its nature, the cannabinoid content of Ruderalis lends itself to be beneficial for patients who prefer the therapeutic effects of CBD with less of an effect from the THC.
The CBD content of Ruderalis also gives breeders a reason to crossbreed Ruderalis with Sativa and Indica strains for its auto-flowering capabilities.
Certain strains may have an extended flowering period that is too long for the grower who needs their product relatively quickly. Ruderalis eliminates this issue by passing on its genetics to cross-bred variants, allowing them to possess shorter flowering cycles and more efficient flowering mechanisms.
Ruderalis Strains to Try
Amnesia Haze Automatic
A cross-breed of Amnesia Haze, a classic Sativa strain originating from the Netherlands and Cannabis Ruderalis. Amnesia Haze Automatic is a Sativa leaning hybrid with all of the original characteristics that make Amnesia Haze great, plus a shorter flowering cycle.
Many people enjoy Amnesia Haze Automatic for its uplifting and energetic effects. It’s a great option for social gatherings or to get a spark of creativity.
Red Dwarf
One of the more rarer auto-flowering strains derived from Ruderalis genetics with Indica dominant traits. This strain is popular amongst growers who are looking for something low maintenance and quick to grow.
The Indica genetics within Red Dwarf will leave you in a relaxed state of euphoria, ushering you into a deep fulfilling slumber. Red Dwarf is great for those who suffer from sleeping disorders, chronic pain, and stress.
Green Gelato Automatic
A Ruderalis hybrid variant of the legendary Green Gelato. Containing a steady balance of both Cannabis Sativa and Indica genetics, the effects of Green Gelato Automatic send the user on an adventure, stimulating both the body and the mind.
Green Gelato Automatic has one of the highest THC contents of any Ruderalis strain, lending itself to be a great option for social events or parties when an interesting conversation is the name of the game.
Haze Berry Automatic
The Sativa Dominant Ruderalis variant of the classic Haze Berry strain. Haze Berry Automatic shares the same characteristics of the original strain’s high.
While this variant does share the same characteristics, it possesses a lower THC content, which is perfect for those who are looking for a subtle high to refresh the mind and gain some mental clarity.
Final Thoughts on Cannabis Ruderalis
Often overlooked and undervalued, Ruderalis is generally considered inferior to its cousins Cannabis Sativa and Indica due to its smaller size and yield.
However, with a list of Ruderalis strains to try, you’ll quickly realize that those stereotypes were meant to be broken as Ruderalis is easily able to hold its own when faced off with its competitors.
Whether you’re planning on growing your own cannabis at home or are keen on exploring your options, give cannabis Ruderalis a try, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results.