Cannabis cultivation is characterized by the use of terms such as’strain’, ‘cultivar’, and, most commonly, a ‘variety’, which describe the many variants that this versatile plant offers. These terms are often used interchangeably but it’s important to recognize that they each have a different meaning. In this dynamic field it is important to communicate accurately and gain a thorough understanding of the differences. This article will take you on a journey of discovery to uncover the differences between strains, cultivars, and varieties in cannabis cultivation. It will shed light on these nuances.
Strain
The term “strain”, which is commonly used by the cannabis community to describe variants of Cannabis species, is not accurate. In microbiology, the term “strain” refers to bacteria, viruses and fungi. In bacteriology for example, “strain” is a genetic variant or subtype of a bacterial specie. Each strain can have its own genetic characteristics such as the presence or absence of certain genes (Dijkshoorn, et al., 2000).
The term “strain”, which is reserved for microbiology, is inappropriate when used in relation to plants, such as Cannabis, and plants generally. We should not use it to describe different species of Cannabis.
Variety
The term “variety” is a better way to describe the different cannabis varieties. The term “variety”, on the other hand, is defined as an adaptation of a species to changes in its environment due to factors like climate shifts and soil changes. Other factors include disease, insect attacks, parasites, and similar influences. When discussing the different types of marijuana, “variety’ is the best term.
Cultivar
The term “cultivar”, which was created to avoid confusion with the botanical word “variety”, has been adopted. It is the combination of “cultivated varieties” shortened to “cultivars” (Arevalo, et al., 2006). Cultivars, unlike varieties, are not the result of evolutionary processes. They are instead created by deliberate breeding and agricultural techniques in order to achieve improved and uniform characteristics (Tooker, et al., 2012). This distinction is important, because it emphasizes the human involvement in developing specific traits and characteristics.
How important is it that you distinguish between cultivars and varieties in Cannabis? It is important to distinguish between cultivars, and varieties in the context of Cannabis. The difference between cultivars and varieties is crucial in the context of Cannabis. A landrace variant that grows naturally in the native region is a variety. However, a hybrid variant created by carefully crossbreeding two varieties would be classified a cultivar.
Why should we use the correct terminology? It is not just a matter of semantics; the differences between “strain,” ‘variety,” and ‘cultivar’ have practical implications for different stakeholders.
- Accuracy in science – Correct terminology is essential for maintaining scientific integrity, as well as clear communication between researchers, botanists and growers. To communicate effectively, to exchange knowledge and to avoid misunderstandings, everyone must use precise terminology.
- Consistency: Consistently using the terms “variety”, “cultivar”, and “plant” will promote a common understanding in the cannabis community as well as the wider horticultural, botanical and horticultural fields. Standardizing these terms will help streamline scientific research, regulatory practices and consumer education in the cannabis industry.
- Conserving biodiversity – By understanding and distinguishing between natural types and cultivated cultivars, we can help to preserve the biodiversity of cannabis.
The terms “strain,” ‘cultivar,” & ‘variety’ are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. It is important to understand the correct usage of each word in order to ensure that communication is accurate and clear. Understanding the differences between the terms will help us better understand the fascinating world of cannabis and the efforts that have been made to develop unique and desirable cultivars.
References
Arevalo, R. A., Bertoncini, E. I., Guirado, N., & Chaila S.. “Los terminos cultivar o variedad de cana de azucar (Saccharum spp. ).” REVISTA CHAPINGO SERIE HORTICULTURA, vol. 12, no. 1, 2006, pp.5-9. Redalyc, https://www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=60912102
Dijkshoorn L., B. M. Ursing and J. B. Ursing. Journal of Medical Microbiology, 49.5, 2000. p. 397 to 401. https://doi.org/10.1099/0022-1317-49-5-397
Mostafaei Dehnavi, Mahboubeh, et al. “THC- and CBD-Fingerprinting of an Iranian Elite Cannabis Collection: Quantifying diversity to underpin future cannabis breeding.” Plants vol. 11, no. 1, 2022, p. 129, https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11010129
Russo, Ethan. Frontiers in plant science, vol. 9, 2019, p. 434025, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2018.01969
Tooker, John and Frank, Steven. Journal of Applied Ecology vol. 49, no. 49, no. 5, 2012, pp. 974-985, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2664.2012.02173.x
What is the correct term for a cannabis strain, cultivar or variety? What is the correct term? was first published by The National Cannabis Industry Association.
