When most people talk about cannabis, they refer to indica or sativa strains. Hybrids are yet another type of cannabis strain, and they should not be overlooked. As the name implies, hybrids are strains that combine the traits of indica and sativa, and there is plenty to learn about this type of marijuana.
Understanding Hybrids
As mentioned, hybrid strains are a combination of indica and sativa. They are usually classified as indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced. Indica-dominant and sativa-dominant strains are fairly self-explanatory as they have a larger amount of indica and sativa genetics, respectively. Balanced strains have an approximately 50:50 ratio of indica and sativa genetics.
Keep in mind that hybrids may also have some genetics from ruderalis, a type of cannabis strain that is not smoked due to its low potency.
A Refresher on Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis
Since hybrid marijuana strains combine the features of indica and sativa, potentially with some ruderalis, it is wise to refresh your memory on the differences between those classifications.
Sativa
Sativa strains usually grow in dry, hot climates where the days are long and sunny. Example environments include Southeast Asia, Western Asia, Central America, and Africa. Sativa plants tend to be thin and tall, featuring equally thin leaves. They can grow up to more than 12 feet and usually reach maturity later than indica.
Although not always the case, sativa frequently has higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD. Sativa is associated with energizing traits, although this depends more on the strain than the category.
Indica
Indica strains tend to grow in areas with turbulent, dry, and harsh climates. An example is the Hindu Kush Mountains, along with Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Turkey. Indica strains are shorter than sativa and are stocky. Their leaves are usually chunky, broad, and wide. Not only does indica tend to grow more quickly than sativa, but it also produces more buds.
Frequently, indica strains feature high levels of CBD with lower levels of THC. Indica is associated with relaxation, but once again, this varies based on the strain.
Ruderalis
Ruderalis does well in extreme environments due to its ability to grow very quickly. It grows despite low sunlight or cold weather, such as in the Himalayan regions of Russia, Siberia, and India and in Eastern Europe. It is rare for ruderalis to get above 12 inches, but it can be ready to harvest within a month after being planted.
Remember that ruderalis strains usually have almost no THC and slightly higher amounts of CBD. Even so, there is not necessarily enough CBD to cause any effects.
Because of its lack of potency, you will rarely see ruderalis being smoked. However, breeders sometimes use it to create hybrids that have some positive ruderalis traits, such as the quick grow cycle or hardiness.
Traits of Hybrids
Because hybrids combine sativa and indica strains, potentially with ruderalis genetics, as well, their characteristics tend to sit somewhere between those typical of indica and those typical of sativa. Generally, a sativa-dominant hybrid will be more like sativas in terms of growth and CBD:THC ratio while an indica-dominant hybrid will be closer to indica.
Overall, hybrid strains can have any ratio of CBD: THC, any appearance, and grow in a range of places. It is most common for hybrids to have been specifically bred by people, so you are more likely to find them in greenhouses or farms. However, some do occur naturally.
Popular Hybrid Marijuana Strains
To give you a better idea of what to expect from hybrid marijuana strains, here are some of the more popular ones that you may come across or hear about.
Cannatonic
Cannatonic is known for its high levels of CBD, as it can have up to 12 percent CBD and 15 percent THC. This hybrid is balanced and comes from MK Ultra and G13 Haze. Most users will notice a mellow high that delivers feelings of happiness and relaxation. There are also feelings of optimism. Although there is no energy boost with this strain, you are also unlikely to experience couchlock.
First-time growers should likely try a different plant as growing Cannatonic requires experience and skill. It needs low to average humidity levels due to being susceptible to mildew and mold.
Pineapple Express
This hybrid is a sativa-dominant with unknown breeders. The strain is known for its extreme potency and long-lasting energetic high. The name comes from the fact that the buds smell like tropical fruit. Using Pineapple Express typically results in a cerebral high that is happy and creative. You should also expect feeling social and potentially giggly. Beginners should be cautious as the THC level can be 20 to 26 percent, making it very potent.
Three Blue Kings
Three Blue Kings is an indica-dominant hybrid that is the result of crossing Blue Dream and Three Kings. It is a feminized strain that Humboldt Seed Organization created. This strain can be incredibly potent with as much as 24 percent THC. When you smoke Three Blue Kings, expect a potent body high with relaxed muscles.
You will notice a fruity smell and delicious taste with some zesty overtones. Growing this strain is best done outdoors, as you may be able to get 60 ounces per plant when you let it grow to its full height, which can be 13 feet.
White Widow
White Widow arrived during the 1990s and is among the first popular European cannabis strains in the United States. It is a cross between an indica from South India and a sativa from South America. The THC content is usually 18 to 25 percent, making it a reasonably potent strain.
Smoking White Widow tends to produce a reliable, smooth high. Users report that they feel relaxed yet uplifted. It is great for social activities and creativity, but that is followed up by couchlock, so plan ahead.
Conclusion
Hybrid marijuana strains combine the genetics and traits of sativa and indica. Many are bred with a purpose in mind, and you can find hybrids that produce nearly any desired effects that you want.