May
Cannabis strains have become iconic symbols of the plant’s wide varieties.
From Sour Diesel to Pineapple Express, names like these often evoke certain expectations in cannabis consumers, drawing us to explore exciting combinations of varying THC and CBD levels, flavors, and more.
But do you ever stop to wonder how a weed strain gets its name? What is it about those carefully chosen words that make all the difference when we’re shopping for cannabis products?
In this blog post, we will unveil the mysteries surrounding cannabis strain naming conventions and why they matter so much!
Geography
Geography can play a significant role in how cannabis strains are named. In many cases, strains are named after the region where they were originally grown or discovered.
This is because different regions can produce different strains with unique characteristics and effects. For example, the strain “Hawaiian” is named after the Hawaiian Islands, where it was first cultivated. This strain is known for its tropical flavor and uplifting effects, which are thought to be influenced by the warm climate and unique soil conditions of Hawaii.
Similarly, “Afghani” is named after the country of Afghanistan, where it is believed to have originated. This strain is known for its heavy sedative effects and earthy flavor, which are thought to be influenced by the harsh and arid climate of Afghanistan.
In some cases, strains may also be named after specific regions or cities within a country. For instance, “Thai” is named after Thailand, but is specifically associated with the province of Chiang Mai, where it is believed to have originated.
Naming strains after their place of origin can be useful for understanding their genetic history and predicting their effects. However, it’s worth noting that strains can be crossbred and modified over time, so the original geographic influences may not always be as pronounced in modern strains.
Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in how cannabis strains are named. Many strains are named after their parent strains or after the genetic traits that they possess. The name of a strain can often provide clues about its genetic makeup and potential effects.
For example, the strain “OG Kush” is named after its “Ocean Grown” genetics, believed to have originated in California in the 1990s. The strain “Sour Diesel” is named for its diesel-like aroma and is thought to have descended from the strains Chemdawg and Northern Lights.
Similarly, “GSC” (formerly known as “Girl Scout Cookies”) is believed to be a hybrid of the strains Durban Poison and OG Kush.
Some strains are named after specific genetic traits that they possess. For example, “Blueberry” is named for its sweet and fruity flavor, reminiscent of blueberries. “Purple Haze” got the name for its distinctive purple coloring, which is thought to be caused by high levels of anthocyanin pigments.
Cannabis strains can be crossbred and modified over time, so the original genetics may not always be as pronounced in modern strains. Additionally, some strains may be mislabeled or have uncertain genetic origins, so it’s important to do research and obtain strains from reputable sources.
Appearance
Appearance can also play a role in how cannabis strains are named. Some strains are named for their unique color, shape, or other physical characteristics.
For instance, the strain “Purple Urkle” is named for its deep purple coloring and is believed to have originated in California. The strain “White Widow” is named for the white trichomes that cover its buds, giving them a frosty appearance.
Some strains are also named for their unique shape or structure. “Northern Lights” is named for the way its buds form a canopy of sparkling lights, while the strain “Big Bud” is named for its large, dense buds.
Appearance alone is not a reliable indicator of a strain’s effects or potency. Different strains can have similar appearances, and different batches of the same strain can also vary in their appearance.
Effects
The effects that a cannabis flower produces can also play a significant role in how it is named. Many strains are named after the effects known to produce or the specific symptoms they are used to treat.
For example, “Green Crack” is named for its energizing and stimulating effects, which are said to be similar to a caffeine boost. “God’s Gift” is named for its heavy sedative effects, which are said to provide a relaxing and euphoric experience. On the other hand, “Jack Herer” is named for the cannabis activist and author and is said to produce a clear-headed and uplifting high.
Similarly, some weeds got their name for the symptoms they are used to treat. The strain “Charlotte’s Web” is named after a young girl named Charlotte Figi, who used the strain to help manage her seizures.
The strain “ACDC” is named after the rock band, but also stands for “Alternative Cannabinoid Dietary Cannabis,” and is known for its high CBD content, making it popular for pain relief and other therapeutic uses.
The effects of a strain may not always be consistent across different batches or users. Additionally, some strain names may be misleading or inaccurate, so it’s important to research a strain’s effects and genetics before consuming it.
Pop Culture
Pop culture can also play a role in how cannabis strains are named. Many strains have been named after popular movies, TV shows, music, and other cultural references.
For example, the strain “Pineapple Express” is named after the 2008 comedy film, which can be referred to as the “weed film” of the same name. “Bruce Banner” is named after the comic book character and is said to produce a powerful, Hulk-like high.
“Blue Dream” got its reputation after the album by the band Blue Dream and is known for its balanced and euphoric effects.
In addition, some cannabis are named after celebrities, either as a nod to their work or as a way to associate the weed with a certain image or lifestyle.
“Willie Nelson” received its name after the country music legend and longtime cannabis advocate. “Snoop’s Dream” is named after the rapper Snoop Dogg and is known for its relaxing and euphoric effects. These pop culture references can be a way to create buzz around a particular strain and to make it more marketable.