Cannabis Ruderalis, often referred to as the third type of cannabis, has played a significant role in the development of auto-flowering plants. This wild strain is native to Russia, central Europe, and central Asia and is well-adapted to the harsh environments found in these regions. While its classification as a distinct species or a variation of the cannabis species is still a subject of debate among botanists, Ruderalis has unique characteristics that make it an important contributor to the cannabis gene pool.
Ruderalis owes its origins to the evolution of cannabis varieties as they spread further away from the equator after the last ice age. The original tropical phenotype Cannabis Sativa L. diversified into Indica and Sativa varieties to survive in new climates. However, the wild Ruderalis strain has had less human intervention and agricultural influence compared to Indica and Sativa. This has allowed Ruderalis to retain its natural genetic traits and adaptability to its native environments.
One distinct feature of Cannabis Ruderalis is its smaller stature. When fully grown, a typical Ruderalis plant reaches a height of only 30cm to 80cm. It has a few branches and wide, fat-bladed leaves similar to those of Cannabis Indica. Interestingly, Ruderalis gains even less height than Indica during the flowering stage, earning it the nicknames “dwarf cannabis” or “bonsai cannabis.”
The most notable characteristic of Ruderalis is its auto-flowering ability. While most flowering plants rely on changes in the climate, particularly the number of daylight hours, to initiate the flowering process, Ruderalis begins flowering based on its own maturity. This means that each individual Ruderalis plant will start flowering after about five to seven weeks of growth, regardless of environmental conditions. Unlike other cannabis varieties, Ruderalis continues to flower until external factors, such as winter, cause the plant to die naturally.
The fast growth cycle of Cannabis Ruderalis is another adaptation to its short, cool summers. It can complete its entire life cycle, from seed to seed production, in as little as 10 weeks (though 12 to 14 weeks is more common). The seeds of Ruderalis detach easily and can survive in frozen ground until favorable conditions allow germination. They can even withstand being cracked open by human or animal activity, which may aid in seed germination for some Ruderalis strains.
While wild Ruderalis strains are typically low in THC and high in CBD, making them less appealing for recreational use, their unique traits have caught the attention of cannabis breeders. By hybridizing Ruderalis with Indica strains, breeders have created auto-flowering varieties that mature earlier than other outdoor plants. These hybrids are particularly useful for medicinal applications where the therapeutic benefits of CBD are desired without the intoxicating effects of high-THC strains.
In conclusion, Cannabis Ruderalis, with its auto-flowering ability, fast growth cycle, and adaptability to harsh environments, has played a crucial role in the development of auto-flowering plants. Its unique traits have been harnessed by breeders to create earlier-maturing varieties and expand the therapeutic applications of cannabis. As our understanding of cannabis genetics continues to evolve, Ruderalis will likely remain an important component of cannabis breeding and cultivation.
