The first thing you’ll need to understand about cannabis is the three distinct categories colors that strains are sorted into : sativa, indica, and hybrid.

Early taxonomic distinctions between Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa began in the 18th century when differences between their structure and resin production were first noted. The hybrid category was adopted later on, as growers began mixing genetics from different geographic locations. Indicas are believed to have originated in the Hindu Kush region near Afghanistan, where they developed thick coats of resin as protection against the harsh climate and conditions. Sativas thrive in temperate areas closer to the equator amidst more variable weather patterns.

Today, people generally ascribe more meaning to these categories than when indicas and sativas were originally categorized. These distinguishing characteristics include morphology, effects, flowering time, yields, geographical origins, and even flavors. This system has become so engrained in cannabis culture that many people