The Importance of Naming a Strain

The terms cultivar and chemovar help differentiate aspects of cannabis plants with greater scientific accuracy than the commonly used term “strain.”

 

A cultivar (short for “cultivated variety”) refers to the specific type of cannabis, like Northern Lights or OG Kush, which are recognized by their unique appearance, smell, and effects. In contrast, a chemovar identifies cannabis varieties based on their chemical profile, including terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds, allowing scientists to distinguish plants by their precise biochemical makeup.

 

This distinction is essential in a field where plants may look similar yet produce varying physiological effects. With the growing focus on medical and regulated cannabis use, understanding a plant’s chemovar ensures consistency in its effects, making it crucial for both dosing and labeling accuracy in the industry.

Strain Names