Field Guide
Marijuana Cannabis
Cannabis sativa
Marijuana Cannabis
Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, ganja, or simply cannabis, is a well-known flowering herb native to Central and South Asia but now grown worldwide in both tropical and temperate climates. It is a highly adaptable plant that thrives in sunny, well-drained soils and can be found in cultivated fields, backyard gardens, and even as a wild escapee along roadsides or abandoned lots.

Cannabis is a distinctive annual plant that can range from a small bushy shrub to a tall, slender herb reaching over 3 meters in height. The leaves are one of its most recognizable features—long, narrow, serrated leaflets arranged like fingers on a hand, giving the plant its classic “palmate” appearance. The stems are firm and fiber-rich, and depending on the variety, the plant may grow upright or take on a more branching, bushy form.

The flowers appear on separate male and female plants, with female plants producing the familiar resin-coated buds. These buds are covered in tiny glandular structures called trichomes, which give them a frosty look and contain the aromatic oils and compounds—most famously THC and CBD—that contribute to the plant’s scent, effects, and medicinal qualities. The smell can range from sweet and fruity to earthy, skunky, or spicy, depending on the strain and growing conditions.

Cannabis has a long history of cultural, medicinal, and spiritual use. Traditionally, it has been used to ease pain, improve sleep, and support relaxation. Modern studies continue to explore its potential for managing anxiety, inflammation, seizures, and various chronic conditions. The seeds are also edible and nutrient-rich, and non-psychoactive varieties of the plant (hemp) are used for fiber, textiles, rope, oils, and a wide range of natural products.

While widely cultivated and celebrated in many regions, the plant is also regulated or restricted depending on local laws. In places where it is grown legally, cannabis is cultivated carefully for its flowers, with growers selecting strains based on aroma, potency, and medicinal qualities.

Overall, Cannabis sativa is a versatile, culturally significant plant—valued for its unique leaves, resinous flowers, and long history of both practical and traditional use.


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