Landrace
Category: Cultivation · Level: Intermediate
A landrace cannabis strain is a naturally evolved variety originating from a specific geographic region, genetically distinct from commercial cultivars.
Landrace cannabis strains are populations that have evolved over centuries in specific geographic regions — such as Afghani, Thai, Colombian, Jamaican, or Hindu Kush — without systematic human breeding programs. They are genetically adapted to their local environments and exhibit distinct phenotypic and chemotypic profiles. Landraces are highly valued in breeding programs as foundational genetic stock. Most modern commercial cannabis cultivars trace their lineage to one or more landrace populations. With the industrialization of cannabis cultivation, preserving landrace genetics has become a conservation priority, with seed banks maintaining collections for research and breeding purposes.
Also known as
Heirloom strain, Pure strain, Landrace strain
Usage
- Cultivation
- Scientific
Related terms
- Sativa — Cannabis sativa is a subspecies of cannabis traditionally associated with taller plants and effects described as energizing or cerebral.
- Cultivar — A cultivar is a plant variety that has been selectively bred and maintained to exhibit consistent, reproducible characteristics.
- Indica — Indica is a strain of cannabis commonly associated with relaxing effects and sedation.
- Genotype — Genotype refers to the complete genetic makeup of a cannabis plant, which determines its potential traits and characteristics.