What is the classification for Cannabis? What are they different types of Cannabis? Where does Cannabis grow and what is the history of Cannabis? What type of plant is Cannabis? What are the uses of Cannabis? Although I have many questions, I will attempt to accurately answers all of them as well as I can in this I-search Physical Aspects Before I can research about the uses, benefits, harms, or any other aspects of Cannabis, I have to research the physical aspects of the plant
In order to find out specific information knowing only the name Cannabis sativa, I looked in Chinese herb books, botanical books and in encyclopedias. I found out quite a lot of good information, but unfortunately, not as through as I was hoping for. Cannabis is botanically classified as a member of the family Cannabaceae and the genus Cannabis. There are 3 known species of Cannabis: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. I had never heard of Cannabis ruderalis before, and it was sort of a shock when I discovered it. I went ahead and found specific information about each species. Cannabis sativa is a tall plant, generally between 8 and 12 feet. The leaves have long thin fingers and are light green. The more equatorial varieties have more yellow pigments to protect the plant from intense light. Sativa seed pods are long and thin and turn red as they mature in a warm environment. In cooler environments the buds may be slightly purple. Sativa plants smell sweet and fruity and the smoke is generally quite mild. It is a source of fiber for rope and other products and it contains THC, which gives smokers the psychic effects they seek. The leaves of this plant are smoked but the most highly prized part of the plant is the top. Cannabis indica is plentiful in the Middle east, India, and Central Asia especially Afghanistan, Kashmire, and Pakistan. It is a short plant, generally between 3 and 6 feet, and its leaves have short broad fingers.
