Cannabis flower strains are frequently given names based on their look, the area in which they were found, or the results they give. But who comes up with these names? And from where do they originate? We’ll examine the origins and past of cannabis strain names in this article.
How Do Cannabis Strain Names Come About?
A dispensary’s menu can easily overwhelm first-time customers. To be honest, some of the bizarre names for the countless different cannabis strains can be confusing to understand. If the budtender tells you, for instance, “Sour Diesel tastes amazing,” you might be excused for raising an eyebrow. Fortunately, the narrative of how we got here is intriguing and reveals the history and biology of the plant.
Similar to human names, some strain names are unique primarily because the breeders have a personal connection to them, while others are passed down from ancestors. In other words, breeders are not required to adhere to any scientific rule.
Most cannabis strains are given names based on a range of factors, such as their projected effects on patients, their country of origin, their distinctive scents, their mixed genetic heritage, or even just a breeder’s whim.
The names of some strains just describe their combined genetic history. They typically combine the names of the parent strains. A good example of this is Key Lime Mintz, a variety that Frost usually carries. It is derived from the strains SinMint Cookies and Blue Lime Pie. Hence … Mintz in Key Lime.
Can Its Name Suggest Its Characteristics?
Even though a lot of strain names are derived from genetics, they tend to be more descriptive of the effects or flavor of the strain. Skunk, Lavender, and Diesel are just a few of the fragrant strains that have received names, while Willie Nelson and Jack Herer are two famous cannabis culture icons.
Couch-locking indicas (like Granddaddy Purple) and cerebral sativas are two strains known for their effects (like Green Crack). These titles frequently also hint at the potency or intensity of the effects.
Additionally, some breeders enjoy using regional references in the names of their strains. For instance, you might find SFV OG or Valley OG on a dispensary menu because many OG Kush strains originate in California’s San Fernando Valley. Other illustrations include Blue Dream, Tahoe OG, and NYC Diesel (a reference to the state flower of Colorado).
With all of this in mind, try to consider the origin of the names of cannabis strains the next time you’re browsing a menu of cannabis varieties. It might help you understand what to anticipate from the bud.
Plant Genetics of Cannabis
Some claim that a marijuana variety name needs to be related to a significant gene in order to have any relevance. Not all patients will enjoy every new hybrid, thus not every name will become well-known in the constantly expanding language of cannabis knowledge. Sticking power is fueled by a strain’s unique characteristics, like Sour Diesel’s strong lemon-fuel flavor and aroma, which lives up to its name and offers an unforgettable experience. When the Sour Diesel strain’s amiable side effects were paired with its euphoric high, it became one of the most sought-after cannabis plants on the planet.
The Promotion of Marijuana Strain Names
Of course, marketing has also contributed to the naming of strains. The globalization of marijuana legalization has made this statement even more accurate. A good strain name might be an expensive item. Cannabis users may be drawn in by it, and some strains may even be protected by trademarks to prevent unauthorized use.
The Gorilla Glue strain, created by GG Strains, is one illustration. Other businesses that attempted to utilize the name for their own products have been sued by the firm.
Final Thoughts
Our Bud Depot Dispensary budtenders are quite knowledgeable about where our strain names come from. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you ever have any! We enjoy chatting about our favorite subject, marijuana.
The names of cannabis plants reveal a lengthy and complicated history. Some names are relatively straightforward, while others might be rather complex. It might be tough to interpret a cannabis strain name because there are so many distinct factors at play. However, with a little bit of investigation, you can frequently learn quite a bit about a specific strain just by looking up its name. So the next time you see a name for a strain that piques your interest on a dispensary menu, spend some time learning about it. What you discover might just astound you.
