Cultivar

A cultivar is a type of plant that has been bred to have distinct effects, aromas and appearances, which is achieved by cleverly combining and sculpting the characteristics that they inherit from their ‘parent plants’. In the cannabis industry, sometimes cultivars, or cultivated varieties, are referred to as strains - but this is not a horticultural term. 

 

What is the difference between a cannabis cultivar and 'strain'?

 

Nothing, the word 'strain' has been commonly used in the cannabis industry for many years, but it is not a scientifically accurate term. In medical cannabis, the term 'strain' has been replaced with 'cultivar' as it is a more precise description of the plant.

 

Why are there different medical cannabis cultivars?

 

Each cultivar has unique characteristics that make it suitable for treating different symptoms or conditions. For example, some may have higher levels of CBD, while other offer high THC potency, or boosted levels of certain terpenes and cannabinoids.

To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.

If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.