Landrace Strains: The Original Indicas & Sativas

Landrace strains are the original, unhybridized pure sativa and indica cannabis plants, often named for where they’re from. These strains developed in isolation in various parts of the world, adapting to their local environment. Each strain’s natural evolution allowed it to develop unique traits suited to the specific climates and growing conditions. These days, most cannabis strains are created via hybridization, and that’s why there are thousands of strains to choose from at your local dispensary.¹

Africa’s diverse climates have produced a variety of landrace marijuana strains, with Durban Poison being one of the most famous. These landrace strains are 100% sativa dominant and typically have neon green leaves with bright orange trichomes.

Central Asian landrace strains are believed to be the most OG strains on the planet; that is, the strains from which all other strains originated. These 100% indica plants grow natively to central Asia, primarily in Pakistan and Afghanistan, thriving in the area’s temperate mountain climate.

When we talk about Hawaiian landrace strains, we’re referring to strains that originated in Hawaii. While the seeds may have been brought from other parts of the world, those seeds quickly created plants that became one with the unique terrain and volcanic soil of the archipelago.

Many of the landrace strains of Jamaica owe their proliferation on the island to indentured servants from India, brought over by the British to manage the sugar and cotton fields. This Indian heritage is also why we sometimes use the term “ganja” for cannabis. Ganja is a Sanskrit word used to describe the flower of a plant, and it was adopted by the Rastafari culture and used as slang for cannabis.

Mexican landrace strains are 100% pure sativa cannabis plants that naturally evolved within Mexico’s distinct ecosystems. They closely resemble the original wild cannabis plants, standing apart because of their untouched genetics; unique appearance; and complex flavors and aromas.

Thai heirloom strains are 100% sativa, becoming popular in the United States when seeds were brought over by soldiers during and after the Vietnam War. In fact, it was the soldiers that gave the marijuana the name “Thai Sticks” because the flower was tied to and carried around on bamboo sticks.

The concept of landrace strains can be a bit confusing, so here are a few FAQs.

Can you still buy landrace strains?

While modern hybrid marijuana strains dominate the market, it is still possible to find pure landrace strains. However, landrace cannabis is rare because it isn’t always easy to grow these strains outside their natural environments.

Are all landraces the same?

Today’s heirloom strains have similar genetics to the original landrace strains but have some phenotypic differences.³

What are the most famous landrace strains?

Several landrace strains have achieved legendary status in the cannabis community, specifically Acapulco Gold, Thai Stick, Hindu Kush, Durban Poison, and Afghan Kush.

Are landrace strains rare?

While landrace strains are rare, finding these original 100% indica or sativa strains isn’t impossible. However, if you do manage to find it, you’ll likely pay top dollar.

More About Heirloom Strains

Exploring landrace cannabis can deepen your appreciation for this remarkable plant, so ask your favorite budtender if the dispensary has any landrace strains available and in stock.