Ruderalis

Cannabis ruderalis is a subspecies of cannabis characterized by its auto-flowering trait, meaning it transitions from vegetative growth to the flowering stage automatically. Ruderalis enters this reproductive phase based on age, typically around 21-30 days, rather than being triggered by changes in light cycles like photoperiod cannabis strains. This auto-flowering attribute allows breeders to develop fast-finishing hybrid strains.

However, pure ruderalis varieties are not commonly grown due to low levels of THC and small stature. Originating in Russia, cannabis ruderalis adapted the auto-flowering trait to finish quickly over short summers. But these fast harvests mean less light exposure to develop cannabinoid content. By crossbreeding ruderalis with high THC photoperiod strains, cultivators can create auto-flowering hybrids with both quick harvest times and abundant cannabinoid levels tailored to market preferences.

The genetic contributions of ruderalis are crucial for cultivation in some environments. Breeders in northern climates with shorter outdoor seasons rely on auto-flowering strains to finish before fall frost. With indoor grows, auto-flowers allow perpetual harvests under the same light schedule. However flavor and potency have often lacked compared to traditional cannabis. Improved breeding continues optimizing autoflowering strains.