Landrace Strains: Pure Origins of Cannabis
Cannabis strains today all trace back to pure, ancient varieties known as “landraces.” These unique plants naturally evolved in specific regions over centuries, adapting to local climates without any human interference. Franco Loja of Green House Seed Co.—a famed seed bank—alongside the Strain Hunters, has dedicated his life to exploring the world to find and preserve these rare landraces.
Discover the rich heritage of landrace cannabis strains—nature’s untouched varieties thriving in diverse global landscapes.
Why Are Landraces So Important?
Landraces are the purest forms of cannabis, perfected by nature over hundreds, sometimes thousands, of years. These plants adapt to their environments, growing larger, stronger, and more resilient. Their buds often produce more complex resins packed with richcannabinoids and terpenes. When cultivated properly, they can yield substantial harvests. Most crucially, landraces serve as the genetic foundation for breeding new cannabis strains, ensuring diversity and quality in modern varieties.
How Many Landrace Varieties Are There?
Cannabis landraces can be found around the globe. Arjan Roskam, the founder of Amsterdam’s Green House Seeds, has been on a mission to collect these landraces since the 1980s. His travels have taken him to places like Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos), Africa, and South America. Since launching the Strain Hunters project in 2008, they’ve documented their journeys in South Africa, India, Jamaica, Morocco, and more recently, Colombia with Vice.com.
Sativa vs. Indica: Regional Differences
The type of landrace—whether Sativa or Indica—often depends on the region. True Indica landraces primarily come from Asia, especially in the Hindu Kush region (Afghanistan, Pakistan, North India, and South China). Meanwhile, landraces found in Africa, South America, and Central America are predominantly Sativa. In Europe and North America, landraces are generally low-THC hemp, except for some regions in North Africa (like Morocco).
- Durban Poison (South Africa): A pure Sativa landrace known for its uplifting effects.
- Afghani (Afghanistan): A classic Indica landrace cherished for its relaxing properties.
