By Luke Sumpter

When talking about cannabis strains, most will likely think of the two predominant subtypes: indica and sativa.

However, most everyday consumers aren’t aware that there is a lesser known type of cannabis that has transformed the world of cultivation and strain creation: Cannabis ruderalis.


What is Cannabis Ruderalis?

So, what is ruderalis? To answer that question, let’s travel back to the origin of this unique type of cannabis.

Ruderalis Origins

Cannabis ruderalis is thought to have originated thousands of years ago in areas of Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, and specifically Russia, where it continues to grow as a “weed” today.

Botanists named it “ruderalis” (the word “ruderal” meaning something that grows on waste ground or among rubbish) to classify it as a type of cannabis plant with a weedy nature that escaped human cultivation and adapted to the extreme environments found in these climates.

Ruderalis is often described as the third type of cannabis along with Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, although botanists are unsure whether it qualifies as a species in its own right. Genetically, Cannabis ruderalis is somewhere between indica and sativa varieties.

IS RUDERALIS THE SAME AS HEMP?

Is Ruderalis the Same as Hemp?

Hemp isn’t a different species of cannabis. We use the term “hemp” to refer to a type of selectively bred cannabis that contains minimal THC levels. To qualify as hemp, cannabis in the US needs to contain less than 0.3% THC. In Europe, the threshold is between 0.2–0.3% THC depending on the country.

Even though Cannabis ruderalis has very low levels of THC (below 3%), it still has more than hemp. However, hemp and ruderalis often contain similar CBD levels, although these vary too.

Hemp is also a more versatile plant than ruderalis. Humans have cultivated hemp for millennia, using it for many different purposes, from making fabrics and paper to food, biofuel, and health supplements.

Ruderalis, on the other hand, is a type of cannabis used almost exclusively for one purpose: breeding.

In order to be classified as hemp, ruderalis would need to contain a THC content below the legal limits mentioned above. Otherwise, ruderalis would only be considered legal in areas where recreational and/or medical cannabis can be grown and purchased.

Sativa, Indica, and... Ruderalis!

So, what are the differences between Cannabis indica, sativa, and ruderalis? Let’s take a quick look to compare their characteristics.

  • Sativas
Cannabis Sativa

Grow best in hot climates with ample sun. Plants grow slim and tall with long, thin, finger-like leaves. Expect heights exceeding 3m and a cerebral “head high” that is energetic, creative, uplifting, and euphoric. Best for daytime use.

  • Indicas
    Cannabis Indica

    Better suited for colder climates. More robust with better resistance. Plants grow shorter and bushier with wider leaves. Indicas tend to induce a body high that is physically relaxing and "Stoning". Great as a sleeping aid and appetite stimulator. Best for nighttime use.

    • Hybrids
    Cannabis Hybrids

    A mix of sativa and indica genetics. They grow vigorously with good resistance. Can display qualities of both indica and sativa in growing characteristics and effects.

    • Ruderalis
    Cannabis Ruderalis

    Wild cannabis that has adapted to extreme environments. Very short and compact plants with small, chunky buds. Grows as a weed even “among rubbish” and is extremely robust with good resistance. Contains little (<3%) THC but has high levels of CBD.

    Ruderalis: The Original Autoflowering Cannabis

    In the past, ruderalis didn’t really have a significant role. It isn’t valuable for agricultural or recreational use. So, why did people start using it? Well, we have yet to mention ruderalis' most sought-after quality; the one that has made it a new staple in the cannabis community. Unlike sativa or indica, ruderalis doesn’t rely on daylight hours to bloom, instead blooming based on age.

    Autoflowering weed plants flower on their own after around ~3–4 weeks of vegetative growth. Cannabis ruderalis likely developed this autoflowering trait as a response to the considerably short summers yet long daylight hours (22–24 hours) of its native habitats.


    Thanks to this autoflowering capability, ruderalis can be used to breed new cannabis strains. Although it may not be desirable for recreational or medicinal purposes on its own, when crossed with high-quality indica/sativa/hybrid cultivars, ruderalis can endow the resulting strain with the autoflowering trait. This significantly reduces stress on the grower, allowing them to keep plants under a consistent 18–20-hour light schedule throughout all phases of growth.

    Aside from light schedule, autoflowers offer the advantage of a faster overall grow cycle. This lessens the threat of losing good cannabis to bad weather and allows growers the opportunity to harvest multiple crops per season and per year. Beginner growers and experienced cash-croppers alike have taken to autoflowers (and therefore ruderalis) for these very reasons.

    Fast Facts on Ruderalis
    Appearance Yield

    • Short and bulky, fewer branches

    • Wide, 3-fingered leaves

    • Small buds

    • 50–60cm in height

    • Low yields, “popcorn” buds
    Effects Autoflowering

    • Barely psychoactive (below 3% THC)

    • Contains some CBD for sub-perceptual effects

    • Spends ~3–4 weeks in vegetative growth

    • Blooms independently

    • Ready to harvest around 70–110 days from seed

    Ruderalis Genetics: Autoflowering Strains From Royal Queen Seeds

    At Royal Queen Seeds, we breed autoflower strains using the best genetics to ensure excellent performance and results.

    1. Royal Dwarf

    Royal Dwarf

    Royal Dwarf is a short, stout, fast-growing autoflower that’s excellent for indoor cultivation. Staying at a convenient 40–60cm, this “bonsai” among cannabis fits everywhere. The sativa-dominant variety is ready in just 8–9 weeks from seed. The girl is supercharged with potent Skunk genetics and has a social, uplifting effect that she rounds off with a relaxing and soothing stone.

    2. Northern Light Automatic

    Northern Light Automatic

    One of the most popular Afghani-derived indicas, this autoflowering variety won’t get taller than 100–120cm and races to harvest in 9–10 weeks. Northern Light Automatic has a nice, sweet taste and a very relaxing effect with a slightly heady, happy note. Great for medicinal users as a sleep aid. Good yields of 550g/m² indoors and 200g/plant outdoors will make growers very happy!

    3. Solomatic CBD

    Solomatic CBD

    Solomatic CBD is the first CBD-rich strain from our catalogue to feature an impressive CBD:THC ratio of around 22:1! Unlike many other CBD-rich strains, this strain is sure to never contain more than 1% THC. Yet, she boasts a staggering 21% CBD, which makes her ideal for medicinal users and those with little tolerance for THC. Vaping her will inspire pure joy thanks to her sweet and fruity flavour accented by hints of ginger and pine.

    Tips for Growing Autoflowering Cannabis

    Did we make you curious about growing autoflowers? Follow these tips to look forward to a successful grow with plenty of fat buds come harvest!

    • Don’t repot your autoflowers: Autoflowers don’t have time to recover from stress. Start plants in their final pot.
    • Use a root stimulator: Because the lifespan of autoflowers is limited, a root stimulator can help optimise development.
    • Use light and airy soil: Don’t make it difficult for your autoflowers to grow and expand their roots. Encourage fast growth by using light and airy soil.
    • Use a big-enough container: Autoflowers won’t grow too tall, but a pot that’s too small will negatively affect growth and yield.
    • Don’t overdo it with water and nutrients: Autoflowers need less water and fewer nutrients than feminized cannabis. Don’t overdo it.
    • Watch out for pests: Good thing autoflowers grow fast, so there is less risk for pest infestations. But, you should still check for pests when growing outdoors in particular. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can do wonders to eradicate many common cannabis pests.

    You can find more tips on growing autoflowers indoors here, and tips on growing autoflowers outdoors here!

    More Info at Royal Queen Seeds

    Want more info on all things autoflowering? Take a look at our blogs on maximising your autoflowering yield, the pros and cons of autoflowers, and our top 10 autoflowering strain recommendations. RQS has all the info you need!

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    Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

    To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


    COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

    C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

    +34 937 379 846

    support@royalqueenseeds.com


    The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

    ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

    SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

    1.1 Account purchases

    Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

    This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

    Purpose of data collection

    We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

    (a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

    (b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

    (c) to conduct market research and analysis;

    (d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

    1.2 Newsletters

    With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

    We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

    Purpose of data collection

    The data collected is used to:

    (a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

    (b) provide gender-specific content.

    You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

    1.3 Customer service and contact form

    In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

    SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

    If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

    2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

    If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

    SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

    We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

    SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

    At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

    4.1 Account information

    Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

    4.2 Newsletters

    In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

    SECTION 5 – COOKIES

    Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

    5.1 Functional Cookies

    Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

    5.2 Analytical Cookies

    Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

    SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

    Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

    However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

    We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

    In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

    Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

    Web analytics service (anonymous data)

    On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

    Courier service

    To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

    Mailing service

    Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

    Marketing services

    Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

    Payment services

    At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

    SECTION 6 – SECURITY

    To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

    If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

    Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

    SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

    We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

    SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: