Indian Hemp (Cannabis indica)

Indian Hemp

Cannabis indica

It bears resinous psychoactive buds, a controversial yet culturally significant herb. Flowering annual herb; common names: Indian Hemp, Marijuana.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun to partial shade; consistent daily light supports healthy bud development and resin production
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperate to subtropical temperatures; avoid exposure to temperatures below 10°C as it will stunt growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Palmately compound with 5–11 serrated leaflets; deep green, aromatic when crushed
  • Flower: Dioecious; male flowers are small yellow-green panicles, female flowers form resinous buds
  • Stem: Hollow, erect stem covered in trichomes that produce cannabinoid-rich resin
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active vegetative growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks during vegetative growth. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent nutrient burn on leaves and buds

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid using raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor
Pruning
  • Remove male plants immediately upon identification to prevent pollination of female buds (for seedless flower production)
  • Thin lower leaves to improve airflow and direct light to upper bud sites
  • Trim excess foliage around buds in late summer to enhance resin production and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes central nervous system depression, vomiting, and incoordination

Humans: Contains psychoactive cannabinoids (THC) that cause altered mental state; long-term use may have chronic health impacts

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Historically used for fiber, medicinal purposes, and religious rituals; currently a controversial plant due to psychoactive properties

Usage: Fiber production for textiles and paper; medicinal cannabis (legal in select regions); recreational use (restricted in most countries)