Explained: What does a weed plant look like? (With Pictures)

How do you know if you’re looking at real weed? This post will have you identifying cannabis plants like it’s your job, based on characteristics and techniques any expert would recommend. 

 

What does a cannabis plant look like?

A cannabis plant is a vibrant, green plant with a distinctive appearance. It typically has a central stem with several branches extending outward, covered in serrated, fan-shaped leaves. 

 

The exact physical look of a cannabis plant is shaped most by whether it’s a sativa or indica. 

 

• Sativa – Tall, long & thin leaves, more spread out branches. 
• Indica – Shorter & bushier, broad/wide leaves, dense structure. 

Take a look at the image below. That’s a sativa strain. Notice the longer stature and spread out branches/leaves. 

 

Now look at the indica strain below. It’s shorter, bushier, and more dense. 

 

There are specific parts to every cannabis plant. Here’s what they are and how to recognize them:

 

1. Leaves: The leaves are one of the most recognizable features, with their iconic serrated edges and finger-like structure, usually in groups of five to seven leaflets.
2. Stem and branches: The main stem supports the plant, while the branches extend outwards, bearing the leaves and flowers.
3. Flowers (buds): The most coveted part of the plant, where the cannabinoids are concentrated. They are typically dense, sticky, and covered in trichomes (tiny hairs).

 

Flower

The cannabis flower, also known as the bud, is the reproductive part of the plant and is highly valued for its cannabinoid content. 

 

It is characterized by its density, stickiness, and vibrant colors, ranging from bright green to deep purples. High-quality flowers often have orange or red hairs (pistils) interspersed throughout.

 

Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny, crystal-like structures that cover the cannabis flower. 

 

These glandular structures produce and store the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, which are responsible for its potency and aroma. Under a microscope, trichomes look like tiny, sparkling mushrooms.

 

Other Parts of the Cannabis Plant

1. Cola: The main cluster of buds at the top of the plant.
2. Pistils: The hair-like structures that can be orange, red, or brown.
3. Sugar Leaves: Small leaves coated in trichomes, usually trimmed off the buds but still potent.
4. Fan Leaves: Large, broad leaves that help the plant with photosynthesis. These are often removed before harvesting.

 

What Does a Cannabis Plant Look Like at Each Stage of the Growth Cycle?

Seedling Stage

In the seedling stage, the cannabis plant starts as a tiny sprout emerging from the soil. It has two small, rounded leaves called cotyledons. These initial leaves will give way to the characteristic serrated leaves as the plant grows.

 

Vegetative Stage

During the vegetative stage, the plant undergoes rapid growth. The stem thickens, and branches extend outward, producing large, fan-shaped leaves. The plant can grow several inches to a few feet tall during this stage, depending on the strain and growing conditions.

 

Pre-Flowering Stage

In the pre-flowering stage, the plant starts to show signs of its sex. Female plants will develop small, white hairs (pistils) at the nodes where branches meet the stem. The plant continues to grow, but the focus shifts towards preparing for flowering.

 

Flowering Stage

The flowering stage is when the cannabis plant starts to produce buds. The buds will gradually swell and become dense, with trichomes forming on their surfaces. This stage can last several weeks, and the plant’s appearance will change as the buds develop and mature.

 

Harvesting Stage

At the harvesting stage, the buds are fully developed and coated with trichomes. The pistils will have darkened from white to orange or brown, indicating the plant is ready for harvest. The leaves may yellow and die off as the plant puts its energy into the buds.

 

What Does Good Weed Look Like?

High-quality weed, often referred to as “dank” or “fire,” has several distinct characteristics:

 

1. Appearance: Good weed is usually bright green with vibrant hues of purple, red, or orange. The buds should be dense and well-formed.
2. Trichome Coverage: The more trichomes, the better. A frosty, sparkling appearance indicates high cannabinoid content.
3. Aroma: A strong, pungent smell is a sign of good quality. The aroma can range from sweet and fruity to earthy and skunky, depending on the strain.
4. Feel: Quality buds are sticky to the touch due to the resin from the trichomes. They should not be overly dry or crumbly.

 

Learn how to spot bad cannabis or “dirt weed.”

 

Love learning about cannabis?

THC University has over a decade of experience educating cannabis lovers. Students go on to work as budtenders, cultivators, managers, and other crucial roles in the cannabis industry.

 

Check out our affordable course offerings to get trained and certified today!