Are There Any Other Plants That Grow Buds Similar to Marijuana Plants?

Many wonder if there are other plants that exhibit bud structures similar to those of marijuana plants. While the interpretation of 'similarity' can vary, it's fascinating to explore the botanical world and identify plants that share certain characteristics with the Cannabis family.

Hops Plant: A Close Cousin

Hops plants, scientifically classified under the genus Humulus, are indeed close cousins to marijuana. Both belong to the Cannabaceae plant family. Taxonomically, Humulus is considered the closest living relative to marijuana (Cannabis) that has been identified to date. This close relationship has led to some interesting discussions and even experiments.

Chemical Mirroring and Hybridization

One intriguing implication of this taxonomic closeness is the possibility of hybridization. Some botanists and hobbyists have attempted to graft hops shoots onto cannabis rootstocks, aiming to produce plants that exhibit characteristics of both species. Although these experiments have not been widely documented, the idea of 'hops and cannabis' hybrid plants is not entirely out of the realm of possibility.

The chemical profile of hops and cannabis is notably similar. Hops contain compounds like alpha and beta acids, which contribute to the unique flavor and aroma of beer. Similarly, marijuana contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which give it medicinal and recreational properties. If successful, grafting could potentially result in plants that have both the flavor profile of hops and the chemical properties of cannabis.

Coors and Rocky Mountain High

The idea of Coors Brewing Company using such hybrid plants to create a truly 'Rocky Mountain High' is a popular joke among beer and cannabis enthusiasts. While this has not come to fruition yet, it adds an interesting twist to the relationship between these two plants.

Understanding the Cannabis Family

To further understand the relationship between hops and marijuana, it's crucial to delve into the taxonomy of the Cannabaceae family. This family includes several genera, and Humulus is one among them. The other genera in the Cannabaceae family include:

Celtis: Also known asNettletree, includes plants such as hackberry Frenelopsis: A Paleozoic genus, now extinct, that was closely related to modern trees Platynaryttia: Another Paleozoic genus, now extinct

While Humulus is the most relevant to our discussion, it is part of a broader family that is continually being studied and explored. Understanding the taxonomy and evolutionary history of the Cannabis family can provide valuable insights into the similarities and differences between plants within this group.

Conclusion

While the concept of marijuana-like hop buds is intriguing and has some scientific merit, it remains largely a hypothesis without substantial evidence. However, the close relationship between hops and marijuana highlights the complex and fascinating world of botany. As research and experiments continue, we may see even more interesting developments in the future.