http://en.sensiseeds.com/difference-between-indica-and-sativa/What is the difference between Indica and Sativa?
Scientifically (and legally), all cannabis is Cannabis sativa L..In practice, Indica and Sativa are the names used to distinguish each end of the cannabis ‘spectrum’. There are a multitude of different growth-patterns, qualities and effects within this spectrum, most of which are a result of cannabis’ remarkable ability to adapt to its environment. Genetically, and in terms of interbreeding, all cannabis is in the same family.
Cannabis indica L.
Most Indica varieties come from central Asia and the Indian subcontinent (Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Tibet, Nepal, etc.).
Indicas are compact and stocky, with dense, heavy, fragrant buds. Cannabis plants produce nodes at regular intervals along their stems, and these nodes are the sites at which leaves, branches and flowers (buds) form. Indica buds tend to grow in dense clusters around the nodes of the stem and branches, with relatively short spaces (known as internodal gaps) between each cluster.
Indicas are the faster flowering varieties, usually with a flowering time of 45 to 60 days.
Indicas gain height rapidly once flowering has begun. An Indica may be expected to increase its vegetated height by a factor of 50-100% during its flowering period.
The effect of Indica is generally classified as a ‘stone’, meaning that it is more centred on the body. It may enhance physical sensations such as taste, touch and sound. It has a relaxing effect – mentally and physically – and may be soporific in larger doses.
Cannabis sativa L.
Sativas generally originate in the equatorial regions – Thailand, Cambodia, Jamaica, Mexico, etc.
Given the same conditions, Sativas grow taller than Indicas. Sativa buds tend grow larger than Indica, as they run along the length of a branch instead of clustering around the nodes. However, they will usually weigh less than Indica when dry, due to their lower density. Sativa buds also tend to have a less striking odour, both when growing and when dry.
Sativas take longer to flower. They will usually need between 60 and 90 days to finish blooming. However, they need less time for vegetative growth prior to flowering than Indicas do, so the overall time required for Sativas is about the same as for Indicas (and sometimes less in terms of ‘light hours’).
Sativas will usually continue to gain height while flowering, often gaining 200%, 300% or more of their vegetative height while flowering. This is because around the equator there is not so much difference in the number of daylight hours between winter and summer. Therefore, Sativas in their native environment will grow and flower at the same time. For this reason indoor growers should not allow a Sativa too much vegetative growth before inducing flowering. When growing from clones, many Sativa varieties may be flowered as soon as the clone has rooted.
Despite their lower weight and potentially longer flowering time, Sativas are valued by many growers for their ‘high’ effect. This high may be characterized as cerebral, energetic, creative, giggly or even psychedelic. It is less overpowering than the Indica ‘stone’, and less likely to send the user to sleep.
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