Marijuana, Cannabis, Hemp, Weed, Pot
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Equisetopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Cannabaceae, Genus: Cannabis, Species: Cannabis sativa · Cannabaceae (Cannabis and Hemp family) · Palmately compound, deciduous/annual
Species
Cannabis sativa
Leaf Type
Palmately compound, deciduous/annual
Family
Cannabaceae (Cannabis and Hemp family)
Shape
Palmate with typically 5 to 9 lanceolate leaflets
Size
Approximately 4-6 inches across for the full compound leaf, with individual leaflets ranging from 2-4 inches long
Margin
Serrate (coarsely toothed)
Arrangement
Opposite near the base, transitioning to alternate higher up on the main flowering stalks
Rarity
Common (frequently cultivated legally or illegally, and found as a weed in disturbed areas)
Color & Pattern
Dark green on the upper surface and a lighter green on the underside; colors appear typical and healthy for a mature summer specimen
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation on individual leaflets with a prominent central midrib
Texture & Surface
Slightly rough with fine glandular trichomes visible under magnification, creating a slightly sticky texture
Description
An annual, dioecious herb with upright, robust stems and distinctive palmately compound leaves. The plant features aromatic foliage, resin-producing glands, and produces small, inconspicuous green flowers that develop into small achenes.
Key Features
Palmately compound leaves with serrated margins, distinctively symmetrical star-like arrangement of leaflets, and glandular trichomes that produce strong aromas
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed soils, rich nitrogen-rich substrates, sunny temperate or tropical environments, widely cultivated indoors and outdoors
Geographic Range
Native to Central and South Asia, now widely cultivated and naturalized globally across temperate and tropical zones
Condition Notes
Good health; the leaf is freshly picked with minor handling wear but free of major pest damage or fungal disease
Interesting Facts
Cannabis is one of the oldest domesticated crops, used historically for strong textile fibers, nutritious seeds, medicinal purposes, and psychoactive properties
Medicinal & Uses
Used for fiber (hemp), nutritional seeds and oil, and various medical applications due to cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Highly regulated in many jurisdictions
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for various insects; seeds are a valuable food source for birds. Often used in phytoremediation to absorb heavy metals from soil
Similar Species
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) has similar palmate leaf shapes, but is woody with opposite, simple-lobed leaves rather than distinct compound leaflets
Foraging Tips
Look for disturbed soils, old agricultural sites, or sunny edges of woods. Be aware of legal status and local regulations regarding wild or cultivated specimens
Toxicity Warning
Mildly to moderately toxic depending on consumption and strain due to psychoactive cannabinoids; safe for wildlife in small amounts but restricted for humans