Cannabis ruderalis is one of the three primary varieties of the cannabis plant, alongside Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. It is believed to have originated in the wild regions of Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia and Siberia. The term "ruderalis" comes from "ruderal," an ecological term used to describe plants that thrive in disturbed environments. Unlike its counterparts, Cannabis ruderalis is a small plant, typically reaching only 1 to 2.5 feet in height, with a bushy appearance and wide, light-green leaves. One of its most notable characteristics is its autoflowering ability, meaning it begins flowering automatically after a few weeks of growth, regardless of light cycles. This trait likely developed as an adaptation to the shorter growing seasons in its native regions.

Cannabis ruderalis generally has low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, resulting in minimal psychoactive effects. However, it is sometimes bred for its cannabidiol (CBD) content, making it valuable in producing CBD-rich strains. Due to its resilience and ability to thrive in harsh climates, Cannabis ruderalis is often used in breeding programs to create hybrid strains that combine its autoflowering trait with the desirable characteristics of Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. These hybrids, such as "Lowryder" and "Amnesia Haze Auto," are popular among growers for their shorter cultivation times and ability to flower under various light conditions.

While Cannabis ruderalis is not typically used for recreational purposes due to its low THC content, its hybrids are valuable in medicinal cannabis production, especially for conditions that respond well to CBD. Despite its advantages, including hardiness and versatility, Cannabis ruderalis has limitations, such as lower yields and reduced potency compared to other cannabis varieties. Nonetheless, it plays a unique role in the cannabis world, particularly in the development of autoflowering strains that are easier to cultivate and manage.