Exploring Cannabis Flower: Alternative Names and Origins

Learn about the various names for cannabis "flower" in the industry and discover the fascinating origin of its popular terminology.

Dr. Aaron Boorstein

12/14/20241 min read

green cannabis plants during daytime
green cannabis plants during daytime

Did you know? The term "flower" in cannabis refers to the buds of the marijuana plant, prized for their rich cannabinoid and terpene content.

In the cannabis industry, "flower" is often referred to by a variety of names, including:

  1. Bud - Highlighting the specific part of the plant used for consumption.

  2. Nug or Nugget - A casual term emphasizing the dense and compact nature of high-quality flower.

  3. Green - Reflecting the iconic color of the dried plant.

  4. Herb - Recognizing its plant-based, natural qualities.

  5. Smoke - A nod to its most common method of consumption.

  6. Ganja - A term derived from Hindi and popularized through Rastafarian culture.

  7. Reefer - A dated but still recognized term, often associated with cannabis's cultural history.

Origins of the Term "Flower"

The name "flower" likely originates from botany and horticulture, where the reproductive structure of a plant is referred to as a flower. In cannabis, this structure develops into resin-rich buds. These buds, harvested and dried, contain the psychoactive compounds THC and CBD, making them the focal point for both recreational and medicinal use.

Globally, terminology may vary based on local cultures, slang, and language, but "flower" has become a universal term in the cannabis community, signifying the raw, unprocessed form of the plant used for consumption.