Beyond THC : Cannabis Breeding Terminology

Cannabis plant by Mark, licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

        Most stoners know the classic strains, Sour Diesel, Zkittles, and Blue Dream ring delightfully in a weedsmoker’s ears. But do some strains leave you scratching your head at the dispensary? There’s fun weed names, then there's strains that look more like an algebra equation and make you just as confused.  MAC1 x Papaya Cake F3 BX2 doesn’t exactly roll of the tongue, nor is it understood by casual weed smokers.

    At Starbird, we are all about clarity and education. Instead of giving you the easy answer, let’s get familiar with cannabis breeding terminology and what these indicators mean. It might help you when choosing your next strain, because you’ll know the genetic makeup of the plant rather than being puzzled by the name.

Why Does Cannabis Breeding Matter?

Understanding cannabis breeding opens up a whole world of personalized smoking experiences.

Gelato strains, for example, are often listed as hybrids. One of our staff members finds that most strains with Gelato genetics makes them feel tired, sluggish, and uninspired. Unless they’re trying to knock out for the night, those strains are a hard pass.

This is where knowing cannabis genetics becomes a big advantage. You don’t have to guess—you can use that insight to avoid unwanted effects and choose strains that actually align with your preferences. Relying solely on traditional labels like Indica, Sativa, and THC percentage is like reaching into a bag of marbles and hoping to grab your favorite color. These markers often miss the full picture—not every Sativa is energetic, and not every Indica will leave you glued to the couch.

If you’ve followed our blog or shopped with us before, you know THC percentage is the last thing our budtenders emphasize. Strain genetics and terpenes are the real keys to understanding how a high will feel. Since effects can vary from person to person, we always recommend chatting with our budtenders. We love talking weed, and you might even find a staff member who shares your exact taste! For example, if you’re into powerful, relaxing strains, talk to Kerri—she’s got great picks.

Already know you love the effects of Blue Dream? Learning that its parent strains are Blueberry and Haze can help you find other strains with similar effects. Suddenly, you're not just picking up a bag of weed—you’re curating a personalized experience every time.

How Do Growers Make New Strains of Weed?

Back in the 1960s and 1970s, cannabis plants were landrace strains. Landrace strains are native plants born in specific regions of the world. Cannabis is not exclusive to one region, it has been grown all over the world! From India and Afghanistan, to Thailand and Vietnam, South Africa and Congo, and the popular Mexican and Colombian varieties. The recreational and medical use of cannabis has been discovered in all these places and more!

It was in the 1970s when cannabis growers began crossbreeding these strains together to get higher potency and varied effects. Some of them prioritized a certain aroma or appearance. Early examples of these include Haze, Skunk and Northern Lights. Since these landrace strains were exclusively Indica or Sativa, these growers were the first to create Hybrids. The optimal effects from each strain in synthesis. These early crossbreeds are the building blocks for most of the cannabis we smoke today!

This process of cannabis breeding is done by collecting pollen from a male cannabis plant, and manually using that pollen to fertilize a female plant. The seeds from this plant with result in a mix of both genetics, like a cute little cannabis baby! Growers then raise those seeds, observe their genetic expression and select the plants with the more desirable traits. There are many different methods for genetic enhancement that cannabis breeders practice. Let’s take a peak at these popular terms, which can aid you in selecting the perfect strains next time you stop in Starbird!

Image: Marijuana seeds by Bogdan, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Why Are Cannabis Strains Numbered?

You might see familiar strains that have numbered indicators. At Starbird we have had MAC 1 and MAC 31, Candy Store #25 and Candy Store #38, and many others. If you’ve been wondering why, you are not alone! This is one of the most common questions we receive.

These numbered strains come from the phenohunting process. Phenohunting is the term for when a cannabis grower raises a batch of seeds from the same plant, then label each individual plant. Even though the seeds come from the same plant, they may express traits of their parent strains. This is where the difference lies. You might get a Blue Dream that has more influence of Blueberry, making it a bit more subdued. Alternatively, it could possess more classic Sativa traits of Haze. To indicate the variety, growers will number a strain. They do this not only for transparency with consumers, but also to market their specific work under their name. Let it be known that other cannabis breeding terminology will include number indicators as well, like S1 and F1, or BX so make sure to read along so you don’t get these mixed up.

Why Cannabis Strains Have X in their Name?

The letter “X” in cannabis doesn’t represent a specific flavor or effect—it simply means “crossed with.” It indicates that two parent strains were bred together to create a new one, combining traits from both plants. Typically, this happens through cross-pollination, where a female plant of one strain is fertilized with pollen from a male plant of another.

For example, Mandarin Cookies x Haze represents a blend of the aroma, flavor, and effects from both strains. Sometimes, breeders name the resulting strain something completely original, while others keep the “x” in the name to highlight its genetic lineage.

So don’t let the “x” throw you off—it’s just a shorthand for the genetic blueprint of your weed. Instead of saying a strain is a mix of two, budtenders and growers will reference it as a crossbreed.

What is a BX Weed Strain?

BX is a bit different from the standard "X" you see in strain names. It stands for backcross, which means a plant is bred with one of its parent strains to strengthen or stabilize specific traits. In simple terms, it's a form of inbreeding—bad for humans, but great for cannabis plants!

Backcrossing is often used to enhance or lock in desirable characteristics, like flavor, potency, or aroma. For example, if you were growing a Tangie strain and wanted to boost its fruity citrus profile, you could breed it with one of its parents, California Orange. The result would be Tangie BX1—the “BX1” showing that it’s the first backcross to its parent. 

This process doesn’t have to stop at BX1. Breeders often continue to backcross for multiple generations, so you might see labels like BX3, BX4—we’ve even seen BX8 at Starbird! By repeatedly breeding the offspring with the original parent plant, growers are able to capture consistent, reliable traits. The more a strain is backcrossed, the more refined and predictable it becomes. Think of it like making juice concentrate—the more you reduce it, the more intense and focused the flavor gets. Backcrossing works the same way: it distills a plant’s most desirable qualities into a more stable, predictable result.

BX strains are common in modern cannabis breeding and can lead to more consistent, reliable flower, especially for people chasing a specific effect or flavor.

Cannabis plant by Mark, licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

What do F1 and F2 mean?

F1 stands for First Filial Generation—a sophisticated way of saying it’s the first batch of offspring from two different parent strains. If a breeder crossbred GMO x Zkittlez, the resulting seeds would be considered F1s, expressing a blend of traits from both parents. So, when you see an “X” between strain names, it usually indicates a first-generation cross, meaning the seeds are F1s. Because it’s the initial generation, F1 plants tend to be uniform and predictable. It’s like creating a new recipe for the first time—it’s fresh, balanced, and full of potential.

F2 represents the Second Filial Generation, which is created by crossing F1 plants with each other. Unlike F1s, F2 seeds tend to show more genetic variety, meaning one plant might lean more toward one parent, while another might express unexpected or hidden traits. If F1 is your original recipe, F2 is the remix—some results will surprise you, for better or worse. This generation is especially important in phenohunting, where breeders select standout traits to refine and stabilize in future generations. While F2s offer more diversity, they also come with less predictability—making them a bit of a wild card in cultivation. 

 This process can continue to F3, F4 and beyond just like backcrossing. By the time a plant has reached F4, if done correctly, it represents a very polished plant with refined characteristics. 

Why Are Cannabis Strains Called S1 and S2?

S1 stands for “Selfed First Generation.” Similar in purpose to a BX (backcross) but created in a different way. S1 seeds are produced when a female plant is pollinated with itself—instead of being crossed with a different strain. Breeders do this by inducing the plant to produce pollen, often using a method like applying colloidal silver. That pollen is then used to fertilize another female clone of the same plant—or even the same plant itself.

The result is a batch of S1 seeds, which are essentially genetic copies of that one female. Breeders usually do this when they believe the plant has exceptional, stable traits worth preserving. S1 seeds tend to be much more consistent than F1s, though some variation may still occur depending on the stability of the original genetics.

S2 stands for Selfed Second Generation. When breeders self-pollinate an S1 strain to produce an S2, they’re working toward enhanced genetic stability and uniformity. This process helps lock in desirable traits, resulting in plants with more consistent characteristics—ideal for growers seeking predictability in their crops. However, as genetic variation decreases, there can be increased sensitivity to pests, diseases, or environmental stress. This phenomenon, known as inbreeding depression, may sometimes affect yield or vigor. Still, when done by experienced cultivators who understand genetic balancing, selfed generations like S2 or S3 can produce exceptional results. So, don't be quick to judge these plants—many showcase fine-tuned traits and elite lineage that only skilled breeding can achieve.

   They can be complex, but clarifying these specific terms can greatly broaden your understanding of cannabis. At Starbird, we believe every strain has a backstory and intention. That’s why it is vital to ask questions and clarify your wants and needs. If you need a cheat sheet, here’s a quick visual to keep in mind.

The following terms are less formal , but very helpful to be familiar with. Every patron at our dispensary finds the names either fun, silly or outright ridiculous. But there’s more that goes into it than you think! Most plants take their names from their parent strains to market them based on their genetics. Platinum Kush Breath might sound made up out of humor, but there's three words that are big indicators of the nature of that strain. Being armed with this knowledge can greatly enhance your understanding of cannabis, and supply you with the best strains every time you visit Starbird to re-up your stash.

Kush 

Kush technically refers to the landrace weed that grows in the Hindu Kush mountain range in Northern India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. This area has some of the oldest cannabis strains on earth- where all pure Indica spawn from. But Kush doesn’t always refer to landrace Kush. It is often a nod to OG Kush, which was popularized in the early 90s. OG Kush circulated the market via clones, not seedbanks, so it was a tight circle of growers who worked with it.  It is widely speculated that OG Kush is a crossbreed of Lemon Thai, Chemdawg and Pakistani Kush. Since the Pakistani Kush was crossbreed with Sativa strains to stabilize it, it will often have some uplifting characteristics paired with a blissful body buzz. Kush can have a complex array of flavors and aromas, including diesel, pine, frankincense and classic stinky skunk. 

Although Kush often refers to OG Kush, there are many other types of Kush that flood the market, such as Triangle Kush or Master Kush. Some other popular strains are Bubba Kush, Kush Mints, and Kosher Kush. This type of strain is well loved throughout the cannabis industry, but especially if you’re after a powerful body high, stress reduction and pain relief. If that’s what you’re after, make sure to keep Kush on your radar when selecting a strain. 

OG

Many people believe that OG stands for “Ocean Grown” in tribute to being grown on the West Coast, usually California. Others swear it stands for Original Gangsta due to pop culture. Either way, they pay homage to old school strains. Typically derived from OG Kush, these strains have a muskier, skunky aroma and more relaxing effects. But sometimes, OG can stand for the original cut of a particular strain, which demonstrates a verified version from a specific grower. If you see OG in the title of a strain, expect a nod to tradition and that funky, old school taste.

Platinum

A popular descriptor you’ll see in plenty of dispensaries. Many believe Platinum to mean top shelf cannabis, which isn’t exactly true. It refers to crossbreeds of Platinum OG, which in itself is believed to be a mix of Master Kush, OG Kush and another unknown strain. The effects are deeply relaxing and perfect for wrapping up in a blanket with a good movie. If you crave powerful euphoria with an intense body buzz, strains with Platinum in the name could be ideal for you. 

Z ( Zkittles) 

Seeing in Z in strains is usually indicative of Zkittlez genetics, which itself is Grape Ape x Grapefruit. This Hybrid-Indica strain has distinctive fruity candy and funk taste, and is extremely popular especially in recent years. It is perfectly mellow without being sleepy, and brings a tranquil mental high that feels chill and happy. It is ideal for relieving stress or chilling with a movie without knocking out.

    Runtz is a great example of a crossbreed of Zkittlez. Runtz is Zkittlez x Gelato, and delivers the fun high with a more powerful body effect. Other examples include Zoap, Zlushie or Project Z. The taste of the strain is so distinct that many stoners request something with “ Z terpenes” quite often! So if you’re in the market for a sweet, delectable strain with a laid back high, keep your eye out for Zs!

Haze

One of the most popular lineages of cannabis, Haze is loved for its cerebral, creative and uplifting effects. One of the first popular crossbreeds, Haze is a blend of Sativa from Thailand, Mexico, Colombia and India. These strains possess a fun, bright and jubilant high matched with a unique aroma of spice, fruit and earth. Haze is another classic building block of modern cannabis strains, and is definitely intended for musicians, visual artists and all other sorts of imaginative creators!

Super Silver Haze, Jack Herer, Purple Haze and Blue Dream are all children of the impactful Original Haze! If you desire a heady, lucid or euphoric effects, see try to look for Haze on the menu.

Lemon

Lemon strains aren’t always derived from a specific lineage. You can find the title “Lemon” in Indica, Sativa and Hybrid, however they are most often found in Sativa strains. This is because the tasty citrus taste of some cannabis comes from the terpene limonene , which can have mood boosting qualities. Although not all citrus strains are connected, a great early example is Las Vegas Lemon Skunk. A phenotype of Skunk #1, this strain possessed an optimal expression of fruity terpenes and smelled like a glass of sour lemonade. Continued breeding of these traits led to a whole pocket of breeders who sought after the most ideal, lemon peel like flavor and aroma.

If you crave cannabis that has a delectable taste and puts a spring in your step, these almost never fail to deliver those cheery effects. Some reliable strains include Super Lemon Haze, Lemon Diesel, Lemon Cane, or Lemon Tree. Due to its popularity, its very probable you will see plenty of these strains next time you hit your local Salem dispensary.

Breath

One of the sillier names that comes from cannabis, Breath genetics come from Original Kush Breath (OGKB), which is a phenotype of OG Kush. OGKB was crossbred with Mendo Montage, a potent hybrid with a unique lineage. The product is Mendo Breath, which was itself the genetic backbone of many popular modern strains on the market. This is another heavy, sedative, body high inducing strain. The notes are distinct diesel-like, nutty flavor and posses a semi-sweet exhale when smoked. This is where fabulous strains like Peanut Butter Breath, Garlic Breath and Meat Breath came from.

Cookies 

Another recognized strain in the cannabis world, Cookies are everywhere ! Cookies is the shorthand reference to the strain Girl Scout Cookies (GSC), a crossbreed of the famed strains OG Kush and F1 Durban. GSC is known for impactful and euphoric effects paired with a tingly physical high. When GSC was released, it was popularized for its high potency and unique, sweet doughy aroma. It has a rich flavor, like buttery vanilla with hints of mint. This strain has been used a lot in crossbreeds, so it's worth being familiar with. 

    However, many cannabis connoisseurs believe that the integrity of the strain has been lost over time. GSC has been crossed, backcrossed and recrossed into countless different strains. Many modern versions of these strains are inconsistent, have reduced flavor or weakened effects. It was so popularized that it became oversaturated in the market, with poor quality cuts being sold under the same name. Others argue there are so many cuts and phenotypes of the strain, that there is simply no standard. 

    Despite some negative connotations, Girl Scout Cookies is an absolute classic. It's the genetic backbone of some of the most popular strains we see on dispensary shelves today! Gelato, Sunset Sherbert, Wedding Cake and Biscotti are all children of Girl Scout Cookies. If you like a sweet and complex flavor with a balanced, fun and intense buzz, grab some milk and Cookies !

If this all sounds too technical or you just aren’t in the mood to dive deep about your weed, that’s completely fine!  The budtenders at Starbird are well-versed in strain genetics and will happily guide you through our menu to find something tailored to your desired effects. 

On the flip side , there is absolutely no judgement if you’re the type who knows exactly what you like and prefer to get all the details. We love discussing strain genetics, growers, terpene profiles, and everything in between. Plenty of people do their homework before choosing a strain, and taking time and care with your choices isn’t overthinking! It simply means you know what works best for you. 

Whether you are a cannabis connoisseur familiar with breeding and cultivation, or you’re a newcomer feeling overwhelmed with the unfamiliar lingo , we will always prioritize giving you the fulfilling and meaningful experience you need. Cannabis is always evolving and shifting, what we knew years ago as facts could very well turn out to be fiction. That’s why there are no stupid questions here! So feel free to nerd out with us , or ask us to break down any jargon that’s unfamiliar to you. Every cannabis strain has its own story, just like us.

Fly high!