How Cannabis Strains Get Their Names: A Beginner’s Guide to Genetics, Crosses & Cultivar Naming

If you’ve ever browsed a cannabis menu at Redi Newton or Redi Natick and wondered how strains get names like Gelato #41, GMO Cookies, or Blue Dream, you’re not alone. For many cannabis consumers—especially first-timers—the wide variety of strain names can feel confusing or overwhelming.

At Redi Cannabis Dispensary, we’re here to help you make sense of it. Whether you’re shopping for sativa, indica, or hybrid flower, this guide will explain how cannabis strains are named, what those names mean, and how genetics play a key role in how your favorite strains are created.

🌱 What Is a Cannabis Strain?

A cannabis strain (also called a cultivar) refers to a specific genetic variety of the cannabis plant. Strains are typically bred for specific traits, such as:

• Flavor and aroma (terpenes)

• THC and CBD content

• Effects (energizing, relaxing, uplifting, etc.)

• Bud structure and yield

Each strain has its own chemical fingerprint—a unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes that influence how it affects your body and mind. That’s why Sour Diesel feels different from Northern Lights, even if both are high in THC.

🧬 How Strains Are Created: A Quick Intro to Cannabis Breeding

Strain names start with the plant’s genetic lineage. Breeders create new strains by crossing two parent plants—much like how tomatoes or apples are selectively bred to produce new varieties.

Here’s how it works:

1. Two cannabis plants with desirable traits are selected.
   For example, a breeder might cross Wedding Cake (known for flavor) with Purple Punch (known for calming effects).

2. One plant pollinates the other, resulting in seeds with a mix of both parents’ genetics.

3. Breeders grow multiple seeds, select the best offspring (called a phenotype), and stabilize the new strain over several generations.

4. Once stabilized, the strain gets a name—sometimes referencing its parents, effects, flavor, or even the breeder’s creativity.

For example:

• Gelato is a cross of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint GSC.

• GMO Cookies (also called Garlic Cookies) comes from Chemdawg × Girl Scout Cookies.

• Runtz is a cross between Zkittlez and Gelato—popular for its fruity flavor and balanced effects.

At Redi, our Newton and Natick menus feature dozens of these carefully bred Massachusetts-grown strains, so you can find the right match for your preferences and needs.

🌸 Why Are Cannabis Strain Names So… Creative?

Cannabis culture has always been rich with creativity, humor, and experimentation—and strain names are no exception. While some names reference genetics or terpene profiles, others reflect:

• Flavor/Aroma: Strawberry Cough, Pineapple Express, Lemon Skunk

• Effect or Mood: Green Crack, Laughing Buddha, Slurricane

• Pop Culture: Obama Runtz, Bruce Banner, Han Solo Burger

• Breeder Identity: Some cultivators use signature naming styles (e.g., “#” numbers, acronyms, or location-based labels)

At Redi, we carry both classic cannabis strains and cutting-edge new hybrids, clearly labeled and described in our Newton menu and Natick menu. If you’re unsure what to try, our team is always available to walk you through the options.

🔍 Sativa vs. Indica vs. Hybrid: What Do Strain Categories Mean?

Strain names are often accompanied by a classification like sativa, indica, or hybrid. These terms refer to general growth patterns and effects, although modern strains are usually hybrids of both.

• Sativa: Tends to feel uplifting, energizing, and cerebral. Often chosen for daytime use.

• Indica: Associated with body relaxation, calm, and sleep. Often used in the evening.

• Hybrid: A balanced blend of both, depending on the dominant traits of the parent plants.

Keep in mind: cannabinoid content and terpene profiles are more accurate predictors of how a strain will affect you than just the label alone. Our staff at Redi Newton and Natick can help decode strain labels and recommend products based on your goals.

🌿 Redi’s Local Menu: Grown in Massachusetts, Curated for You

All cannabis products sold at Redi are grown, processed, and tested right here in Massachusetts. As a small, locally owned dispensary founded in Newton in 2021, we work with some of the state’s top cultivators to bring you a handpicked selection of flower, pre-rolls, vapes, and more.

Every product on our shelves—whether you’re in Newton or Natick—comes with a detailed breakdown of strain name, genetics, THC/CBD percentages, and dominant terpenes, so you can shop confidently.

Explore the current selection now:

• 👉 Redi Newton Menu

• 👉 Redi Natick Menu

🧠 Final Thoughts: Let the Name Spark Your Curiosity

Strain names might seem silly at first—but they’re rooted in genetics, creativity, and careful cultivation. Understanding how cannabis strains are named (and bred) can help you shop smarter and get more consistent results from your cannabis experience.

Still not sure which strain is right for you? Visit us in-store and talk to one of our Redi guides. Whether you’re chasing calm, clarity, or creativity, we’ll help you find a Massachusetts-grown strain that’s just your style.

📍 Visit Redi Newton or Redi Natick Today

Ready to explore new cannabis strains with confidence? Stop by Redi Newton or Redi Natick—your local source for premium cannabis and friendly expertise.

Redi Newton
24 Elliot St, Newton, MA 02461
🕒 Mon–Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM | Sun: 12 AM – 7 PM
👉 Visit Newton

Redi Natick
26 Worcester St, Natick, MA 01760
🕒 Mon–Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM | Sun: 11 AM – 6 PM
👉 Visit Natick