Scientific Family
Cannabaceae
Synonyms
Cannabis indica
Other common names
maryjane
pot
grass
common hemp
Plant type
Forbs and Subshrubs
Origin
Introduced
Lifecycle
Annual
Similar species
Cannabis sativa ssp. indica
Height
3 to 10 feet
Riparian
Yes
A stout, branching annual having a peculiar odor. It is fast-growing and bushy. Native to Asia, but has been cultivated globally since pre-history.
Erect; leaves palmately compound. Only one species in this genus. The other Cannabaceae genus is Humulus which is also herbaceous but a rightward-twining vine-like plant with a simple leaf.
Habitat
Introduced throughout most of north America. Generally prefers open grasslands, disturbed and cultivated fields.
Plant Community
Riparian
Grasslands
Disturbed Areas
Low elevation
0
High elevation
6500
Flower Characteristics
Individual plants have male or female flowers, but not both. Those flowers are borne in leaf axils near the top of each plant. The flowers are often paired and wind pollinated. Flowers are dense and sticky. Bloom times can vary dependent on latitude.
Flower color
Greenish-yellow
Flower shape
Bell-shaped
Tubular
Yes
First bloom month
May
Last bloom month
October
Flower clusters
Rounded
Leaf and Stem Characteristics
Palm shaped leaves are deep green on the upper side and light green below. Stem can be erect or twining. The hollow main stem has 4 ridges lengthwise.
Leaf type
Compound
Leaf color
Green
Leaf shape
Palmate
Leaf margin
Toothed
Leaves clasp
No
Leaf hairs
Stems
Spines
No
Fruit and Seed Characteristics
Fruit is generally enclosed in a persistent perianth, i.e. stays on plant after withering.
Fruit type
Achene
Fruit color
Light brown
The flowers of the female plant can produce hundreds of seeds. Seed is about 1/8 inch long.