Ultimate Guide to the Anatomy of the Marijuana Plant
November 12, 2020
Although you may be familiar with the marijuana buds that we covet, many people have never seen a marijuana plant, let alone know about its anatomy. The cannabis plant is made up of many different structures and this post is meant to provide a brief introduction to the main parts of this amazing plant.
Flower
Cannabis flowers (a.k.a. buds) are the most well-known part of the cannabis plant. The cannabis plants will either have female or male flowers, and the flowering process is how a grower discerns whether the plant is female or male. A flowering female cannabis plant will develop a cola and grow buds. It will also produce cannabis seeds if it is fertilized by a male marijuana plant. The flowering male plant does not have buds, but develops small pollen sacks at the base of its leaves. Pollinated plants are far less rich in cannabinoids (like THC) so the buds you purchase and enjoy are always unpollinated seedless females.
Fan Leaves
Fan leaves are the large, protruding leaves that appear up and down the plant. Each leaf usually contains five individual leaves, but sometimes have more. Photosynthesis is the main function of these striking leaves, and they don’t produce high levels of cannabinoids like buds do. But even though they aren’t smoked, they are famous for being an iconic symbol of the cannabis plant in marijuana culture.
Cola
The cola refers to the part of the female cannabis plant where the buds come together at the tip of the stem. The quality and size of the cola can be increased during the growing process with plant training, which means physically manipulating the plant so it grows more bud sites, which increases yields. The cola produces the largest, densest buds with the highest potency. When you buy top-shelf flower, you usually get buds from the cola that have been hand-trimmed.
Bract and Calyx
Often hidden under the small leaves on the cola, are tear-shaped nodules that form the bract. The bract encapsules the cannabis female plant reproductive parts and is covered in resin glands that contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids. The calyx is a translucent layer that covers the female plant's ovule enclosed by the bract and is not visible to the naked eye.
Sugar Leaves
Sugar leaves are the small leaves that grow out of the buds. They are often hidden, with only their tips peeking through. They are usually covered in trichomes, which give them the appearance of being dusted with sugar. Because they carry cannabinoid-rich trichomes, they can be used to make concentrates and extracts.
Trichomes
Trichomes are a tiny but essential part of the cannabis flower. These resin glands coat the flower and look like translucent crystal-like globes. Trichomes are rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, which are responsible for the euphoric and therapeutic effects of the plant.
Pistil
Pistils look like tiny hairs that grow out of the sides of the flower. They start out white but turn to red, orange, and brown. Only female cannabis plants have pistils, and they function to capture pollen sacs from male marijuana plants.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
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Buying an ounce of cannabis can seem overwhelming if you’re new to buying and consuming cannabis flower. For experienced cannabis enthusiasts, it’s often the perfect amount to save money and stock up, but is it the right choice for you? In this guide, we’ll break down what an ounce of marijuana looks like, its cost, and what you can do with it—all while helping you become a savvy licensed dispensary shopper.
What is an Ounce of Flower?
An ounce of flower—also called an O, lid, or zip—is a common measurement for cannabis, equaling 28 grams of cured flower. Cannabis is measured using the metric system, making grams the standard unit for weight. An ounce usually consists of 10 whole cannabis buds, depending on the size of the individual flower buds.1 Many states limit your marijuana possession to around an ounce, so it’s important to understand what an ounce of cannabis looks like.2 Be sure to check your local laws to stay compliant.
It’s also important to note that an ounce is a substantial amount of cannabis flower, making it an excellent option for frequent consumers. However, it may not be the best choice for new or occasional cannabis consumers who prefer smaller quantities.
What Does an Ounce of Marijuana Look Like?
The term “zip” comes from the idea that an ounce of cannabis can fit into a sandwich-sized zip-top or Ziploc bag. However, the appearance of an ounce varies based on the strain. Dense cannabis buds will look smaller compared to fluffier, more lightweight strains.3 The drying or curing process also plays a role, as water content impacts the final weight.
How Much Does an Ounce of Flower Cost?
The cost of marijuana can fluctuate based on factors such as location and product quality. On average, an ounce of cannabis can range from just under $200 to as much as $500, depending on several factors, such as:
- State laws and regulations
- Taxes and fees
- The quality of cannabis flower
While an ounce may be priced at $200, remember to account for taxes, which can significantly impact the final cost.
While it may seem expensive, it is typically more cost-effective to purchase an ounce of marijuana if you’re a regular consumer and you store flower properly. If you’re a semi-regular or special occasion consumer? An ounce is likely more marijuana than you would need, and your product might get stale before you can enjoy it.
What Can You Do with a Ounce of Flower?
With an ounce of cannabis flower, the possibilities are seemingly endless. You can roll multiple joints or blunts, pack dozens of one-hitters, or make edibles like cannabutter or infused oils. It’s the perfect amount for experimenting with different consumption methods or stocking up for regular use.4
Roll 28 Joints
With one gram of cannabis per joint, you can roll about 28 joints from an ounce. If a joint is too much, you can save it for later, which will make your ounce of marijuana last even longer.
Pack 120 One-Hitters
A one-hitter uses about 0.25 grams of cannabis, so you can pack roughly 120 average-sized one-hitters with an ounce.
Roll 20 Blunts
A blunt, which is bigger and fatter than joints and uses cigar or hemp leaf wraps, typically requires 1.5 grams of flower, allowing you to roll 20 blunts with an ounce.5
How Long Will an Ounce Last?
The longevity of an ounce largely depends on your consumption habits. For casual cannabis enthusiasts, an ounce can last up to six weeks, while more frequent consumers might go through it in a shorter period (about a month). If you’re a super casual consumer, your ounce might last a couple of months.
How Does an Ounce Compare to Other Marijuana Measurements?
An ounce might seem like a lot, but cannabis is also sold in smaller quantities. Understanding these measurements can help you decide how much to purchase based on your consumption needs.
How Many Grams Are in an Ounce of Marijuana?
An ounce contains 28 grams of cannabis flower if you’re used to the metric system. This makes it easy to break down into smaller amounts or use for multiple purposes.6
How Many Eighths Are in an Ounce of Marijuana?
An eighth of cannabis refers to one-eighth of an ounce, equaling 3.5 grams of flower. That means there are eight-eighths in an ounce.7 If you want to buy smaller quantities of cannabis, buy an eighth.
How Many Quarters in an Ounce of Marijuana?
A quarter of cannabis represents one-fourth of an ounce, which is 7 grams. You’ll find four quarters in a single ounce. This is a popular choice for mid-sized purchases.
FAQs About an Ounce of Cannabis
Buying an ounce of cannabis can raise a lot of questions like “What is an ounce?” and “How much is an ounce of cannabis?” We have answers to the most frequently asked questions below, but you can always ask your favorite LivWell budtender if you want to know more about cannabis measurements and become a smart dispensary shopper.
What is the price for an ounce of cannabis?
Prices vary but typically range from $150 to $300 (or more), depending on location, taxes, and flower quality.
Does buying an ounce of flower mean it’s higher quality?
The quantity of cannabis purchased doesn’t determine its quality. It depends on the strain, cultivation process, and curing.
How much is a dub of flower?
A dub refers to $20 worth of cannabis, which is far less than an ounce.
Can I legally possess an ounce of flower?
That depends on the state you’re in. Some states allow possession of an ounce or more, while others have stricter limits. Always check your local laws.8
Is it worth it to buy an ounce of flower?
If you’re a regular cannabis enthusiast, buying an ounce can save you money in the long run. For new or occasional consumers, smaller quantities might be more practical.
Is an ounce the same as a zip of marijuana?
The term "zip" comes from the fact that an ounce of cannabis fits into a zip-top or Ziploc sandwich bag.
Buying an Ounce of Flower
Buying an ounce of cannabis is a smart way to save money and stock up, especially for frequent consumers. If you’re new to cannabis, start with smaller amounts to find what works best. From rolling joints to making edibles, an ounce offers a multitude of possibilities—check your state laws, visit your dispensary, and enjoy experimenting responsibly.
Sources:
1. “Weed Measurements Guide: Quantities, Weights, Prices,” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/weed-measurements
2. “Legalization,” NORML, https://norml.org/laws/legalization/
3. “Ounce,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/ounce
4. “A visual guide to the most common measurements of weed,” Business Insider, May 13, 2022, https://www.insider.com/guides/home/weed-measurements
5. “The complete guide to weed measurements and prices,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/weed-measurements
6. “Quarter,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/quarter
7. “How much is an eighth of weed?” MIC, November 10, 2020, https://www.mic.com/articles/165720/how-much-is-an-eighth-of-weed-price-weight-photos-size-slang-and-more
8. “State Laws,” NORML, https://norml.org/laws/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Looking for a simple, portable way to enjoy cannabis flower? Meet the one-hitter pipe—a compact, discreet, and easy-to-use tool that’s perfect if you’re new to cannabis, prefer to microdose, or want to keep things low-key. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about one-hitter cannabis pipes, including what are one-hitters and how to use a one-hitter.
What Is a One Hitter?
A one-hitter pipe (sometimes called a chillum, bat, or taster) is a small, portable pipe designed for smoking flower in single hits. As the name suggests, these pipes are packed with just enough cannabis for a quick session.1
Unlike a regular hand pipe, a one-hitter doesn’t have a carburetor hole (carb), which makes it ideal for a discreet microdose or trying out THC without overdoing it. However, the smoke doesn’t cool much before reaching your mouth, so it can feel harsher than using a bong or bubbler.2
One-hitters come in various shapes and materials, but all are compact, making them easy to carry and use on the go.
What are the Different Types of One Hitters?
One-hitters come in several variations, each catering to different preferences and styles. Here are the most common types:
Bat
The bat, the most common type of one-hitter, is shaped like a miniature baseball bat. It’s a simple cylindrical pipe with two open ends: one for packing cannabis flower and the other for inhaling.
Chillums
Chillums are one of the oldest devices for smoking cannabis. Originally made from clay, modern chillums are often made from glass or ceramic. They’re slightly larger than standard one-hitters but smaller than regular pipes, offering a bit more capacity. These one-piece handheld pipes have a bowl, tunnel, and mouthpiece. In the olden days, they also had a chillum stone or stopper to prevent you from directly inhaling flower or hashish.3
Steamroller
A steamroller is like a one-hitter but includes a carburetor hole at the end for airflow control, allowing for bigger, more potent hits. As such, steamroller pipes are not ideal for newbies who should start with a low dose to first see how cannabis affects them. While the hit can be harsh, the steamroller’s small bowl makes them great for a few quick puffs instead of just one.4
These pipes can be made from clay, glass, wood, and plastic, similar to a bubbler. You can buy novelty steamrollers that resemble everyday items to add to your collection.
What Is a Dugout?
A dugout isn’t a pipe. It is a compact carrying case for your one-hitter and cannabis flower.5 It often includes a separate chamber for ground flower and may have compartments for a lighter or other tools like a metal poker. Essentially, it’s a convenient, all-in-one solution for on-the-go cannabis smoking sessions. Dugouts are great for portability but require pre-ground cannabis.6
How Do You Use a One-Hitter Pipe?
Using a one-hitter is straightforward and quite similar to using a regular pipe. But before you light up and take a hit, you’ll need a few essentials:
- Your favorite strain of cannabis flower
- A grinder
- A butane lighter
- A one-hit pipe
Once you have your supplies ready, follow these simple steps to smoke flower from a one-hitter cannabis pipe:7
Step 1: Lightly Grind Flower
Start by lightly grinding your cannabis to a consistency so you can pack it firmly while still allowing airflow. A fine grind ensures even burning and helps you get the most out of your flower, but don’t grind it too finely, or it could fall through the pipe.
Step 2: Pack the End
Pinch a small amount of flower and gently pack it into the open end of the one-hitter. Make sure the flower is snug but not overly tight—you need proper airflow to get smooth, consistent hits.
Step 3: Light & Inhale
Hold the one-hitter at an angle (upward so the cannabis doesn’t fall out), bring the flame from your butane lighter to the packed end, and inhale slowly through the mouthpiece. Rotate the pipe slightly as you light it to ensure the flower burns evenly, giving you a clean and satisfying hit.
How to Clean a One-Hitter Pipe
To keep your one-hitter clean and functional, you’ll need to gather a few cleaning supplies:
- A resealable plastic bag like a Ziploc bag
- At least 70% isopropyl alcohol (90% is much better!)
- Coarse salt
- A pipe cleaner
Now, follow these steps to clean your one-hitter pipe:
1. Place the pipe in a resealable plastic bag.
2. Add a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and salt to the bag.
3. Swish the pipe around to loosen resin chunks. The salt will help break up the resin chunks. Repeat this step as many times as needed to clean your one-hitter.
4. Use a pipe cleaner for stubborn spots.
5. Then rinse the pipe and let it air dry.
Answering FAQs About One Hitters
One-hitters are simple to use, but you might still have a few questions—like what makes them so great or how to get the most out of them. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most common questions about these handy little pipes. You can always visit your local LivWell dispensary to chat with a budtender for personalized advice:
Can you reuse a one-hitter pipe?
Yes, you can reuse your one-hitters—as long as you clean them regularly.
Why is it called a one hitter?
A one-hitter cannabis pipe is called a one-hitter because it’s typically packed with just enough flower for a single hit, though you may get a few more hits depending on the size of the device.
Do you need a grinder for a one hitter?
Yes, you need to use a grinder for a one-hitter pipe. Grinding the flower ensures even burning, better airflow, and a more enjoyable smoking experience!
Buying & Using One-Hitter Pipes
A one-hitter pipe is a great tool for discreet and portable cannabis consumption. Whether you’re a newbie or just want a quick microdosing option, these pipes are easy to use and maintain. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore the best options, and chat with a budtender to find the perfect fit.
Sources:
1. “Pipe,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/pipe
2. “The Best One-Hitters for Getting High on the Low,” GQ, April 9, 2024, https://www.gq.com/story/best-one-hitters
3. “Chullims explained: How to use a chillum,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/what-is-a-chillum
4. “What is a steamroller pipe?” CannaConnection, August 14, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/19149-what-is-a-steamroller-pipe
5. “11 Best Dugout Pipes in the World Right Now!” Weed Republic, December 27, 2020, https://weedrepublic.com/blogs/reviews/11-best-dugout-pipes-in-the-world-right-now
6. “Dugout,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/dugout
7. “What is a one-hitter cannabis pipe?” Leafly, August 23, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/smoke/one-hitter-pipes
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
If you want to take your cannabis experience to the next level, moon rocks might be what you’re looking for. These ultra-potent nuggets of cannabis are known for their intense effects, making them popular among cannabis connoisseurs.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moon rocks—from what they are to how to smoke them—and even how to make them at home.
What are Moon Rocks?
Moon rocks are essentially cannabis flower that have been dipped in hash oil (a type of marijuana concentrate) and then rolled in kief. This process creates a super-concentrated nugget containing as much as 50% THC per 1 gram of moon rock.1
Traditionally, the GSC strain (Girl Scout Cookies) was used to make moon rocks because of its potency and flavor, but any strain of cannabis can be used to create a “moon rock strain” that suits your taste and desired effects. The result is a flavorful, powerful product that’s not suitable for cannabis beginners—so make sure you’re prepared for an intense high. You can also find infused pre-rolls designed to deliver a moon rock-like experience. These pre-rolls are packed with cannabis concentrate and dusted with kief, offering the intense effects of moon rocks minus the mess and hassle of preparation.
Because of the multiple layers of cannabis concentrates involved, moon rocks tend to be more expensive at a dispensary. However, you can make your own at home with the right ingredients and tools.2
How to Smoke Moon Rocks
Smoking moon rocks is an experience, but it can also be a little tricky. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your moon rock session3:
1. Break up the moon rock: Moon rocks are sticky, so wear gloves and use scissors or a knife to break them into smaller pieces. Don’t use a grinder, as it will just get clogged.
2. Use glassware: Smoking moon rocks through a glass pipe or bong is the easiest and cleanest method. Rolling them into a joint will be messy, and they don’t stay lit as easily.
3. Layer with flower: Place a small amount of flower at the bottom of your bowl or pipe, and then add the moon rock on top. This will help with airflow and make the hit smoother.
4. Use a hemp wick: Moon rocks can be difficult to keep lit, so using a hemp wick rather than a traditional lighter might help prolong the burn and give you a better hit.
How to Make Moon Rocks
You can make moon rocks at home if you don’t want to spend the extra cash at your local dispensary. Here’s how:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools & Ingredients
To make moon rocks, you’ll need three main ingredients:
- Cannabis flower: Choose an entire nug, avoiding smaller pieces like popcorn buds or shake.
- Sticky concentrate: Use a sticky cannabis concentrate like hash oil or butane hash oil.
- Kief: This is the powdery substance collected from grinding cannabis, or you can buy it from a dispensary. You can also use powdered hash.
Step 2: Add Concentrate
Using a dropper, carefully coat your cannabis nug with hash oil or another sticky concentrate. You can add multiple layers of concentrate, but make sure to let each coat dry before applying the next one to avoid making a mess.
Step 3: Roll in Kief
Once your nug is coated in concentrate, use tongs to roll it in kief, ensuring the entire bud is covered. This is what gives moon rocks their signature look and potency.
Step 4: Dry
Let your moon rock dry in a cool, dark spot. This step ensures that the concentrate and kief properly adhere to the flower, making it easier to handle and smoke.
Step 5: Store
If you’re not planning to smoke your moon rock immediately, store it in an airtight container in a dark, cool place to preserve its potency and flavor.
FAQs About Moon Rocks
If you’re new to moon rocks or just curious about how they work, you’re not alone. Many cannabis enthusiasts have questions about this potent creation, from what exactly goes into a moon rock to the best way to smoke it. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions, but if you’re still wondering about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your local LivWell budtender for more advice!
What is in moon rocks?
Moon rocks are made of cannabis flower, concentrate, and kief. The combination of these three components creates a potent nugget that can contain up to 50% THC.
Are moon rocks the same as caviar?
Moon rocks and caviar are different. Caviar is cannabis flower dipped in concentrate, while moon rocks are dipped in concentrate and rolled in kief, making them even more potent.
Can I use moon rocks in cannabutter?
It’s not recommended to use moon rocks in cannabis butter. Moon rocks are sticky and coated in marijuana concentrates, which makes them difficult to work with if you want to make cannabutter. Stick with flower or concentrates for a smoother cooking process and to avoid a huge mess.
How strong are moon rocks?
Moon rocks are extremely strong, with THC levels reaching up to 50%. This makes them a good option for cannabis enthusiasts but potentially overwhelming for beginners.
How can I keep my moon rocks lit?
Use a hemp wick instead of a lighter. Moon rocks are hard to keep lit because of the sticky concentrate, and a hemp wick can help with a steady burn.
Can I eat moon rocks?
It’s not recommended to eat moon rocks. The THC in moon rocks hasn’t gone through decarboxylation, which is necessary for cannabis to produce psychoactive effects when consumed. So while you can eat moon rocks, it won’t cause any intoxicating effects.
Can I roll moon rocks into a joint?
Moon rocks are too sticky and dense to be rolled into a joint. For the best experience, use them in a bong or pipe.
Purchasing Marijuana Moon Rocks
If you’re interested in trying moon rocks but don’t want to make them yourself, you can buy them at most licensed dispensaries. Keep in mind that moon rocks can be pricey because of their potency, but they’re worth it if you’re looking for a powerful cannabis experience. Stop by a LivWell dispensary and chat with a budtender to find the best moon rocks for your next session.
Sources:
1. “What are moon rocks and how do you smoke them?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/smoke/moon-rocks
2. “What are marijuana moon rocks?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/marijuana-moon-rocks
3. “What are moon rocks?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/moon-rocks
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
