Plant genus belonging to the family Cannabaceae of
the nettle order (Urticales). The genus comprises one species, hemp (q.v.; C.
sativa), a stout, aromatic, erect annual herb that originated in Central Asia
and is now cultivated widely in the North Temperate Zone. A tall, canelike
variety is raised for the production of hemp fibre, while the female plant of a
short, branchier variety is prized as the more abundant source of
marijuana.
