The Complete Guide to Cannabis Strains in Ontario
Last updated: January 2026 | Written by the team at Ashario Cannabis. Ontario's premium cannabis dispensary serving North York, Aurora, and Thornton.
Whether you are exploring cannabis for the first time or you are an experienced consumer looking to deepen your understanding, this guide is designed to be the most thorough, accurate, and practical cannabis strains guide available to Ontario shoppers. Inside, you will find clear definitions, side-by-side comparisons, terpene breakdowns, THC and CBD explanations, and curated links to specific strain reviews and product guides drawn from Ashario Cannabis's expert editorial team.
What Is a Cannabis Strain?
A cannabis strain is a distinct variety of the Cannabis plant, selectively cultivated to express specific combinations of chemical compounds, physical characteristics, aromas, flavours, and effects. As of 2026, the licensed Canadian cannabis market features hundreds of registered strains sourced from both domestic craft producers and large-scale licensed producers, all of which must meet Health Canada's regulatory standards before reaching retail shelves.
Strains are most simply understood as named varieties: similar to how different apple cultivars like Honeycrisp and Gala share the same species but offer distinctly different eating experiences. In cannabis, the experience is shaped primarily by the plant's cannabinoid profile (dominated by THC and CBD) and its terpene composition (the aromatic compounds that give each strain its unique scent and flavour).
The term "strain" is technically a designation borrowed from microbiology, and some cannabis scientists now prefer the term "cultivar" or "chemotype." However, "strain" remains the most widely understood and used term among Ontario consumers, retailers, and licensed producers alike, and is the term you will encounter on product packaging at stores like Ashario Cannabis.
Strain names can be descriptive (referencing aroma, colour, or lineage) or creative (referencing cultural references, breeders, or place of origin). Names like OG Kush, Blue Dream, and Pink Kush have become near-universal reference points, while newer craft strains like Tiger Blood and Space Age Cake represent the continued creative evolution of cannabis breeding in Canada.
Key characteristics used to classify and distinguish cannabis strains include:
- Total THC percentage (potency)
- Total CBD percentage
- Dominant terpenes and their concentrations
- Genetic lineage (parent strains)
- Growth structure and cultivation method
- Reported effects and sensory profile
- Harvest and cure method (affecting final product quality)
Understanding what a strain actually is forms the foundation of every other concept in this guide. From here, you can build a working vocabulary that will help you shop confidently at any Ashario Cannabis location across Ontario.
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid: Understanding the Three Main Categories
The most common framework consumers encounter when shopping for cannabis strains is the three-category system: indica, sativa, and hybrid. These categories appear on virtually every product in Ontario's legal market and serve as a shorthand for expected effects and use cases.
It is important to note that modern cannabis science has significantly complicated the traditional indica/sativa classification. Many botanists and researchers now argue that nearly all commercially cultivated cannabis is genetically a hybrid to some degree, and that the physical distinctions originally used to separate Cannabis indica from Cannabis sativa (plant height, leaf shape, growing environment) do not reliably predict the effects a consumer will experience. Nonetheless, these categories remain a practical starting point.
Indica Strains
Indica strains are traditionally described as producing a heavier, more physically relaxing experience. The phrase "in-da-couch" is a popular memory device used by cannabis consumers. Indica plants were originally cultivated in mountainous regions of Central and South Asia (including Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India) and tend to grow shorter and bushier with broader leaves and denser flower clusters. In Ontario's legal market, indica-leaning strains are popular evening choices and are often associated with terpenes like myrcene and linalool.
Sativa Strains
Sativa strains are traditionally described as producing more energizing, cerebral, and uplifting experiences. Sativa plants originate from equatorial regions (including Central America, Southeast Asia, and equatorial Africa) and tend to grow taller with narrower leaves and longer flowering cycles. In Ontario dispensaries, sativa-leaning products are popular daytime choices and often feature terpenes like limonene and pinene prominently in their profiles.
Hybrid Strains
Hybrid strains represent the cross-breeding of indica and sativa genetics, and they make up the majority of the modern licensed cannabis market in Canada. Hybrids are often categorized as indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced, and they offer a wide spectrum of effects that breeders have deliberately cultivated for specific flavour profiles, terpene expressions, and consumer experiences.
At Ashario Cannabis, the product selection across all four Ontario locations includes indica, sativa, and hybrid flower options in a range of potencies and price points, curated to reflect both consumer demand and product quality standards as of 2026.
THC and CBD Explained: What the Numbers Actually Mean
Walk into any Ontario cannabis dispensary and the two numbers you will see most prominently on packaging are THC and CBD. These percentages represent the two most abundant and most studied cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Understanding what they mean, and what they do not mean, is essential for making informed purchasing decisions.
What Is THC?
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is the molecule responsible for the intoxicating effect commonly associated with cannabis use. In Ontario's regulated market, THC content is expressed as a percentage of the total product weight for dried flower, or as milligrams per unit for edibles and capsules. As of 2026, Health Canada requires all cannabis products to display both THC and CBD content on packaging.
For dried flower, the average THC range in Ontario's legal market runs from approximately 10% on the lower end to over 30% for ultra-high-potency craft products. Higher THC percentages indicate greater psychoactive intensity, which is a factor to consider carefully, especially for new consumers.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the second most well-known cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive intoxication. It is present in varying concentrations across different strains and products. Some strains are specifically bred to be CBD-dominant (containing more CBD than THC), while many recreational strains contain only trace amounts of CBD (under 1%).
The Ratio Concept
Many experienced consumers and budtenders discuss cannabis in terms of THC:CBD ratios, which can help predict the overall character of the experience. Common ratios include:
- High THC / Low CBD (e.g., 25% THC / 0.1% CBD): Typical of most recreational flower; primarily psychoactive
- Balanced THC/CBD (e.g., 10% THC / 10% CBD): Often described as a more moderate experience
- High CBD / Low THC (e.g., 1% THC / 15% CBD): Minimal psychoactive effect; popular among new or sensitive consumers
- CBD-dominant (e.g., 0.3% THC / 20% CBD): Non-intoxicating; the basis of many CBD-focused products
For consumers exploring cannabis formats beyond flower, our in-depth editorial on THC capsules in Ontario provides an excellent breakdown of how cannabinoid dosing works in oral formats: a meaningfully different experience from inhaled cannabis.
THC percentage alone should never be the sole deciding factor when choosing a strain. Terpene profile, format, consumption method, and personal tolerance all contribute to the final experience. Ashario's in-store team across all four Ontario locations is trained to walk consumers through these variables in a clear, non-judgmental way.
Terpenes: The Hidden Drivers of Cannabis Effects and Flavour
Terpenes are aromatic organic compounds produced by a wide variety of plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive scents of lavender, pine, citrus, and pepper, and they play a critical role in defining the unique sensory and experiential profile of each cannabis strain. As of 2026, terpene data is increasingly available on cannabis product packaging and online menus in Ontario, giving consumers more tools than ever to choose strains that match their preferences.
In cannabis, terpenes are produced alongside cannabinoids in the trichomes: the tiny, crystal-like structures visible on cured flower. A single strain may contain over 100 different terpenes, but typically a handful of primary terpenes dominate and define its character.
The Most Common Cannabis Terpenes in Ontario's Market
- Myrcene: The most abundant terpene in cannabis. Earthy, musky, and slightly herbal. Associated with a relaxing, sedative-leaning effect. Found prominently in many indica and indica-dominant strains.
- Limonene: Citrus-forward, bright, and uplifting. Common in sativa-dominant strains and associated with elevated mood and energy.
- Caryophyllene: Spicy, peppery, and woody. Unique among terpenes for its ability to interact directly with the body's endocannabinoid system. Found in strains like OG Kush and GSC.
- Linalool: Floral and lavender-like. Associated with calming effects. Also found in lavender and birch trees.
- Pinene: Sharp pine aroma. Associated with mental clarity and alertness. Common in many sativa-leaning strains.
- Humulene: Earthy and hoppy (also found in hops). Associated with appetite-suppressing properties.
- Ocimene: Sweet, herbal, and woody. Common in tropical strains and contributes to uplifting profiles.
- Terpinolene: Floral, piney, and slightly herbal. Often found in strains like Jack Herer and Dutch Treat.
The interaction between terpenes and cannabinoids is sometimes referred to as the "entourage effect": the idea that the full chemical profile of a strain, rather than any single compound in isolation, produces the nuanced effects that consumers experience. This concept is widely referenced in the cannabis community, though ongoing scientific research continues to refine our understanding of the mechanisms involved.
When reviewing specific strain profiles, terpene data is one of the most useful signals available. Our detailed editorial on the Space Age Cake strain offers a useful example of how terpene profiling translates directly into the real-world flavour and effect experience of a specific product available at Ashario Cannabis.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain for You
With hundreds of strains available across Ontario's licensed cannabis market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially for new or returning consumers. The most effective approach combines a clear understanding of your personal goals, an honest assessment of your experience level, and a willingness to engage with the budtenders and product information available to you.
Below is a practical framework for choosing a cannabis strain at any Ashario Cannabis location.
Step 1: Define Your Intended Experience
Before looking at any specific product, consider what you are hoping to get out of the experience. Common consumer goals include relaxation after work, social and creative engagement, sleep support, exploring flavour, or simply trying cannabis for the first time. Different goals map naturally to different strain categories, cannabinoid ratios, and consumption formats.
Step 2: Consider Your THC Tolerance
If you are new to cannabis or returning after a break, starting with lower THC products (under 15%) is widely recommended. If you have established experience, you may be comfortable exploring mid-range (15 to 24%) or high-potency (25%+) options. There is no universal "correct" THC level. It is about finding what works for your individual biology and preferences.
Step 3: Use Terpene Profile as a Flavour and Effect Guide
Once you have a THC range in mind, use the dominant terpenes to refine your choice based on aroma and expected effect character. If you love citrus and prefer more energizing experiences, look for high-limonene strains. If you prefer earthy, heavy profiles, myrcene-dominant strains are a natural fit.
Step 4: Choose the Right Format
Strains are available in multiple formats in Ontario's legal market: dried flower, pre-rolls, vapes, concentrates, edibles, and capsules. Each format has a different onset time, duration, and intensity profile. Inhaled formats (flower, vapes) act quickly, while ingested formats (edibles, capsules) take longer to take effect but produce longer-lasting results.
Step 5: Ask Your Budtender
The most underutilized resource available to Ontario cannabis consumers is the in-store budtender. At all Ashario Cannabis locations, including our Finch & Dufferin store at 1111A Finch Ave W in North York, our Centerpoint Mall location at 6464 Yonge St, our Aurora store at 15114 Yonge St, and our Thornton location at 239 Barrie St. Our staff are trained to ask the right questions and match you with products that fit your needs and experience level. You can also contact Ashario Cannabis before visiting for guidance.
- Share your experience level openly
- Describe the type of experience you are looking for
- Ask about terpene profiles on specific products
- Ask about newer vs. classic strains
- Request information about current promotions or featured products
Popular Cannabis Strain Profiles Available in Ontario
The Ontario cannabis market as of 2026 features a rich variety of strain options, from longstanding classics to innovative new craft cultivars. Below is an overview of some of the most notable strain categories and specific profiles available through Ashario Cannabis and the broader Ontario regulated market.
Classic Strains
These are strains that have been widely available since early legalization and remain popular due to consistent quality and consumer familiarity:
- OG Kush: A legendary hybrid with earthy, pine, and fuel-like aromas. Dominant terpenes include myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. Often THC-forward and popular for evening use.
- Blue Dream: A sativa-dominant hybrid with berry and herbal notes. Known for balanced, gentle effects that are approachable for many consumers. Dominant terpene: myrcene and pinene.
- Pink Kush: An indica-dominant Canadian favourite with sweet floral and vanilla notes. Very high THC potential. Dominant terpenes: myrcene, ocimene, caryophyllene.
- White Widow: A classic balanced hybrid with earthy and woody aromas. A staple in Ontario's licensed market since early legalization.
- Sour Diesel: A sativa-dominant strain with a sharp, fuel-like aroma and energizing profile. Terpene-forward, often featuring limonene and caryophyllene prominently.
Craft and Emerging Strains in Ontario
Ontario's craft cannabis sector has grown significantly since 2022, bringing new genetics, artisanal growing practices, and distinctive strain profiles to the legal market. Two strains that exemplify the quality and character of this category are Tiger Blood and Space Age Cake.
For a deep dive into one of the most talked-about craft strains currently available in Ontario's legal market, read our full editorial on the Tiger Blood strain, including its effects, terpenes, THC content, and where to buy it in Ontario. Tiger Blood is a striking example of how modern Canadian breeders are pushing the boundaries of flavour and potency.
Similarly, the Space Age Cake strain review on Ashario's blog provides a detailed look at how a dessert-style hybrid delivers on both aroma and effect: along with current availability information at Ashario Cannabis stores.
CBD-Dominant and Balanced Strains
Not all consumers are looking for high-THC experiences. CBD-forward and balanced THC/CBD strains have grown in popularity in Ontario since 2020. These strains offer a gentler entry point for new consumers and remain a popular option for those who want to experience cannabis without significant intoxication. Varieties like Cannatonic, AC/DC, and Harlequin are examples of CBD-rich strains commonly available through Ontario's regulated market.
Explore the full range of strain options currently available at Ashario by browsing our cannabis product categories online or visiting any of our four Ontario locations.
Cannabis Flower Formats: Dried Flower, Pre-Rolls, and Beyond
Dried cannabis flower remains the most traditional and widely consumed format in Ontario's regulated market, but the way consumers purchase and consume flower has evolved significantly since legalization. As of 2026, there are several distinct formats for cannabis flower and flower-derived products available at Ontario dispensaries.
Dried Flower (Whole Bud)
Dried cannabis flower is the cured, harvested bud of the cannabis plant. It is sold in sealed packages ranging from 1 gram to 28 grams (one ounce) in Ontario. Consumers who purchase dried flower typically use it in hand pipes, bongs, or rolled in paper or hemp wraps. Quality indicators for dried flower include moisture content, terpene aroma intensity, trichome coverage, and visual appearance.
When purchasing dried flower, look for:
- Harvest date (fresher is generally more aromatic)
- Dominant terpenes listed on the label
- Total THC and CBD percentages
- Producer and cultivar name
- Storage information (keep sealed and away from direct light and heat)
Pre-Rolls
Pre-rolled joints are among the most convenient cannabis flower formats. They are available as singles, multi-packs, infused options (with added kief, concentrate, or hash), and in a variety of sizes. Pre-rolls have become increasingly sophisticated in Ontario's market, with many craft producers now offering infused or multi-strain pre-rolls that deliver a curated experience in a ready-to-use format.
Milled and Shake Flower
Some products are sold in pre-milled formats, where the flower has been ground or broken down prior to packaging. These tend to be more affordable per gram and are popular for consumers who roll their own joints or use vaporizers. Shake products consist of the smaller leaf and flower fragments that accumulate during the processing of whole bud.
Hash and Solventless Concentrates
While technically a step beyond traditional dried flower, hash and solventless concentrates like bubble hash and rosin are derived directly from the cannabis flower with no chemical solvents involved. These products concentrate the terpene and cannabinoid content of the plant and are increasingly available in Ontario's regulated market, including at Ashario Cannabis.
Cannabis Beyond Flower: Edibles, Capsules, and Concentrates
Ontario consumers in 2026 have access to a far broader range of cannabis product formats than existed at the time of legalization in 2018. Each format delivers cannabinoids to the body differently, producing distinct onset times, duration profiles, and intensity patterns. Understanding these differences is essential for safe, informed consumption.
Cannabis Edibles
Edibles are food and beverage products infused with cannabis extract. In Canada, edibles are regulated to a maximum of 10mg THC per package under the Cannabis Act. However, consumers sometimes encounter products from other jurisdictions with much higher potency levels, and understanding dosing in this context is critical. Our comprehensive guide on 100mg THC edibles, including whether they are too much and how to approach dosing for both beginners and experienced consumers, provides an essential reference for anyone navigating higher-potency edible products.
Key points about cannabis edibles for Ontario consumers:
- Onset time is typically 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption
- Effects can last significantly longer than inhaled cannabis (4 to 8 hours or more)
- Dosing should always begin low (2.5 to 5mg for new consumers)
- Canadian legal edibles are capped at 10mg THC per package
- Effects vary based on individual metabolism, body weight, and prior cannabis use
Cannabis Capsules
THC and CBD capsules offer a consistent, discrete, and measured format for cannabis consumption. They function similarly to edibles in terms of onset and duration, but deliver a precisely measured dose of cannabinoids in a pill format. For Ontario consumers considering capsules, our detailed guide on THC capsules in Ontario: everything you need to know before buying covers product types, dosing guidance, what to look for on labels, and how capsules compare to other consumption formats.
Cannabis Concentrates and Vapes
Concentrates include a wide range of products such as shatter, wax, live resin, distillate, and CO2 oil. Vape cartridges and all-in-one disposable vape pens are the most consumer-accessible concentrate format available at Ontario dispensaries. Concentrates are significantly more potent than dried flower on a per-gram basis and are recommended for experienced cannabis consumers.
Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis-infused topicals (including creams, balms, and lotions) are applied directly to the skin. They are non-intoxicating in most formulations and are not typically associated with psychoactive effects, as cannabinoids applied topically do not readily enter the bloodstream in meaningful quantities.
Visit the Ashario Cannabis blog for ongoing editorial coverage of all major cannabis product categories available in Ontario.
Reading a Cannabis Label in Ontario: A Practical Walkthrough
Every cannabis product sold in Ontario's regulated market must meet Health Canada's labelling requirements under the Cannabis Act and its associated regulations. Understanding how to read a cannabis label empowers you to make informed decisions at any dispensary, including Ashario Cannabis.
Required Label Elements on Ontario Cannabis Products
- Standardized cannabis symbol: The yellow and black exclamation mark symbol indicating the product contains THC
- Total THC and total CBD: Expressed as a percentage (for dried flower) or in milligrams (for edibles and capsules)
- Net weight or volume
- Licensed producer name and contact information
- Lot or batch number
- Packaged on date
- Best before date (where applicable)
- Storage instructions
- Health warning messages (rotating standardized warnings)
Understanding THC as Listed on Dried Flower Labels
For dried flower specifically, labels show two THC values: the THCA percentage (the inactive precursor found in raw flower) and the Total THC percentage (which accounts for the conversion of THCA to THC during heating, also known as decarboxylation). The Total THC number is the more relevant figure for consumers, as it represents the psychoactive potential of the product when consumed through heating (smoking or vaporizing).
Optional Label Information to Look For
While not mandated by Health Canada, many licensed producers include additional helpful information on their packaging:
- Dominant terpenes and their approximate percentages
- Strain lineage and genetic background
- Cultivation method (indoor, greenhouse, outdoor, light-assisted)
- Flavour and aroma notes
- Producer's suggested consumption pairing or occasion
When in doubt about any label information, the team at any Ashario Cannabis location can help interpret the data and contextualize it relative to other products in store.
Buying Cannabis Strains in Ontario: What to Know
As of 2026, Ontario has one of the largest and most diverse licensed cannabis retail markets in Canada. With thousands of private retail license holders operating across the province, consumers have more legal access points than ever before.
Age and Purchase Regulations
In Ontario, the legal age for cannabis purchase and possession is 19. Valid government-issued photo identification is required at the point of purchase at every licensed dispensary, including Ashario Cannabis. Accepted forms of ID include an Ontario driver's licence, Canadian passport, or Ontario Photo Card.
Legal Possession Limits
Under the Cannabis Act, adults in Canada may legally possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis (or the equivalent in other formats) in public. Equivalent amounts for other formats are standardized by Health Canada, for example, 1 gram of dried cannabis is equivalent to 5 grams of fresh cannabis, 15 grams of edibles, or 70 grams of cannabis liquid product.
Home Cultivation
Ontario residents are permitted to cultivate up to four cannabis plants per household for personal use, provided the seeds or seedlings are obtained from a licensed producer. Home cultivation regulations are set at the federal level and enforced provincially.
Where to Buy Legally in Ontario
Licensed private cannabis retail stores, like Ashario Cannabis, are the primary point of sale for cannabis products in Ontario's physical retail market. Purchasing cannabis from unlicensed sources carries legal risk and does not guarantee product safety, quality, or accurate labelling. Ontario's legal market requires all products to undergo testing for potency, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contamination before reaching shelves.
Learn more about the values and standards that guide product selection at Ashario Cannabis.
Finding Cannabis Strains at Ashario Cannabis
Ashario Cannabis operates four licensed retail cannabis dispensaries across Ontario as of 2026, each offering a curated product selection, knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming shopping environment designed for both new and experienced consumers. All four locations carry dried flower, pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, capsules, concentrates, and accessories.
Ashario Cannabis: Finch & Dufferin (North York)
- Address: 1111A Finch Ave W Unit 1, North York, ON M3J 2P7
- Phone: +1-647-368-7722
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Ashario Cannabis: Centerpoint Mall (North York)
- Address: 6464 Yonge St Unit #187, North York, ON M2M 3X4
- Phone: +1-416-477-9333
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Ashario Cannabis: Aurora
- Address: 15114 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1M2
- Phone: +1-905-503-6770
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Ashario Cannabis: Thornton
- Address: 239 Barrie St, Thornton, ON L0L 2N0
- Phone: +1-249-733-9333
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
All four Ashario Cannabis locations are open seven days a week from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, offering one of the most accessible retail schedules among Ontario's licensed cannabis retailers. View all store details and get directions on the Ashario store locations page.
Ashario's product curators actively monitor new strain releases from licensed producers across Canada to ensure a current, diverse, and quality-focused selection at every location. Whether you are in North York, Aurora, or Thornton, you can expect consistent standards and knowledgeable service. Browse current product offerings by category on the Ashario Cannabis product collections page.
If you have specific strain requests, questions about availability, or want guidance before visiting in person, Ashario's team can be reached via the contact page or by calling your nearest location directly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Strains
What is the difference between indica and sativa cannabis strains?
Indica and sativa are the two primary cannabis classifications, originally based on the plant's physical characteristics and geographic origin. Indica strains are traditionally associated with relaxing, body-focused effects, while sativa strains are traditionally associated with more energizing and cerebral experiences. However, modern cannabis research suggests these categories are an imperfect predictor of effects, as nearly all commercial cannabis is genetically hybrid to some degree. Terpene profiles and THC/CBD ratios are often more reliable predictors of the effect character of a specific product.
What are terpenes and why do they matter when choosing a strain?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds produced by the cannabis plant that give each strain its distinctive scent and flavour. They also interact with cannabinoids to influence the overall effect experience: a concept known as the entourage effect. Dominant terpenes like myrcene (earthy, relaxing), limonene (citrus, uplifting), and caryophyllene (spicy, grounding) are key indicators of a strain's likely character. When choosing a strain, looking at the terpene profile alongside THC and CBD percentages gives you the most complete picture available.
How much THC is too much for a beginner?
For consumers new to cannabis, starting with products containing 10 to 15% THC or lower is generally recommended. Very high-potency products (25%+) can produce intense effects that are uncomfortable for inexperienced consumers. Regardless of format, the principle of "start low, go slow" is the most consistently recommended approach. For edibles and capsules, this is especially important given the delayed onset time.
What does it mean when a strain has a high CBD percentage?
A high CBD percentage indicates that the strain contains significant quantities of cannabidiol relative to THC. CBD-dominant strains (where CBD exceeds THC) produce minimal to no psychoactive intoxication. Balanced strains with roughly equal THC and CBD are associated with a more moderate and controlled experience by many consumers. CBD-forward products are a popular choice for new consumers, those with lower THC tolerance, or anyone seeking a more subtle cannabis experience.
Can I find specific named strains at Ashario Cannabis locations?
Strain availability at Ashario Cannabis varies by location and changes regularly as new products arrive from licensed producers. To check current availability, visit the Ashario product collections page or contact your nearest location directly. Our stores in North York (Finch & Dufferin and Centerpoint Mall), Aurora, and Thornton each carry a rotating selection of flower strains across indica, sativa, and hybrid categories, as well as pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, and capsules.
Is there a difference between buying cannabis online versus in-store in Ontario?
In Ontario, cannabis can be purchased in-person at licensed private retail stores like Ashario Cannabis. In-store shopping offers the advantage of in-person guidance from trained budtenders who can explain strain profiles, terpene data, and help match products to your goals. For many consumers, especially those who are new to cannabis or exploring unfamiliar products, in-store shopping at a well-staffed dispensary provides a meaningfully better experience.
How should I store dried cannabis flower after purchasing it?
Dried cannabis flower is best stored in an airtight container (glass is ideal) away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Maintaining a relative humidity of 55 to 62% inside the storage container helps preserve terpene content and moisture balance. Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage, as static can strip trichomes from the flower. Properly stored cannabis flower can maintain quality for several months post-purchase.
Are hybrid strains stronger than indica or sativa strains?
Strength or potency is determined by the cannabinoid content of a specific product, not by whether it is classified as a hybrid, indica, or sativa. Many of the most high-potency strains available in Ontario's legal market are hybrids, but this is a reflection of breeding trends rather than an inherent characteristic of hybrid genetics. Always refer to the Total THC percentage on the product label as the primary indicator of potency, regardless of strain category.
This guide was produced by the editorial team at Ashario Cannabis, Ontario's premium cannabis dispensary. Information is current as of January 2026 and is intended for educational purposes for adults aged 19 and older. Nothing in this guide constitutes medical advice. Always consume cannabis responsibly and in accordance with Ontario law.
Ashario Cannabis operates four licensed dispensaries across Ontario:
- Finch & Dufferin: 1111A Finch Ave W Unit 1, North York, ON M3J 2P7 | +1-647-368-7722 | Open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily
- Centerpoint Mall: 6464 Yonge St Unit #187, North York, ON M2M 3X4 | +1-416-477-9333 | Open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily
- Aurora: 15114 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1M2 | +1-905-503-6770 | Open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily
- Thornton: 239 Barrie St, Thornton, ON L0L 2N0 | +1-249-733-9333 | Open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily
Home | About Ashario | Shop Cannabis | Blog | Store Locations | Contact Us
Important Notice: Content on this website is intended strictly for informational purposes. Ashario does not promote any product or represent that the products mentioned on Ashario's website are treatments for any kind of medical condition. Ashario cannot guarantee that information provided is error-free or complete and is not responsible for the quality of the information provided by users. Ashario does not endorse any user-reported information, any particular strain, product, producer, organization, treatment, or therapy.