What is the definition of a cannabis plant in legal terms?

The definition of a cannabis plant in legal terms refers specifically to any growing plant of the genus Cannabis. This definition encompasses all stages of the plant's life cycle, from seedling to mature flowering plant, irrespective of its intended use—whether for medicinal, recreational, or industrial purposes. Legal frameworks often focus on the genus and its characteristics to provide clarity regarding what constitutes a cannabis plant under the law. This broad inclusivity ensures that all forms of cannabis plants are regulated appropriately, recognizing the species' various strains and cultivars.

Other interpretations, such as a plant cultivated solely for recreational use, would not capture the full scope of the definition, as it excludes those cultivated for other legitimate purposes. Also, a distinction between imported cannabis plants and harvested products does not align with the legal classification of what constitutes a cannabis plant, which fundamentally relates to its live growth rather than its status as a non-growing product or the origin of the plant.