Gardeners, Don't Be Fooled: These 6 Plants May Look Like Cannabis, But They're Not

With the new U.S. Farm Bill and Texas legislation cracking down on "intoxicating hemp," be aware of these look-alikes.

As the saying goes, don't judge a book by its cover. And in the case of these six plants, don't be too quick to assume they're cannabis. While they may bear an uncanny resemblance, especially in their immature stages, they are entirely different species. From the Southern favorite cassava to the ornamental Japanese maple, here's a list of plants that could be mistaken for cannabis, according to Tyler William, CEO of Secret Nature and a cannabis plant expert:

1. Cassava

What it is: A woody shrub native to South America, thriving in warmer regions like Florida, Texas, and Southern California.

Why it's confusing: It loves full sun and well-drained soil, and grows best when temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees. Its habitat may be similar to cannabis, but don't be fooled.

2. Hemp Agrimony

What it is: A member of the daisy family, known for its stunning purplish-pink flowers.

Why it's confusing: The leaves of this plant, also called Holy Rope, can be easily mistaken for those of Sativa cannabis plants.

3. Chaste Tree

What it is: A mature chaste tree has a distinct appearance, but its immature stages can be deceiving.

Why it's confusing: Its leaves have a similar look to cannabis, but only in the early stages of growth.

4. Texas Star Hibiscus

What it is: This vibrant plant, also known as the scarlet rosemallow, boasts stunning red and white flowers when mature.

Why it's confusing: In its growth phase, the leaves closely resemble those of cannabis. It thrives in warm, humid climates and needs full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

5. Japanese Maple

What it is: An ornamental tree native to Asia.

Why it's confusing: In its early growth stages, before the leaves change color, it looks surprisingly similar to cannabis.

6. Spider Flower

What it is: An innocent flower that can be mistaken for an Indica-dominant cannabis plant.

Why it's confusing: Its early growth stage is a lookalike, but as it matures, it displays beautiful purple and white flowers, clearly setting it apart from cannabis.

Learn more about drug testing and cannabis: How long does weed stay in your system?