Which of the following describes marijuana?

The correct answer, which identifies marijuana as a cannabis plant, reflects its botanical classification. Marijuana comes from the Cannabis sativa species, which includes various strains that can produce psychoactive effects primarily due to compounds known as cannabinoids, particularly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Understanding marijuana in this context emphasizes its biological and agricultural roots rather than focusing on legal, psychological, or societal aspects associated with its use.

The other options describe aspects or perceptions related to marijuana but do not capture its fundamental nature. While marijuana is often discussed in the context of legality (as a recreational drug), its legal status varies significantly across different jurisdictions and thus cannot universally define it. Regarding its classification as a psychoactive stimulant, marijuana does contain psychoactive components, but it is more accurately categorized as a psychoactive depressant or hallucinogen, depending on its effects, rather than solely as a stimulant. Lastly, describing it as a non-addictive substance overlooks the evidence showing that marijuana can have addictive properties, particularly in certain individuals, thereby complicating its classification regarding addiction.