Whether you’re walking into your first dispensary on Collins Avenue or placing a delivery order from the comfort of your condo in Brickell, understanding cannabis weights and how they’re used is essential for new consumers in Miami. With terms like “eighth,” “quarter,” and “zip” thrown around casually by seasoned users, it can feel a little overwhelming. This guide will help you decode cannabis weight measurements, so you can shop confidently—whether in-store or online.
Cannabis Weights: The Basics
Cannabis is typically measured and sold in the imperial system by ounces and grams, and broken down into standard amounts. Here’s a breakdown:
- Gram (1g): The smallest quantity available, ideal for trying a new strain or for light users. A gram is usually enough for one or two joints.
- Eighth (3.5g): Short for 1/8 of an ounce, this is one of the most commonly purchased weights. It typically provides enough for 5–7 joints or several bowls depending on your consumption.
- Quarter (7g): Equal to 1/4 of an ounce, a quarter is a popular size for regular users. It’s double an eighth and can last a week or two, depending on personal use.
- Half (14g): A half-ounce of flower is great for frequent consumers or those looking to stock up. It offers more value per gram compared to smaller amounts.
- Ounce (28g): Often referred to as a “zip”, an ounce is the largest quantity legally available for purchase at one time in Florida under the medical program. It’s suitable for heavy users or for those preparing edibles or tinctures at home.
Medical Purchase Limits in Florida
As a medical cannabis state, Florida restricts purchases to 2.5 ounces every 35 days for qualified patients. This limit includes both in-store purchases and delivery orders combined. That means if you buy an ounce one week, you can only purchase another 0.5 ounce in that 35-day period. Dispensaries in Miami will typically track this through the state’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry.
Flower vs. Other Forms
It’s important to note that weight terminology usually refers to smokable flower. Products like edibles, vapes, and concentrates follow different labeling—often listed in milligrams (mg) for THC content or as “units” based on medical dosage limits.
For example:
- A 500mg vape cartridge does not weigh 500 milligrams of cannabis.
- A 10mg THC gummy may be part of a 100mg pack—still under your state-issued dosage limits.
Shopping In-Store vs. Delivery
When shopping in-store, dispensary staff in Miami are trained to walk you through weight options. You can ask to see the product and even smell it before purchase (where allowed). For delivery, most dispensary websites like Trulieve, Sunnyside, and MÜV list available quantities by weight with price-per-gram comparisons, helping you understand the value.
Final Tips for First-Time Buyers
- Start small: A gram or an eighth is great for sampling.
- Ask questions: Budtenders in Miami are helpful and informative.
- Know your limit: Keep track of your 35-day allotment through your registry.
- Be legal: Always shop from licensed dispensaries, especially for delivery.
With this knowledge, navigating cannabis weights becomes second nature. Whether you’re lounging in South Beach or exploring Wynwood, you’ll be able to choose the right amount with confidence.