Legal cultivation of industrial hemp is only possible in Germany with approved EU varieties. We show you all 122 varieties that will be permitted in 2026, explain the difference between the BLE list and the EU variety catalog, and how to use the interactive table to quickly find the right variety for your project.
Why only certain hemp varieties are permitted
Not every hemp plant may be cultivated in Germany. Regulation protects against misuse and ensures that only varieties with low THC content are cultivated. We explain which legal foundations apply and why the choice of variety is so crucial.
THC limit and legal basis
The cultivation of industrial hemp in Germany is tied to a clear THC limit: The plants may contain a maximum of 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol. This regulation is based on the Narcotics Act and European guidelines. Only varieties that reliably comply with this value are approved. This creates legal certainty for farmers and processors – and ensures that industrial hemp remains clearly separated from cannabis with psychoactive effects. The limit was deliberately chosen to enable cultivation for fibers, seeds, and CBD extraction without increasing the potential for abuse.
BLE List vs. EU Variety Catalog: The Difference
In Germany, there are two relevant lists: The Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE) maintains a national list of varieties that may be cultivated in this country. In parallel, there is the common EU variety catalog, which includes all industrial hemp varieties approved in the Union. Not every EU variety is automatically permitted in Germany – some are listed in the EU catalog but are blocked for German cultivation. This can have various reasons, such as different testing procedures or regional peculiarities. For your cultivation, what matters is: The variety must be on the BLE list and marked as "Approved." Only then are you legally on the safe side.
What happens in case of violations?
Anyone who cultivates hemp without permission or with unapproved varieties is operating within the scope of the Narcotics Act. The consequences can be severe: Fines, destruction of the harvest, criminal penalties. Even for approved varieties, the following applies: Cultivation must be registered with the BLE, and the plants are subject to regular inspections. If the THC limit is exceeded – for example, due to unfavorable weather conditions or incorrect variety selection – the entire harvest can become unusable. Therefore, careful selection from the official list is the first and most important step.
How to use the interactive variety list
Our table shows all 122 approved hemp varieties for 2026 – clearly arranged, filterable, and mobile-optimized. With just a few clicks, you can find the variety that suits your project. We show you how to best use search, filter, and sorting.
Using search and filter correctly
The search function reacts in real time: Simply enter a variety name or country of origin, and the list will adjust automatically. This saves time if you already have a specific variety in mind. In addition, two filters are available: The country dropdown shows only varieties from a specific country of origin – practical if you are specifically looking for French or Dutch breeding. The BLE status filter distinguishes between "Approved" and "Restricted" for Germany. This allows you to see at a glance which varieties you are actually allowed to cultivate and which are only listed in the EU catalog but blocked in this country.
Sorting by name, country, or status
You can sort the list by various criteria: Use the dropdown menu for quick sorting from A to Z or vice versa. Alternatively, click directly on the column headers – one click sorts in ascending order, a second in descending order. This helps if you need an overview by countries of origin or want to see all blocked varieties at a glance. The sorting remains active even if you use filters or search simultaneously. This way, you maintain control over your view.
Mobile view: Swiping and scrolling
On your smartphone, the table remains fully functional: Swipe right to see all columns – the variety name column remains fixed so you always know which variety you are currently viewing. When scrolling vertically, the header remains visible at the top so you don't lose sight of the column headings. The color badges are also clearly visible on small screens: Green stands for "Approved" in the German BLE list, orange for "Blocked (DE)" – in the EU catalog, but prohibited in Germany. Another green badge indicates "Listed" in the EU variety catalog. This way, you can navigate safely through the list even when on the go.
Overview of the most important hemp varieties
From proven classics to specialized breeds – the diversity is great. We introduce you to the most common varieties, show which countries contribute which breeds, and what's behind blocked varieties.
Popular varieties for German cultivation
Some varieties have become particularly well established in Germany: They are robust, reliable in THC content, and readily available. These include varieties such as Fedora 17, Futura 75, or Finola – names frequently heard in the industry. These varieties are suitable for different purposes: Some are optimized for fiber yield, others for seed production or CBD content. Which variety suits you depends on your project. The BLE list gives you the certainty that all listed varieties meet the legal requirements. Many farmers rely on regional experience and recommendations – a look at the list shows you what options are available.
Countries of origin and their breeding programs
The approved varieties come from various European countries: France, the Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, and other states have their own breeding programs. Each country brings different focuses – French varieties are often considered particularly fiber-oriented, Dutch breeds are often designed for seed yield. However, the origin does not automatically indicate suitability for German growing conditions. Many varieties have now been tested and adapted across Europe. In our table, you can see the country of origin of each variety – this allows you to specifically search for breeds from certain regions or discover the diversity of European hemp breeding.
Blocked varieties: What you need to know
Some varieties are listed in the EU variety catalog but are not approved for cultivation in Germany. This is indicated by the orange badge "Blocked (DE)". The reasons for this vary: Sometimes national tests are missing, sometimes there are concerns regarding the THC content under German climatic conditions. For you, this means: You are not allowed to cultivate these varieties in Germany, even if they are permitted in other EU countries. The blocking is binding and will be checked during inspections. Our list makes this distinction transparent – this way you avoid errors in variety selection and remain legally on the safe side.
Planning cultivation: Next steps
The right variety has been chosen – now it's about practical implementation. We show you what steps are necessary before the first cultivation, where to obtain certified seeds, and what to consider regarding documentation and inspections.
Registration and Approval
Before you start cultivating, you must register your project with the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food. The registration is done in writing and must contain certain information: variety name, cultivation area, sowing date, and location of the fields. The BLE checks your information and confirms the registration. Without this confirmation, cultivation is not permitted. The registration deadline usually ends before sowing – inform yourself in good time about the current dates. Even if you have already cultivated hemp in previous years, a new registration is required each year. The BLE provides all necessary forms and information on its website.
Obtaining Seeds: Certified Sources
The seeds must come from certified propagation – only then is it ensured that the variety meets the requirements. Recognized seed companies provide a certificate with each batch confirming the varietal purity and THC content. You must keep this certificate and be able to present it during inspections. Make sure that the seeds are approved for the current growing season – older batches may lose their certification. Many breeders and dealers specialize in industrial hemp and can advise you on the selection. Investing in high-quality, certified seeds pays off – it is the basis for legally compliant and successful cultivation.
Documentation and Controls
During the growing season, you are obliged to document all relevant steps: sowing, care, harvesting. The BLE carries out random checks – plant samples are taken and tested for their THC content. These checks are unannounced and mandatory. Keep all documents ready: registration confirmation, seed certificate, cultivation plan. Follow-up checks may also occur after harvest. The documentation serves your protection – it proves that you have complied with all regulations. Treat it as part of your quality management. This creates transparency and builds trust – with authorities, customers, and the entire value chain.