Zamal - the legendary sativa landrace from La Réunion
Zamal (La Réunion): The Cult Sativa Landrace and Its “Mangu’ Karot” Profile
Updated: January 2026 | Zamal Mangu’ Karot Guide: La Réunion Sativa Landrace | Cannapot
Author: Cannapot Grow Team | Reading time: approximately eleven minutes
Zamal is a name linked to a legendary sativa landrace from La Réunion (a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean). In local and historical use, “zamal” is also a common word used to refer to cannabis on the island in a broader sense. One of the most famous expressions is known as Mangu’ Karot (often written “Mango Carrot”), recognized for a very specific aroma profile: mango + carrot.
Zamal quick facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Common name | Zamal |
| Associated origin | La Réunion |
| Family | Sativa landrace / strongly sativa-dominant |
| Famous nickname | Mangu’ Karot (mango + carrot) |
| General vibe | Energetic, very strong, lively, often described as clear and stimulating (varies) |
Origin: why Zamal is associated with La Réunion
La Réunion is a tropical island with a humid climate and a long history of cultural and botanical exchange. Zamal is often described as a form of local heritage, shaped over time through adaptation to the environment and informal seed selection.
One key point matters here: Zamal is commonly presented as a local family rather than a single “one-and-only” clone. That explains why descriptions can differ. Depending on island regions, lines, and selection, you can see differences in structure, aroma, and vigor.
The word “Zamal”: local usage and everyday meaning
On La Réunion, “Zamal” is not only used to label a specific variety. In everyday local speech, it can also refer to cannabis in general.
It helps to remember there are two layers:
-
Zamal (broad meaning): cannabis as it is commonly named locally
-
Zamal (genetic meaning): a sativa landrace and its expressions/“kalités” (types)
Is Zamal truly a “landrace”?
A landrace is usually understood as a population that becomes rooted in a place over many generations, adapting to climate, seasons, and human choices (saving seed from preferred plants).
With Zamal, the core idea is this: an island sativa tied to La Réunion, with multiple possible expressions depending on the line and selection.
"Kalités”: the best-known Zamal types
On La Réunion, people often talk about different “kalités” (types) of zamal. The names can vary, but the idea is consistent: local expressions with distinct aromatic or visual signatures.
Mangu’ Karot (Mango Carrot)
The most famous type. It is known for bold mango notes with a distinct carrot nuance (sweet, vegetal, almost like “juice”). It is often the most sought-after expression for fans of exotic profiles.
Peppery / spicy Zamal
An expression often described as warmer and drier on the nose: spice, wood, sometimes a pepper-like impression. People who like more complex, less fruity sativas tend to prefer this style.
Fruity Zamal (outside of Mangu’ Karot)
Some lines are described as very fruity without the clear “carrot” marker. The profile stays tropical, sometimes sweet, sometimes more tangy.
Zamal with strongly marked pistils
In some descriptions, certain types are identified by visible traits (pistil density, color, and similar features). For readers, this mainly shows that there is real local diversity.
Key takeaway: these “kalités” are not universal labels. They describe tendencies, and names can change depending on who is speaking and when.
Aroma profile: why Zamal gets so much attention
Zamal stands out mainly because of its character. Even among people who have tried many sativas, descriptions often emphasize:
-
tropical notes (mango, ripe fruit)
-
vegetal nuances (herbs, stems, sometimes a “sweet vegetable” feel)
-
woody/spicy tones in certain lines
Mangu’ Karot zoom-in: mango + carrot
This pairing is what makes people talk. A clear mango front, followed by a sweet carrot note that can feel surprisingly “real.” When someone searches “zamal mangu karot,” they are often looking for that signature.
Effects: how people describe Zamal (without promises)
Zamal is often grouped among sativas that are described as:
-
stimulating
-
uplifting
-
mentally active
This still varies. The same line can feel different depending on dose, time of day, tolerance, and setting.
Commonly cited characteristics
Because Zamal is a family, details can differ. Here are broad trends that often show up for landrace sativas or very sativa-heavy lines with this type of background:
| Characteristic | Common trend |
|---|---|
| Dominance | Strongly sativa |
| Vigor | Often high |
| Expression | More variation than heavily standardized modern varieties |
| Flowering period (general) | Often longer than many modern hybrids |
| Profile | Tropical or spicy depending on the line |
How to spot a credible Zamal reference (useful if you are looking for seeds)
A lot of listings use “Zamal” because it is well-known. To find a line that feels true to the name, check for:
-
A clear connection to La Réunion
-
A consistent description: landrace sativa / strongly sativa, not a random hybrid
-
An aroma signature: mention of a known expression (like Mangu’ Karot) if that is your goal
-
Transparency: line name, breeder, and clear positioning
Where to find Mangu’ Karot (Zamal) seeds
Cannapot carries Mangu’ Karot aka Zamal (French Touch Seeds). You can view the listing here: Zamal
Useful alternative: CBD seeds
If you came here for Zamal but you are also exploring CBD-focused genetics, you can browse Cannapot’s CBD seed category here: CBD Seeds
FAQs
Q: Does Zamal really come from La Réunion?
A: Zamal is widely associated with La Réunion in historical and cultural descriptions. It is often presented as a local sativa landrace.
Q: Is “Zamal” the name of one exact variety?
A: Not always. In local use, “zamal” can also mean cannabis in general. Genetically, it is more accurate to think of a family of local sativas and their expressions.
Q: What does Mangu’ Karot mean?
A: Mangu’ Karot is a nickname tied to a famous Zamal expression known for a “mango + carrot” aroma profile.
Q: Is Zamal more energetic or relaxing?
A: Zamal is often described as energetic and mentally active. Experiences still vary.
Q: Why is Zamal searched so much in France?
Because La Réunion is a French territory, Zamal has a specific cultural resonance. Many people search for it for its history and its unique aroma identity.
