#100: Where Mythology Meets Hemp: The Story Behind SevenTails

There are many myths that have captured our imagination and curiosity throughout history. One of these is the legend of the nine-tailed fox, or Kitsune, in Japanese mythology. From its mystical abilities to its stunning appearance, this mythical creature has fascinated people for centuries. So what does a Kitsune have to do with hemp cultivation?

If you're Nancy Kinney, owner of SevenTails Cultivation, the answer is everything. With a passion for both cannabis and mythology, Kinney loved the magical properties of the cannabis plant and the mystical allure of the Kitsune. She combined these two passions to create a thoughtful, unique approach to hemp cultivation.

Located in scenic Cordova Bay on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, SevenTails Cultivation is a micro-cultivation facility specializing in growing high-quality, artisanal hemp flower. With a dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Kinney and her team have created a truly unique growing experience that is rooted in both ancient mythology and modern science.

We had the opportunity to chat with Kinney about her inspiration and methods for growing hemp, and how the legend of the Kitsune plays a role in her cultivation practices. Here's what she had to say:

 

What inspired you to start Seventails Cultivation? 

At Seventails, we recognize that high-CBD cannabis products now represent a significant and growing segment of the cannabis market. Many individuals who hadn’t used cannabis before legalization are seeking low-THC experiences, often prioritizing CBD for its therapeutic qualities without intense psychoactive effects.

Even seasoned high-THC consumers are exploring the benefits of low-THC products, often mixing hemp flower with their favorite marijuana strains to create a balanced and even enhanced experience. This shift has informed our focus on cultivating premium, high-CBD hemp products that meet these diverse needs, helping both new and experienced consumers explore cannabis in ways that support their personal wellness and enjoyment.

The inspiration for the name Seventails and our brand identity, centered on the mystical, multi-tailed Kitsune, came from our designer and shareholder Balazs Vekes back in 2014 when he was tasked with branding our new cannabis company. His concept reflects the symbolic growth, wisdom, and transformation associated with the Kitsune in Japanese folklore, aligning perfectly with our vision for the cannabis plant’s potential.

Through Seventails, we bring this story to life, creating a brand that resonates with those seeking both quality and meaningful connection in their cannabis experience, with a focus on low-THC products. 

Can you tell us a bit about the legend of the Kitsune and how it inspired your approach to hemp cultivation? 

The Kitsune is a magical fox spirit that gains wisdom, power, and tails as it grows older and wiser. This progression is mirrored beautifully in the cannabis plant, which also reveals its strength and vitality as it grows more leaves. The healthier and more mature the plant, the more leaves it has, just as the Kitsune gains tails with age.

Both the cannabis leaf and the Kitsune’s tails often appear in symbolic numbers like seven or nine, making the plant a natural reflection of the Kitsune's journey. This synergy inspired our approach at Seventails: we cultivate each plant as a unique expression of this growth, wisdom, and natural balance. 

There are nine different types of Kitsune in Japanese mythology, each with unique abilities. From shapeshifting to illusion-casting, these creatures are known for their mystical powers. How do these abilities translate into your cultivation practices? 

Each of these Kitsune abilities represents qualities we strive to bring into our cultivation practices. Shapeshifting, for instance, symbolizes our flexibility and responsiveness to each plant's needs, while illusion-casting reminds us of the plant’s multifaceted effects on the mind and body.

Each stage of cultivation is an opportunity to refine our methods, learning from each plant and growing cycle, much like the Kitsune grows wiser with each tail. This approach allows us to cultivate hemp that’s both artisanal and therapeutic. 

It’s clear that the Kitsune plays a significant role in your cultivation methods. But how do you balance mythology with modern science in your approach? 

Mythology gives us inspiration and a unique story to tell, while science provides the tools to bring it to life. Our team combines the artistry and symbolism of the Kitsune with rigorous cultivation standards, monitoring each plant’s health and growth metrics closely.

We are committed to using sustainable and precise cultivation techniques to yield the highest quality hemp flower. In this way, we blend the mythological with the practical to create a product that’s as pure as it is inspired. 

What sets Seventails Cultivation apart from other hemp growers? 

At Seventails we believe in working closely with and supporting other hemp and cannabis growers. We see all producers as partners in a shared journey, united in the journey toward wider legalization and recognition. As a boutique outdoor cultivation operation, we give each plant individualized care and attention in its natural environment.

Our ethos is built around respect for the plant, meticulous craftsmanship, and a thoughtful approach to cultivation. We also offer cannabis tours, inviting visitors to experience the journey from seed to harvest firsthand. Set against the scenic backdrop of Cordova Bay on Vancouver Island, with sweeping views over the Haro Strait and Mount Baker, Seventails allows guests to witness our growing process in a truly breathtaking setting.

Through this blend of quality, artistry, and connection to nature, Seventails offers an immersive experience that highlights the art and science of hemp cultivation. Visitors leave with a lasting appreciation for the plant, its natural beauty, and the dedication we bring to every step of our process. 

You’ve released Umpqua and Ambassador hemp strains. What makes these varieties stand out? 

Umpqua and Ambassador embody our commitment to quality and craftsmanship, each offering a distinctive experience rooted in their unique terpene profiles and carefully cultivated traits.

Ambassador, developed by the renowned Charlotte's Web breeding team, provides a sensory journey through its sweet, earthy aroma with hints of citrus and pine. The calming effects of its primary terpenes, like β-Myrcene, β-Caryophyllene, and Limonene, make it a perfect choice for relaxation and mood enhancement, delivering a smooth, ready-to-enjoy smoking experience with every pre-roll.

Umpqua, a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid, exudes a strong, sweet aroma with notes of pine, citrus, and subtle hints of hops and peaches. Its terpene blend, featuring β-Myrcene, β-Caryophyllene, α-Bisabolol, and Cedrol, promotes tranquility and mental clarity, ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet uplifting experience. Both strains are crafted to offer an elevated, artisanal experience that reflects the dedication we put into every detail at Seventails. 

What has been the response from consumers to your unique approach to hemp cultivation? 

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with people resonating deeply with the mythological Kitsune connection, finding it both symbolic and captivating. At Seventails, we understand that consumers seek CBD products for a variety of reasons. Some are drawn to our high-quality hemp flower to enhance their THC experience, while others enjoy our pre-rolls daily for relaxation and mental clarity without THC’s psychoactive effects.

With demand rising for low-THC products—and limited options for those seeking a smoking experience without the psychoactive effects—Seventails is committed to filling this gap. We provide our loyal customers with premium CBD products at competitive prices, crafted with the quality and care they deserve. 

The cannabis industry in Canada is rife with regulations and challenges. How have you navigated these obstacles as a micro-cultivator? 

Navigating regulations as a small-scale operation requires resilience and adaptability, much like the Kitsune itself. We stay informed of the latest industry standards, maintain open communication with regulatory bodies, and emphasize compliance and quality control. While restrictive laws can be challenging, they also present opportunities for creative solutions.

For example, although we can’t use the fox logo on our labels, we adapted by branding our CBD and hemp products under the name “Sevens” and using only the fox’s tails as our logo, keeping us compliant while staying true to our brand’s essence. This approach has helped us build a strong foundation and lets us keep focusing on creating products that meet both our standards and those of our customers. 

What future plans do you have for Seventails Cultivation? 

We’re focused on growing our strain offerings and expanding our reach in the wellness and medical cannabis markets. Alongside our premium cured flower and pre-rolls, we’re developing “2.0” extract products, such as CBD vape cartridges, oils, topicals, and beverages, to offer even more options to our customers.

We’re also looking to deepen our storytelling by exploring additional mythological and symbolic elements in our branding, thanks to the creativity and vision of our designer, Balazs. Ultimately, we aim to make Seventails a symbol of trust and a source of inspiration, bringing the magic of the Kitsune and the therapeutic potential of the cannabis plant to a wider audience. 

Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about Seventails Cultivation and your mission? 

At Seventails, our mission is to offer high-quality, thoughtfully cultivated hemp products rooted in respect for nature and inspired by ancient stories. We want our customers to feel connected to something larger than themselves—a story that honors both tradition and innovation, mirroring the journey of cannabis legalization.

Just as the Kitsune gains wisdom and power over time, the legalization movement has evolved, overcoming challenges and shifting perceptions to reveal the plant’s true value in wellness and society. And while the Kitsune may be mythical, the magic we’re cultivating at Seventails is very real, rooted in the dedication to quality and the belief in cannabis as a meaningful force for positive change.

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