Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene (β-caryophyllene) is a sesquiterpene commonly detected in cannabis flower and widely distributed across the plant kingdom, including in black pepper, hops, and cloves. In cannabis breeding records, strains tagged as caryophyllene-dominant are frequently associated with spicy, peppery, or woody aromatic profiles. This terpene is one of the most abundant volatiles in many modern cultivars, particularly in lineages derived from OG Kush and certain Haze genetics. Caryophyllene appears early in flower development and is often retained through proper drying and curing methods. Breeders working in this category frequently select parent plants showing pronounced peppery notes during phenotype evaluation.

Caryophyllene presence is a reliable marker in selection programs because it remains stable across generations and grows robustly in most growing environments. Breeders cross high-caryophyllene parents to establish consistent aroma profiles and to maintain diversity within flavor-focused breeding lines.