Terpene Profiles Myrcene

Myrcene is the most abundant terpene commonly found across cannabis cultivars, often comprising 20-65% of the total terpene profile in many strains. This monoterpene is also present in hops, mangoes, lemongrass, and thyme, contributing to earthy, herbal, and sometimes fruity aromatic characteristics. In cannabis breeding records, myrcene-dominant strains are frequently associated with lineages derived from landrace varieties and indica-leaning genetics. The presence of myrcene is thought to influence the overall sensory complexity of a cultivar, working synergistically with other volatile compounds to shape the plant's aromatic expression.

Breeders working with myrcene-rich genetics often select parent plants to stabilize this terpene profile when developing cultivars with specific aromatic signatures. Understanding myrcene content helps breeders predict and refine how a strain will smell and taste, making it a useful marker in phenotype selection and strain stabilization programs.