Leaflet Shape

Leaflet shape refers to the morphology of individual leaflets that comprise a cannabis leaf. Cannabis plants typically display palmate (hand-like) leaves with leaflets arranged radially around a central petiole, though leaflet count, width, and edge characteristics vary significantly across genetics. Leaflet shape is influenced by both genotype and environmental conditions, making it a useful but not absolute marker for strain identification. Narrow-leaflet varieties are often associated with sativa-leaning genetics, while broader leaflets appear more common in indica-influenced lines. Breeders document leaflet shape as part of phenotypic documentation and breeding records, though this trait alone cannot definitively determine cannabinoid or terpene profiles.

Breeders track leaflet morphology during phenotype screening and parent selection, as distinctive leaf shapes can serve as visual markers for consistent lines. Leaflet characteristics are heritable and help breeders distinguish phenotypic expressions within hybrid crosses and maintain breeding population records.