Node Structure

Node structure refers to the physical spacing and arrangement of branch nodes along a cannabis plant's stem — the points where leaves and lateral branches emerge. Breeders classify plants as either close-nodded (tight, compact spacing) or wide-nodded (loose, extended spacing), with phenotypic variation occurring within most lineages. This trait is heritable and influences canopy density, light penetration, and overall plant architecture. Close-nodded cultivars often require different training approaches than wide-nodded types to optimize yield under fixed lighting. Node structure is frequently documented in breeding records as a marker of strain phenotype stability and cultivation requirements.

Breeders select for specific node spacing to match target cultivation environments—close nodes suit intensive canopy management and vertical farming, while wide nodes benefit lower-stress outdoor grows. Understanding node structure helps predict how a strain will respond to pruning, topping, and environmental stress across generations.