Bract Coloration

Bract coloration refers to the color expression of the leaf-like structures (bracts) surrounding cannabis flower clusters. These pigments—primarily anthocyanins, carotenoids, and chlorophyll—develop during late flowering and are influenced by genetics, temperature, and light exposure. Bract colors range from deep purples and blues to reds, oranges, and yellows, with green remaining common across most cultivars. Lineage records frequently report consistent bract coloration within established strain families, making it a useful phenotypic marker in breeding programs. Unlike calyx structure or trichome density, bract color has limited practical breeding applications but serves as a visual identifier for cultivar verification and seed stock documentation.

Breeders working in decorative or novelty markets selectively maintain purple, red, or unusual bract phenotypes for visual distinction. However, bract coloration is considered a secondary trait in most commercial breeding, where cannabinoid profiles, terpene expression, and plant vigor take priority.