Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found across diverse cannabis cultivars and in numerous plant species including black pepper, cloves, and hops. In cannabis genetics, caryophyllene is one of the most abundant terpenes and is frequently associated with spicy, peppery, and woody aromatic profiles. Lineage records and lab analyses commonly report caryophyllene as a primary volatile compound in both indica and sativa-descended strains. Breeders have observed that caryophyllene expression varies significantly across cultivars, influenced by both genetic background and cultivation conditions. This terpene's prevalence across unrelated breeding lines suggests multiple genetic pathways may regulate its biosynthesis in cannabis.

Cannabis breeders monitor caryophyllene content as a marker for aroma phenotype selection and as part of terpene profiling programs. Cultivars with elevated caryophyllene are often maintained in breeding libraries specifically for crossing programs targeting spicy or peppery aroma characteristics.