Myrcene Family

The Myrcene Family encompasses cannabis strains and breeding lineages where myrcene comprises a notable proportion of the terpene profile, often 20–65% or higher of total terpene content. Myrcene is a monoterpene commonly associated with earthy, herbal, and sometimes fruity or clove-like aromatic notes. Strains historically tagged as Indica-dominant or landrace-derived varieties frequently report elevated myrcene levels, though the terpene appears across the spectrum of cannabis genetics. Breeders working in this category often select for parent plants displaying robust myrcene expression to maintain these characteristic aromatics in their crossing programs. Understanding myrcene prevalence helps contextualize regional strain development and terpene-targeted breeding strategies.

Breeders pursuing myrcene-forward phenotypes typically backcross to established cultivars with documented myrcene-rich chemotypes. Selection for myrcene stability across generations requires phytochemical testing and careful environmental control, as terpene expression varies with cultivation conditions.