Myrcene Terpene Signature

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis, commonly representing 20–65% of total terpene content in many cultivars. This monoterpene is also found in hops, mangoes, and lemongrass, and is often tagged as having an earthy, herbal, sometimes fruity or spicy character depending on co-occurring terpenes and cannabinoids. Lineage records frequently report myrcene-dominant profiles across both indica and sativa-type plants, though breeding programs have historically selected for myrcene-rich chemotypes in many foundational strains. The prominence of myrcene in cannabis genetics reflects both its role in plant biochemistry and its prevalence across global cannabis breeding stock.

Breeders working in this category often use myrcene profiles as a marker for chemotype stability and consistency across generations. High-myrcene cultivars are valued in breeding programs for predictable terpene expression and as parent material for targeted terpene blending with other monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.