Sesquiterpene
Sesquiterpenes are a large class of volatile organic compounds found across cannabis chemotypes, characterized by a 15-carbon skeleton (C15H24). They form via the sequential combination of three isoprene units and are responsible for many secondary aromas in mature cannabis flowers—often described as woody, herbal, earthy, or spicy notes. Major sesquiterpenes in cannabis include β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, α-humulene, and β-farnesene, each contributing distinct sensory profiles. These compounds are not unique to cannabis; they appear widely in hops, black pepper, and other botanicals. Understanding sesquiterpene diversity helps breeders predict aroma stability across growing conditions and generational stability in seed lines.
Sesquiterpene strains
No strains tagged into Sesquiterpene yet — they'll appear here as breeders submit lineage records under this family.
Sesquiterpenes are a large class of volatile organic compounds found across cannabis chemotypes, characterized by a 15-carbon skeleton (C15H24). They form via the sequential combination of three isoprene units and are responsible for many secondary aromas in mature cannabis flowers—often described as woody, herbal, earthy, or spicy notes. Major sesquiterpenes in cannabis include β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, α-humulene, and β-farnesene, each contributing distinct sensory profiles. These compounds are not unique to cannabis; they appear widely in hops, black pepper, and other botanicals. Understanding sesquiterpene diversity helps breeders predict aroma stability across growing conditions and generational stability in seed lines.
Breeders monitor sesquiterpene ratios as secondary markers for phenotype consistency and stability across harvest cycles. Sesquiterpene expression is often environment-sensitive, making strains with stable sesquiterpene chemotypes valuable for commercial line development and seed-stock preservation.
Educational reference · Cultivar metadata only · No medical claims