Anthocyanin Profile

Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments belonging to the flavonoid family, responsible for red, purple, and blue coloration in cannabis flowers and leaves. Unlike volatile terpenes, anthocyanins are non-aromatic compounds synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway. Their expression is influenced by genetics, light exposure (particularly UV-B), temperature fluctuations, and soil pH. Cannabis cultivars with documented anthocyanin production are often selected for visual distinction in breeding programs. These pigments accumulate primarily in floral tissue and may indicate specific genetic backgrounds or environmental stress responses.

Breeders working toward purple or deeply pigmented phenotypes often select for anthocyanin-rich lineages, as visual markers can indicate stable genetic traits. Anthocyanin expression is sometimes used as a secondary selection criterion alongside cannabinoid and terpene profiles in structured breeding programs.