Phytochemical Inheritance

Phytochemical inheritance refers to the genetic transmission of secondary metabolites—including terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids—from parent plants to offspring. Cannabis breeders track heritable phytochemical profiles to predict offspring chemistry and stabilize desirable compound ratios across generations. Inheritance patterns for terpene expression vary; some terpenes show dominant or recessive traits, while others display polygenic control across multiple loci. Understanding phytochemical inheritance requires multi-generational documentation and chemical testing, as environmental conditions also influence final metabolite concentrations. This knowledge forms the foundation of modern cannabis strain development and seed-line stabilization.

Breeders use phytochemical inheritance mapping to select parent plants with stable, reproducible terpene profiles and to predict offspring chemistry without waiting for full plant maturation. Consistent phytochemical expression across seed generations is a key marker of strain stability and breed-true genetics.