Terpene Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene (β-caryophyllene) is a sesquiterpene commonly detected across cannabis, hops, cloves, and black pepper. In cannabis breeding records, caryophyllene frequently appears in cultivars descended from OG Kush, Sour Diesel, and Hash Plant lineages. This compound is one of few cannabis terpenes documented to interact with CB2 cannabinoid receptors, distinguishing it structurally from monoterpenes like limonene or myrcene. Breeders working with caryophyllene-dominant genetics often target cultivars selected for spicy, peppery, or woody aroma profiles. Its presence is typically measured via gas chromatography during strain analysis and preservation studies.

Breeders value caryophyllene as a marker terpene in phenotype selection and lineage verification, particularly when stabilizing peppery or fuel-type aromatics. Caryophyllene-rich cultivars are often crossed to maintain this compound's abundance across generations while pursuing other target traits.