Trichome
Category: Cultivation · Level: Intermediate
Trichomes are microscopic, hair-like glands on the cannabis plant's surface that produce and store cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Trichomes are epidermal outgrowths on cannabis flowers and nearby leaves. There are three types in cannabis: bulbous, capitate-sessile, and capitate-stalked trichomes. Capitate-stalked trichomes are the largest and most visible — they appear as crystalline structures on mature flower and are responsible for the majority of cannabinoid and terpene production. Trichome density and development are key quality indicators for breeders and cultivators. Trichome rupture or degradation (from heat, light, agitation, or oxidation) leads to loss of potency and aroma. Live resin and ice water hash extraction are designed to preserve trichome integrity.
Also known as
Crystal, Kief source
Usage
- Cultivation
- Industrial
Related terms
- Resin — Cannabis resin is a sticky, glandular secretion produced by trichomes on the cannabis plant, rich in cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Kief — Kief refers to the loose, powdery trichome crystals that separate from cannabis flower, high in cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Live Resin — Live resin is a cannabis concentrate made from freshly harvested, flash-frozen plant material to preserve the full terpene and cannabinoid profile.
- Potency — Potency in cannabis refers to the concentration of cannabinoids, particularly THC, typically expressed as a percentage of dry weight.