Cannabis Glossary
A-Z dictionary of cannabis terms, from autoflower to trichome.
A
Autoflower
Cannabis plants that flower based on age rather than light cycle changes. Typically ready to harvest in 8-12 weeks from seed.
B
Bioavailability
The percentage of a substance that enters circulation and produces an active effect. Varies by consumption method: smoking ~30%, edibles ~15%.
C
Cannabinoid
Chemical compounds in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. Includes THC, CBD, CBN, CBG, and 100+ others.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
The second most abundant cannabinoid. Non-psychoactive with anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and anti-seizure properties.
Clone
A genetically identical cutting taken from a mother plant. Clones preserve the exact genetics, ensuring consistency across grows.
Cola
The main flower cluster that forms at the top of the plant. Also called the 'bud site' — larger colas indicate a healthy, well-fed plant.
Cultivar
The correct botanical term for what is commonly called a 'strain.' Refers to a cultivated variety of cannabis with specific characteristics.
D
Decarboxylation
The process of heating cannabis to convert THCA into active THC. Required for edibles. Occurs automatically when smoking or vaping.
E
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
A biological system in all mammals that regulates mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. Cannabis compounds interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in this system.
Entourage Effect
The theory that all cannabis compounds work synergistically. The combined effect of cannabinoids + terpenes + flavonoids is greater than any single compound.
F
Feminized Seeds
Seeds bred to produce only female plants (which produce flowers/buds). Eliminates the need to identify and remove male plants.
Flowering Time
The period from when a plant begins to flower until harvest. Typically 7-12 weeks for photoperiod strains.
Full Spectrum
An extract that contains all of the plant's cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds. Considered superior to isolates due to the entourage effect.
G
Genotype
The genetic code of a cannabis plant. Determines potential characteristics, but environmental factors (phenotype) determine actual expression.
I
Indica
A cannabis subspecies known for shorter, bushier plants with broad leaves. Generally associated with relaxing, body-focused effects.
K
Kief
The collection of trichome heads that separate from cannabis flowers. Rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. Can be pressed into hash.
L
Landrace
An original, indigenous cannabis strain from a specific geographic region. Examples: Afghan Kush, Thai, Colombian Gold, Durban Poison.
M
Microdose
Taking very small amounts of cannabis (typically 1-2.5mg THC) to achieve subtle therapeutic effects without significant intoxication.
P
Phenotype
The physical expression of a plant's genetics as influenced by its environment. Same genotype can produce different phenotypes under different conditions.
Photoperiod
Plants that begin flowering in response to changes in light cycle (typically 12 hours light / 12 hours dark). Most traditional cannabis strains are photoperiod.
Pistil
The hair-like structures on cannabis flowers. Start white and darken to orange/brown as the plant matures. Used as one indicator of harvest readiness.
R
Ruderalis
A subspecies of cannabis originating from Central Asia. Small, auto-flowering plants. Used in breeding autoflower hybrids.
S
Sativa
A cannabis subspecies known for taller plants with narrow leaves and longer flowering times. Generally associated with uplifting, cerebral effects.
T
Terpene
Aromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants) that contribute to flavor, aroma, and effects. Over 200 terpenes identified in cannabis.
THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Produces euphoria, pain relief, appetite stimulation, and altered perception.
Trichome
Tiny, mushroom-shaped glandular structures on cannabis flowers that produce cannabinoids and terpenes. Visible as a frosty coating on buds.