Understanding Cannabis Flower Coloration: Genetics, Environmental Factors, and Significance
We are back with more weed content. Maybe by tomorrow I will be able to think about wine again. That bottling run really ran me ragged. I still don’t want to think about wine today. Instead, we are going to talk about the color of cannabis flower. Cannabis flower ranges in color between different shades of green, with shades of orange, purple, red, or even blue. Each of these color variations contributes to the flower's aesthetic appeal and potential potency. Color can also be a sign of the plant's maturity as we learned in yesterday's article on Pistils. The color of cannabis is influenced by a variety of factors, each of which carries its own significance. Let’s get into it.
Genetics and Anthocyanins:
The genetics of a given cannabis strain greatly impact the color of its flower. One of the primary compounds responsible for the diverse colors found in cannabis is anthocyanins. This is the same color compound found in wine grapes, which is responsible for the color extracted during red wine fermentation. Anthocyanins in cannabis can produce a range of colors ranging from red to blue to purple depending on the pH level found in the plant's environment. Some strains, like Granddaddy Purple and Blue Dream, have a greater disposition for high anthocyanin levels and often display blue or purple hues as a result.
Growing Conditions and Environmental Factors:
Environmental factors, like temperature, light exposure, and nutrient availability, also significantly impact the coloration of cannabis flower. Cooler nighttime temperatures, for example, can greatly enhance the expression of anthocyanins, leading to more pronounced purple or blue tones. This is why outdoor flower might display more vibrant colors compared to pot that is grown indoors where conditions are strictly controlled.
Trichomes:
We have an article explaining trichomes in greater depth. They contain cannabinoids and terpenes which contribute to marijuana’s effects and aromas. Trichomes, as they mature, turn from a white color to more amber. Harvesting flower at its optimal maturity is important for maximizing its desired effects.
Carotenoids and Chlorophyll:
Carotenoids and Chlorophyll also greatly contribute to the color of the cannabis plant. Carotenoids lend to the orange, red, and yellow hues found in strains like Orange bud and Red Dragon. Chlorophyll, the green pigment crucial for photosynthesis, can be diminished in lower light conditions allowing other pigments to show more visibly.
Conclusion:
Alright class, Let’s talk about what we learned today. The color of cannabis flower is greatly impacted by a series of several factors. The color of the flower is a great indicator of the plant’s health and its maturity level at the time of harvest. The vibrancy of different colors can tell you a lot about the plant’s genetics and the conditions in which it was grown.
