Most people can spot the two main parts of the cannabis plant, the stem and the easily recognizable leaves, but there is much more to the cannabis plant than meets the eye.  Here’s everything to know about the anatomy of the cannabis plant and why each part is important.

Roots

The cannabis plant grows from the soil, starting from the seed that transforms into the taproot, also known as the main root, and later branches out into a complex root system. The main purpose of roots is to draw water from the soil, transporting it to the rest of the plant. 

Plant Stem

Stems or main stalks come straight from the roots, growing upright. They are important for giving the cannabis plant structure and stability, connecting the roots, branches, and other parts of the cannabis plant.

Branches and Nodes

Cannabis branches form from the main stem and hold the leaves and flowers. Nodes are the connecting points between branches and the main stem.

Leaves

Leaves are the most recognizable part of the cannabis plant, becoming a globally recognizable symbol for cannabis culture. Cannabis leaves are divided into ”fingers”, taking a specific form depending on the plant’s genetics. There are several types of leaves that can be found on the cannabis plant, including fan leaves and sugar leaves.

Fan Leaves

Sativa and indica plants have specific physical differences. Sativa leaves are longer and leaner, and usually have more leaves per branch, compared to indica, which has wider and thicker leaves but fewer leaves per branch. Sativa plants can have from 9 to 13 ”fingers” per leaf, while indica plants usually have between 5 and 7 ”fingers” per leaf.

Sugar Leaves

Sugar leaves are small leaves coated in trichomes that can be found around the cannabis flower. They can be harvested as ”trim” and used for various cannabis products due to the trichome content. They blend in with the other leaves on the cannabis plant, with their appearance being slightly smaller and thinner.

Trichomes

Trichomes are clear resin glands with a mushroom-like, crystal shape. They cover the surface of buds and sugar leaves. Their purpose is to produce cannabinoids like THC (the main psychoactive compound) and CBD, as well as terpenes, which give the cannabis plant a specific flavor and aroma.

Cannabis Flower

The cannabis flower, also known as ”bud”, contains cannabinoids and terpenes, two of the most important natural compounds of the cannabis plant. They grow on female cannabis plants, and are harvested, dried, and used for cannabis products.

Cola

Cola buds are formed at the top of a female cannabis plant. The term main cola usually refers to the largest bud at the very top of the plant.

Popcorn Buds

Popcorn buds are smaller buds that usually appear in the lower half of the cannabis plant. This can occur due to a poor light exposure compared to buds that are in the upper part of the plant.

Stigma and Pistil

Stigma and pistil are part of the reproductive system of the female cannabis plant. Stigmas are hair-like strands, while pistils are oval structures.

Cannabis Seeds

Seeds are often overlooked, but they are the beginning and the end of a cannabis plant. Seeds are produced by female plants and carry the specific cannabis genetics.  Cannabis plants can grow from seeds, which germinate into sprouts, but they can also grow from clones.

All parts of the cannabis plant are equally important, from the roots to the trichomes, even parts that are seemingly not visible. Find your nearest dispensary and explore the selection of cannabis products.