From the head to the roots, every part of the cannabis plant has a role to play. This can be in terms of its effects, but also its nutritional benefits. With a complete understanding of the anatomy of cannabis, you will gain a better understanding of the magic of this plant.
The head, or rather the cannabis flower
The top, often referred to as the head or flower of the cannabis plant, is the most valuable part of the plant. This is where everything happens: the flowers grow and concentrate substances in these dense , fragrant buds , rich in pollen.
In fact, the bud will grow upwards, forming a mass at the top but also producing smaller and smaller leaves down towards the bud. These leaves are called sugar leaves. They are just as rich in trichomes and sticky as the bud.
Because these leaves are not just for decoration, they also contribute to the production of cannabinoids and give the flowers their "sweet" and aromatic flavor.
At the head level, we also find trichomes, those small shiny crystals that cover the flowers and sugar leaves. They produce molecules such as THC, CBD, and terpenes, which are responsible for the smell, taste, and effects of cannabis.
As you will have understood, the bud is the heart of the plant, where all the cannabinoids are concentrated, as well as the effects and flavors, which vary depending on the variety.
Seeds and leaves: their unexpected benefits
You may think that cannabis leaves and seeds are useless, but they are actually packed with superpowers. The large palmate leaves are the star-shaped ones that make cannabis easily identifiable.
The anatomy of a leaf consists of three distinct parts:
- the visible flattened surface called the blade,
- a network of veins that serve as conduits for water and nutrients,
- and the petiole that forms the connection with the stem.
These organs perform a vital function by carrying out photosynthesis to convert light into energy while enabling the gas exchange necessary for plant respiration and healthy growth.
The leaves and seeds can be processed into vegetable oil rich in essential fatty acids and omegas. They can be used to make super nutritious hemp oil, which is good for the skin and for eating. Even the leaves can be used to make infusions that offer digestive benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC.
The reproductive basics of cannabis
To understand the anatomy of cannabis, you need to know its reproductive basics. The cannabis plant can be male or female. Male plants produce pollen that fertilizes female flowers and creates seeds. Without males, there is no plant propagation or tasty buds.
Male flowers are often more discreet, less sticky, and grouped in clusters. Their purpose is not to produce cannabinoids, but simply to release pollen to ensure the survival of the species.
Female flowers are buds covered with trichomes and small leaves. They also produce seeds when pollinated. Female flowers are widely cultivated to enjoy the effects of cannabis.
There are about a hundred varieties of plants, and they all have their own characteristics, flavors, and effects.
In summary, males are used to spread pollen, while females are used to produce seeds and active compounds. Understanding this difference is essential, whether for cultivation or simply to learn more about cannabis. You can then try out all the products available in our catalog and make an informed choice.