Capitate-Stalked Trichome
Definition
A glandular secretory trichome with a multicellular stalk and a large secretory head densely concentrated on female flower bracts. The primary site of cannabinoid biosynthesis.
- Structure
- Glandular trichome with a multicellular stalk
- Concentration
- Female flower bracts
- Function
- Primary site of cannabinoid biosynthesis
- Plant
- Cannabis
Common questions
Why are capitate-stalked trichomes the focus of cannabinoid potency testing?+
Because they carry the largest secretory heads and the highest concentration on flowering female bracts, they account for the majority of a plant's THC and other cannabinoid content, making their density and maturity a strong indicator of potency.
How does trichome colour relate to plant maturity in forensic or cultivation examination?+
The trichome heads typically shift from clear to cloudy to amber as the plant matures and cannabinoid and terpene profiles change, a visual cue examiners and cultivators use alongside microscopy to judge harvest stage or plant maturity.
Related terms
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- Cystolith Hair
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- Serrate Leaf Margin
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