What are trichomes?

Cannabis is an amazing and complex plant that has endless benefits. Each part of the plant is integral to its development and the benefits it provides. Trichomes serve multiple and important functions in not just cannabis, but in many plants and algae found in nature.

While generally invisible to the naked eye, trichomes are a powerhouse for cannabis plants. From the Greek “trikoma”, meaning “to cover with hair”, these small, filament-like growths are found all over the epidermal surfaces of the plant, but mostly concentrated on the flower and upper leaves. Cannabis plants produce many trichomes along the surface of leaves and flowers, giving the buds their crystalline-looking, frosty coating.

One of their main jobs is to serve as a defense mechanism, protecting the plant against pathogens, pests, and environmental pollutants. The densely packed crystalline-like structures produce a sticky, acidic oil that gives off a bitter taste as the first line of defense against insects and plant-eating animals. This wet, sticky substance is toxic to some insects, but it also promotes pollination.

The trichomes not only protect the plant but facilitate the production of hundreds of compounds that make cannabis plants as dynamic and nuanced as they are. The resin produced by trichomes contains the active compounds that provide cannabis with its signature experiential and therapeutic benefits. Products like hash, shatter, and concentrates can only be created by these resin glands.

Trichomes are also essential in determining the correct time to harvest. Throughout their life cycle, trichomes are clear. Closer to harvest, they turn a milky white. Once harvest is imminent, trichomes will be a mix of milky white and amber. If your trichomes are turning brown, harvest immediately as they are past their prime and will start to drop potency.

Types of trichomes

Trichomes are found in two forms-glandular and non-glandular, each serving a specific function.

Non-glandular trichomes appear in young plants and look like small hairs. They can be found on the branches, leaves, and petioles (the stalks that join the leaves to the stem). Non-glandular trichomes do not produce cannabinoids or terpenes, and their main job is to block UV rays and protect against insects and pests. They do, however, assist in preventing fungal infections like mold.

Glandular trichomes can produce cannabinoids and terpenes and can be found in three forms.

• Bulbous trichomes: These trichomes are naked to the invisible eye, measuring in at about 10 microns in size. They are a resin-secreting gland that sits on a short supporting stalk. As it swells, the trichome sometimes forms a small bulbous protrusion at the top of the membrane. These are the trichomes responsible for making the plant’s leaves shiny and flowers sticky. They assist in the protection of UV rays and are a warning system for plants of pests and insects. Bulbous trichomes also have a unique ability to help plants keep their water near the surface in windy or low humidity conditions, as well as synthesize both cannabinoids and terpenes.
• Capitate-Sessile trichomes: These trichomes are slightly larger than bulbous trichomes, measuring about 75 microns in size, and covering the plant more densely than bulbous trichomes. Due to their slightly larger size, they are visible under magnification. They produce significant amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes throughout the entire life cycle and are the 2nd most common form of trichome found in the leaves, stems, and brachs (modified or specialized leaves found above leaves, but below the flower).
• Capitate-stalked trichomes: These are the most abundant trichomes found in cannabis plants and they are packed with oils and copious amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes. The structure consists of a stalk and waxy head that are visible to the naked eye. They begin growing during the flowering phase and completely coat the area in and around the protective outer layer of small leaves that surround buds as they develop. They not only protect the plant, but they facilitate the production of hundreds of compounds that make the cannabis plant as dynamic as it is, such as CBD and THC.

As we have been learning, the cannabis plant is a fascinating and complex creature that has endless benefits. Trichomes are just one small part of the structure that provides crucial protection and the effects that we know and love. Those gorgeous, sticky hairs are more than just pretty, they serve many integral purposes in our favorite plant.

Must. be 21+. Please consume responsibly.