Terpenes
Terpenes are the aroma compounds that make one strain smell like lemons and another like pine or pepper. Here's what each one is, what it smells like, and which strains it shows up in.
Myrceneearthy, musky · leads in 34 strainsMyrcene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis, with an earthy, musky smell that has a hint of hops and ripe fruit.Caryophyllenepepper, spice · leads in 52 strainsCaryophyllene is a common cannabis terpene with a peppery, spicy, woody smell, the same molecule that gives black pepper part of its bite.Limonenecitrus · leads in 25 strainsLimonene is a terpene with a bright, zesty citrus smell, the same compound that makes orange and lemon peel smell the way they do.Linaloolfloral · leads in 1 strainLinalool is a floral terpene best known as the main scent in lavender, and it shows up in small amounts in some cannabis strains.Pinenepine, fresh · leads in 1 strainPinene is a terpene that smells like pine needles and fresh-cut conifers, and it's one of the most widespread aroma compounds in nature.Terpinoleneherbal, sweet · leads in 6 strainsTerpinolene is a fresh-smelling terpene with piney, floral and slightly citrus notes, found in plants like tea tree, lilac and apples.Humulenewoody, hoppyHumulene is an earthy, woody terpene that gives hops much of their aroma, and it often shows up in cannabis alongside caryophyllene.Ocimenesweet, herbalOcimene is a sweet, herbal terpene with citrus and woody notes, found in plants like basil and hops and used in perfume.Bisabololfloral, honeyBisabolol is a terpene best known from chamomile, with a soft, sweet floral smell that some people compare to honey and apples.Nerolidolwoody, floralNerolidol is a minor cannabis terpene with a woody smell, often compared to fresh bark, with softer floral and fruity hints.Farnesenegreen appleFarnesene is a terpene best known as the smell of green apple skins, with woody, herbal and sometimes citrusy notes.