⚠️ Disclaimer: This glossary is provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or legal advice. Cannabis laws vary by jurisdiction – always check your local laws.
A comprehensive reference for cannabis-related terminology. Terms are organized alphabetically for easy lookup. Internal links point to detailed pages throughout CannaGrow.
11-Hydroxy-THC – A potent psychoactive metabolite of THC produced when the liver processes ingested cannabis. Responsible for the stronger, longer-lasting effects of edibles compared to inhaled cannabis. See cannabinoids.
AFG – Abbreviation for "Afghani," a pure indica landrace strain from Afghanistan. See Afghani.
Air Stone – A porous stone used in hydroponic reservoirs to diffuse air into the nutrient solution, maintaining dissolved oxygen levels.
Amendment – Organic or inorganic material added to soil to improve structure, drainage, nutrient content, or microbial life. Examples: compost, perlite, worm castings, bat guano.
Anandamide – An endocannabinoid naturally produced in the body. Known as the "bliss molecule," it binds to CB1 receptors similarly to THC.
Anther – The pollen-producing part of the male cannabis flower.
Apical Meristem – The growing tip of a cannabis plant where auxin concentration is highest. Removed during topping.
Autoflower – Cannabis plants that automatically transition from vegetative growth to flowering based on age, not light cycle. Derived from Cannabis ruderalis. Typically smaller plants with faster life cycles (60-80 days seed to harvest).
Auxin – A plant hormone concentrated at growing tips that promotes upward growth. Redistribution of auxin is the mechanism behind LST (low-stress training).
Bag Appeal – The visual attractiveness of cannabis buds, including density, trichome coverage, color, and structure. Important for commercial valuation.
Banger – A type of quartz or titanium nail used for dabbing, typically with a flat bottom and angled neck. Heated with a torch or e-nail. See Dabbing.
BHO – Butane Hash Oil, a concentrate made by passing liquid butane through cannabis material. Types include shatter, wax, budder, and crumble. ⚠️ Dangerous to produce without professional closed-loop equipment. See Bho Pho.
Biodynamic – An organic farming philosophy that treats the farm as a self-sustaining ecosystem. Goes beyond organic by incorporating specific preparations and timing based on lunar/astronomical cycles.
Bract – The small, leaf-like structures that make up the bulk of a cannabis bud. They contain the highest concentration of trichomes on the female plant.
Bubble Hash – Ice-water hash extracted using bubble bags. Named for the bubbling sound it makes when vaporized (high-quality hash bubbles; low-quality crackles). See Ice Water Hash.
Bud – The flowering part of the female cannabis plant, rich in trichomes containing cannabinoids and terpenes. The primary consumable product.
Bud Rot – Common name for botrytis cinerea, a fungal disease that causes buds to decay from the inside. Thrives in high humidity. See Pests Diseases.
Buds – Slang term for cannabis flowers.
Cali – Short for California, often used to describe cannabis from or styled after California's cannabis culture.
Cali-Organs – Organic cultivation methods popular in California, emphasizing living soil and natural inputs.
Calyx – The tear-shaped structure at the base of each female cannabis flower that houses the ovule. If pollinated, it develops seeds.
Cannabis Indica – One of the primary subspecies of Cannabis sativa. Typically shorter, bushier plants with broader leaves. Traditionally associated with relaxing effects, though modern research shows effects are determined by chemical profile, not subspecies classification.
Cannabis Ruderalis – A subspecies native to Central/Eastern Europe and Russia. Notable for autoflowering genetics. Low THC, rarely used recreationally on its own.
Cannabis Sativa – The species encompassing all cannabis types. As a subspecies, sativa plants are typically taller and narrower with thinner leaves. Traditionally associated with energizing effects, though effects depend on cannabinoid and terpene profiles. See cannabinoids and terpenes.
Canopy – The upper layer of plant foliage in a grow. Managing an even canopy is important for light distribution and yield.
Carb Cap – A cap placed over a dab banger to restrict airflow, allowing vaporization at lower temperatures and improving flavor and efficiency. See Dabbing.
Carboxylation – See [[#Decarboxylation]].
Caryophyllene – A terpene with a peppery, spicy aroma found in cannabis and black pepper. Notably binds to CB2 receptors directly. See terpenes.
CBD (Cannabidiol) – The second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis. Non-intoxicating, with extensive research into therapeutic applications including anxiety, inflammation, and seizures. See cannabinoids.
CBG (Cannabigerol) – Known as the "mother cannabinoid" because THCA and CBDA both derive from CBGA. Non-intoxicating with potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. See cannabinoids.
CBN (Cannabinol) – A degradation product of THC, formed as cannabis ages or is exposed to heat and light. Mildly psychoactive with potential sedating properties. See cannabinoids.
Certified – In regulated markets, indicates cannabis that has passed required testing for potency, pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial contaminants.
Chemdawg – A legendary, highly influential cannabis strain whose own genetics remain mysterious. Parent of many famous strains including Sour Diesel and OG Kush.
Chemotype – The chemical profile of a cannabis plant (cannabinoid and terpene ratios). More meaningful than indica/sativa classification for predicting effects.
Chimera – A plant with two or more distinct genetic tissues, sometimes resulting in unusual growth patterns or leaf variegation.
Chlorophyll – Green pigment responsible for photosynthesis. Present in fresh cannabis and broken down during curing. Excess chlorophyll causes harsh smoke and grassy taste.
COA – Certificate of Analysis. A lab test report showing the cannabinoid and contaminant profile of a cannabis product. Always check COAs when purchasing in regulated markets.
Cola – The main bud cluster at the top of a cannabis plant (also called the "top cola" or "main cola"). Multiple colas develop on branch sites.
Cold Cure – A rosin curing technique using low temperatures over extended periods to achieve desired consistency while preserving terpenes. See Live Rosin.
Colloidal – A suspension of fine particles in a liquid. In cannabis, sometimes refers to infused beverages.
Concentrate – Any cannabis extract with elevated cannabinoid levels compared to raw flower. Includes hash, rosin, BHO, distillate, and more. See Extraction.
Conduction – A heating method where material directly contacts a heated surface. Used in some vaporizers. Less even than convection. See Vaporizing.
Convection – A heating method where hot air passes through cannabis material. Used in higher-quality vaporizers for more even heating. See Vaporizing.
Cotton Mouth – Slang for dry mouth, a common side effect of THC consumption. THC temporarily affects saliva production.
CO₂ Extraction – Using supercritical or subcritical carbon dioxide as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. Industry-standard for large-scale, clean extraction. See Co2.
Cross – A hybrid created by breeding two different strains or varieties.
Cure – The controlled drying process after initial drying that breaks down remaining chlorophyll, develops flavor, and preserves terpenes. Typically 2-8 weeks in sealed containers with periodic burping. See Cure Store.
Cutting – A piece of plant material removed for cloning.
Dab – A dose of cannabis concentrate vaporized on a hot surface (nail or banger). See Dabbing.
Dabbing – The act of consuming cannabis concentrates by vaporizing them on a heated surface and inhaling. See Dabbing.
Damp – Slang for low-quality, improperly dried cannabis with excess moisture.
Dank – Slang for high-quality, potent, and aromatic cannabis buds.
Decarboxylation (Decarb) – The process of applying heat to cannabis to convert acidic cannabinoids (THCA → THC, CBDA → CBD) into their active forms. Required for edibles and tinctures. Typically 220-245°F for 25-40 minutes. See cannabinoids.
DWC (Deep Water Culture) – A hydroponic method where plant roots are suspended in oxygenated nutrient solution. One of the simplest hydroponic setups. See Hydroponics.
Defoliation – Removing fan leaves from a cannabis plant to improve light penetration and air circulation. Can be done during veg or early flower.
Dioecious – Having separate male and female plants. Cannabis is naturally dioecious, though hermaphroditic plants can occur.
Distillate – Highly purified cannabis extract (typically 90-99%+ cannabinoids) produced through fractional distillation. Flavorless and versatile. See Distillate.
Down-Regulation – The process by which CB1 receptors become less responsive with chronic THC use, leading to tolerance. Reversible with abstinence.
Dry Farm – Growing cannabis outdoors without irrigation, relying on natural rainfall. Produces smaller but often more potent plants.
Dry Trim – Trimming fan leaves and sugar leaves from cannabis after the drying process (as opposed to wet trim). Generally produces better final quality.
Dry Sift – A solventless extraction method using screens to separate trichomes from plant material. See Dry Sift Kief.
E-Nail – An electronically controlled dab nail that maintains a set temperature. Eliminates the need for a butane torch. See Dabbing.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS) – A complex cell-signaling system found throughout the body, comprising CB1 and CB2 receptors, endocannabinoids (anandamide, 2-AG), and enzymes. Regulates homeostasis, mood, pain, appetite, sleep, and more.
Entourage Effect – The theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically to produce effects greater than any individual compound alone. Supported by some research but still being actively studied. See terpenes.
Ester – A chemical compound formed from an acid and alcohol. Some terpenes are esters.
Ethanol Extraction – Using food-grade ethanol as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. Safe, efficient, and scalable. See Ethanol.
Extraction – Any process that separates cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plant material. See Extraction.
F1 – The first generation offspring from a cross of two parent strains.
Fan Leaves – The large, iconic cannabis leaves with multiple serrated fingers. Low in cannabinoids but useful for juicing, composting, or extraction.
FIMing – "F**k I Missed" – A high-stress training technique similar to topping but removing ~75% of the growing tip, producing 4+ new colas instead of 2. See Training.
Flowering (Bloom) – The second major growth stage of cannabis, triggered by 12 hours of light/12 hours of darkness (for photoperiod plants). Plants produce buds during this stage. Typically 7-14 weeks depending on strain.
Flowering Time – The number of weeks a photoperiod strain requires to complete its flowering stage. Autoflowers are measured seed-to-harvest instead.
Full Melt – Ice-water hash of such quality that it completely liquefies when vaporized, leaving minimal residue. The highest quality grade (5-6 star). See Ice Water Hash.
Full-Spectrum – A cannabis extract containing the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds as they naturally occur. Contrasted with distillate (isolated cannabinoids).
GMO – In cannabis, sometimes refers to the strain "GMO Cookies" (Garlic Cookies), not genetically modified organisms. Cannabis is not commercially available as a GMO crop.
Grinder – A device used to break apart cannabis buds into smaller, uniform pieces for consumption. Often includes a kief collection chamber.
Grow Tent – A reflective, enclosed tent designed for indoor cannabis cultivation. Provides light-proof environment and simplifies climate control. See Indoor.
Hash / Hashish – A concentrated cannabis product made from compressed trichomes. One of the oldest forms of cannabis concentrate. See Dry Sift Kief and Ice Water Hash.
Hash Oil – Liquid cannabis extract. Can be produced by various methods (BHO, ethanol, CO₂). See Extraction.
Headband – A sensation described by some users as pressure around the head, associated with certain high-THC strains like OG Kush.
Hemp – Cannabis containing 0.3% or less THC by dry weight (US definition under the 2018 Farm Bill). Grown for fiber, seeds, and CBD. Legally distinct from marijuana in many jurisdictions.
Hermaphrodite (Hermie) – A cannabis plant that develops both male and female reproductive organs, usually due to stress. Can self-pollinate and seed its own buds.
High-Stress Training (HST) – Cultivation techniques that intentionally wound the plant to alter growth patterns. Includes topping, FIMing, super-cropping, and main-lining. See Training.
Homeostasis – The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions. The endocannabinoid system plays a key regulatory role.
HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) – A type of HID lighting with a strong red/orange spectrum, traditionally the standard for cannabis flowering. Being replaced by LEDs. See Lighting.
Humulene – A terpene with an earthy, hoppy aroma found in cannabis and hops. Potential appetite suppressant and anti-inflammatory. See terpenes.
Hybrid – A cannabis strain derived from two or more distinct genetic backgrounds. Most modern strains are hybrids. See [[strains]].
Hydroponics – Growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water as the growing medium. Includes DWC, ebb & flow, drip systems, NFT, and aeroponics. See Hydroponics.
Hygrometer – A device that measures relative humidity. Essential for monitoring drying and curing environments.
Indica – See [[#Cannabis Indica]]. Also shorthand for cannabis with relaxing, body-focused effects, though this classification is increasingly recognized as imprecise.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – A holistic approach to pest control emphasizing prevention, monitoring, biological controls, and targeted treatment as a last resort. See Pests Diseases.
In Vitro – Laboratory propagation of plant tissue in sterile culture. Used for disease-free cloning and preservation.
Jam – A rosin curing technique that produces a wet, saucy consistency by heating rosin and then rapidly cooling it. See Live Rosin.
Keef – Alternate spelling of [[#Kief]].
Kief – The resinous trichome heads that fall off cannabis flowers, often collected in grinder chambers. Can be pressed into hash or sprinkled on flower. See Dry Sift Kief.
Kush – Originally referred to landrace indica strains from the Hindu Kush mountain region. Now a broad term used in many strain names.
Landrace – A strain that developed naturally in a specific geographic region over centuries without intentional breeding. Examples: Durban Poison, Afghani, Hindu Kush, Acapulco Gold, Malawi Gold.
Lec – See [[#CMH/LEC]].
LED (Light Emitting Diode) – Modern grow lighting technology offering high efficiency, low heat output, and tunable spectra. Now the recommended choice for indoor cannabis cultivation. See Lighting.
Limiter – A nutrient that is present in the lowest relative amount, limiting plant growth (Liebig's Law of the Minimum).
Limonene – A terpene with a citrus aroma found in cannabis and citrus rinds. Associated with mood elevation and stress relief. See terpenes.
Living Soil – A cultivation approach using biologically active soil amended with beneficial microorganisms, fungi, and organic nutrients rather than synthetic mineral nutrients.
Low-Stress Training (LST) – Cultivation techniques that bend and manipulate plant growth without cutting or wounding. Includes tying branches and ScrOG. See Training.
Lux – A unit of light illuminance. Sometimes used to measure grow light intensity, though PPFD is more relevant for plants.
Main-Lining – A high-stress training technique creating a symmetrical plant with multiple equal colas. Involves topping and LST to create a manifold shape. See Training.
Male Plant – A cannabis plant that produces pollen-bearing flowers rather than buds. Males are typically removed from grow rooms to prevent pollination of females (which produces seeded buds).
Matrix – The substrate or medium in which plant roots grow (soil, coco coir, rockwool, water in hydroponics).
MH (Metal Halide) – A type of HID lighting with a blue-heavy spectrum, traditionally used for the vegetative stage. See Lighting.
Micron (µm) – One millionth of a meter. Used to measure trichome head size and screen mesh sizes in hash production.
Mother Plant – A mature female cannabis plant kept in vegetative growth to provide clones (cuttings) for successive grows. Ensures genetic consistency.
Myrcene – The most common terpene in cannabis, with an earthy, musky aroma reminiscent of cloves. Associated with relaxing effects. Found in hops, mangoes, and thyme. See terpenes.
NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) – A hydroponic system where a thin film of nutrient solution continuously flows over plant roots in channels. Less common for cannabis due to large root systems.
Node – The point on a cannabis plant stem where branches and leaves emerge.
NPK – The ratio of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in a fertilizer or nutrient formula. Cannabis requires different NPK ratios during vegetative (higher N) and flowering (higher P-K) stages. See Nutrients.
Nutrient Burn – Damage caused by overfeeding, typically visible as brown/yellow tips on leaves. See Nutrients.
Nutrient Lockout – A condition where plants cannot absorb nutrients despite their presence in the medium. Often caused by incorrect pH or salt buildup. See Nutrients.
OG – Originally "Ocean Grown" or "Original Gangster," commonly associated with OG Kush. Now used broadly to denote classic or original versions of strains.
Orchid Pot – A mesh pot sometimes used in hydroponic setups for cannabis.
PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) – The range of light wavelengths (400-700nm) that plants can use for photosynthesis. The key metric for evaluating grow lights. See Lighting.
Parasite – An organism that lives on or in a host organism and derives nutrients at the host's expense. Some cannabis pests are parasitic.
PC (Potted Clone) – A clone that has been rooted and established in a pot.
PCT – Post Cycle Therapy. Not typically applicable to cannabis, but sometimes used by commercial growers between cycles to reset the grow environment.
PD (Pathogen/Disease) – Abbreviation for plant pathogens and diseases affecting cannabis. See Pests Diseases.
PGR (Plant Growth Regulator) – Synthetic or natural substances that alter plant growth. Synthetic PGRs (like paclobutrazol) produce dense, hard buds but are potentially carcinogenic and banned in legal cannabis. Avoid.
pH – A measure of how acidic or alkaline a solution is on a scale of 0-14. Critical for cannabis nutrient uptake. Soil: 6.0-7.0, Hydroponics: 5.5-6.5. See Nutrients.
Phenotype – The observable characteristics of a cannabis plant resulting from the interaction of its genetics with the environment. Different phenotypes of the same strain can vary noticeably.
Photoperiod – Cannabis strains that flower in response to a change in light cycle (typically 18/6 → 12/12). Most cannabis strains are photoperiod-dependent. Contrasted with autoflowers.
PHO – Propane Hash Oil, similar to BHO but using propane as the solvent. Allows lower extraction temperatures. See Bho Pho.
Pinene – A terpene with a pine, fresh aroma. Potential bronchodilator and memory-enhancing effects. Found in pine needles and rosemary. See terpenes.
Pistil – The hair-like structures on female cannabis flowers that catch pollen. Initially white, turning orange/red/brown as the plant matures.
PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) – A measure of usable light (PAR) reaching a specific area per second, measured in µmol/m²/s. The most important metric for grow light intensity. See Lighting.
PPM (Parts Per Million) – A measurement of nutrient concentration in a solution. Used to monitor nutrient solution strength in hydroponics.
Pre-Flower – The early stage of flowering when cannabis plants first show sex (pistils on females, pollen sacs on males). Typically appears around week 3-4 of 12/12 light cycle.
QP – Slang for a quarter-pound (approximately 113 grams) of cannabis.
QWET (Quick Wash Ethanol Technique) – A small-scale ethanol extraction method using very short wash times (1-3 minutes) with frozen material and solvent to minimize chlorophyll extraction. See Ethanol.
Reclaim – The residual concentrate that builds up in dab rigs and vaporizers after use. Contains degraded cannabinoids and terpenes. Some re-dab it; others use it for edibles.
Resin – In cannabis, the sticky secretion from trichomes containing cannabinoids and terpenes. Also refers to the residue in pipes and bongs (not the same as fresh trichome resin).
Rhizosphere – The zone of soil surrounding plant roots, influenced by root exudates and associated microorganisms. Critical in living soil cultivation.
Rip-Off – A grow technique that aggressively stresses plants to increase resin production. Risky and can backfire.
Roo – Short for Ruderalis. See [[#Cannabis Ruderalis]].
Rosin – A solventless cannabis concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to flower, hash, or kief. Increasingly popular for its safety and full-spectrum quality. See Rosin Press and Live Rosin.
Ruderalis – See [[#Cannabis Ruderalis]].
S1 – The first selfed generation (a female plant pollinated by itself using a reversal agent). Used to preserve genetics.
Sativa – See [[#Cannabis Sativa]]. Also shorthand for cannabis with energizing, head-focused effects, though this classification is imprecise.
Screen of Green (ScrOG) – A low-stress training technique using a horizontal screen or net to spread the canopy evenly and maximize light exposure. See Training.
Sea of Green (SOG) – A cultivation method using many small plants with a single cola each, rather than fewer larger plants. Maximizes yield per square foot in commercial settings. See Training.
Secondary Metabolites – Organic compounds not directly involved in plant growth, reproduction, or development. Cannabinoids and terpenes are secondary metabolites.
Select – A superior phenotype chosen from a batch of seeds for its desirable traits.
Shatter – A type of BHO concentrate with a glass-like, translucent consistency. Named for the way it breaks (shatters) when handled. See Bho Pho.
Sinsemilla – Spanish for "without seeds." Refers to seedless female cannabis flowers produced by preventing pollination. Sinsemilla has higher cannabinoid levels than seeded buds.
Sking – The process of removing the outer layer of a cannabis stalk or stem.
Solvent – A substance (usually liquid) that dissolves another substance. In cannabis extraction, solvents like butane, ethanol, and CO₂ are used to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes.
Squash – Pressing cannabis flower or concentrate to compact it, sometimes with heat.
Super-Cropping – A high-stress training technique involving controlled damage to branches by pinching and bending them to create a flat canopy and increase yields. See Training.
Supercritical CO₂ – CO₂ heated and pressuried above its critical point, where it has properties of both a gas and a liquid. Acts as an effective solvent for cannabis extraction. See Co2.
Tabletop – A vaporizer large enough to sit on a table, typically with a fan that fills a bag with vapor. Examples: Volcano, Arizer Extreme Q.
Taming – Training a cannabis plant to grow in a desired shape using LST techniques.
Terp – Slang for terpene.
Terpene – Aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. Responsible for cannabis's diverse flavors and aromas and contribute to effects. See terpenes.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for the "high." Also has therapeutic properties including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anti-nausea effects. See cannabinoids.
THCA – The acidic precursor to THC. Found in raw, uncured cannabis. Non-psychoactive until decarboxylated by heat. See cannabinoids.
Therpenes – Misspelling of terpenes.
Topical – Cannabis-infused creams, lotions, balms, and salves applied to the skin for localized effects. Generally non-psychoactive. See Topicals.
Topping – A high-stress training technique where the top of the main stem is cut off to encourage two new main colas to develop. See Training.
Transdermal – A delivery method (typically a patch) that delivers cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream, producing systemic effects. Unlike topicals, transdermals can be psychoactive. See Topicals.
Trichome – Tiny, crystal-like resin glands on the surface of cannabis flowers and leaves. Contain the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes. Greek for "hairy growth."
Trim – The process of removing excess leaves from harvested cannabis buds. Sugar leaves (resin-covered) are often saved for extraction.
Trim Run – Cannabis material that includes both buds and trimmed leaves, as opposed to "bud run" (buds only).
Tropism – A plant's growth response to environmental stimuli (light, gravity, touch). Cannabis exhibits positive phototropism (growing toward light).
Tunnel – A type of small greenhouse used for cannabis cultivation.
Uncut – Concentrate that has not been adulterated with additives or cutting agents.
Underlighting – Placing lights beneath plants. Occasionally used in commercial settings to increase lower bud yield.
Vaporize / Vaporizing – Heating cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes as vapor without combustion. Produces fewer harmful byproducts than smoking. See Vaporizing.
Veg (Vegetative) – The growth stage of cannabis before flowering, characterized by leaf and stem development. Photoperiod plants require 18+ hours of light to remain in veg.
VPD (Vapor Pressure Deficit) – The difference between the amount of moisture in the air and the amount the air can hold at saturation. A more precise measure than RH alone for optimizing grow environment. See Environment.
Wax – A type of BHO concentrate with a soft, opaque, wax-like consistency. See Bho Pho.
Wet Trim – Trimming fan leaves and sugar leaves from cannabis immediately after harvest, before drying. Faster than dry trim but may result in slightly lower quality.
Winterization – A process of removing fats, lipids, and waxes from cannabis extract by dissolving in ethanol, freezing, and filtering. Required for some extraction methods before distillation.
Yield – The amount of harvestable cannabis produced by a plant or grow run. Typically measured in grams per plant or grams per watt of light.
(No common cannabis terms starting with Z beyond strain names like Zkittlez. See Zkittlez.)
This glossary is a living document and will be updated as cannabis terminology evolves. Suggest additions or corrections via the contribution process described on our [About CannaGrow] page.