Trichomes are the tiny resin glands on the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. They produce active compounds like THC and CBD, as well as terpenes. They are the plant's true treasure – so small that they are only perceived as a glittering coating.
What exactly are trichomes?
Trichomes look like tiny, sparkling hairs with a head. It is precisely in this head that the resin containing cannabinoids and terpenes is located. The shimmering, often sticky coating on good flowers consists of countless such glands.
What types of trichomes are there?
- Stalked capitate trichomes – the largest and most potent.
- Sessile capitate trichomes – smaller, also resinous.
- Hair trichomes – without a head, hardly potent.
Why are trichomes so important?
Because they practically contain all of the plant's effects and aroma. When you collect kief or make hashish, you are essentially separating nothing more than the trichomes from the plant material. Even with concentrates, the goal is always to extract this resin as purely as possible.
Trichomes as a sign of maturity
Experienced growers recognize the plant's ripeness by the color of the trichomes: The color shifts from clear to milky to amber during maturation. This observation is an important indicator in plant science.
Frequently asked questions
Are trichomes the same as kief?
Not quite – kief consists of detached trichomes. The trichomes themselves are on the plant.
Why do good flowers sparkle?
Because of the many trichomes that reflect light.
Can you see trichomes with the naked eye?
As a glittering coating, yes, but the details can only be seen with a magnifying glass.
What does the trichome color indicate?
It is an indication of ripeness – from clear to milky to amber.
Where are most trichomes located?
On the flowers, particularly densely around the petals.
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