The cannabis plant is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is often referred to as marijuana or hemp, depending on its level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. The cannabis plant has a number of different parts, including:
- Roots: The roots of the cannabis plant anchor it to the ground and absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
- Stems: The stem of the cannabis plant supports the plant and transports water and nutrients throughout the plant.
- Leaves: The cannabis plant has distinctive, fan-like leaves that are divided into smaller leaflets. The leaves are responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which the plant converts sunlight into energy.
- Flowers: The female cannabis plant produces flowers, also known as buds, which contain high levels of THC and other cannabinoids. The flowers are typically dried and used to make marijuana.
- Seeds: The cannabis plant produces seeds, which are used to propagate the plant or for food and other products.
- Trichomes: Trichomes are small, mushroom-shaped glands on the surface of the cannabis plant that produce and contain THC and other cannabinoids.
- Resin: Resin is a sticky, thick substance produced by trichomes that contains high levels of THC and other cannabinoids. It is often collected and used to make concentrates and other products.