Bract

A bract is a modified leaf structure that encloses the reproductive parts of the cannabis plant, playing a crucial role in protecting the flower.

Also called / Category:

No common synonyms / Plant, Botany & Anatomy

Key takeaways:

• Bracts protect the cannabis flower and contain high concentrations of trichomes.
• They are often mistaken for calyxes but are distinct parts of the plant.
• Bracts play a significant role in producing resin, which contains cannabinoids and offset-4 transition-colors hover:underline" title="Learn more about Terpenes">terpenes.

What it is / How it shows up:

You'll often hear about bracts in dispensaries or read about them in cannabis reviews. In the cannabis plant, bracts are small, leaf-like structures that surround the flowers, particularly the pistil. They are often covered in trichomes, which are tiny, hair-like structures that produce the plant's resin. This resin is rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, making bracts a valuable part of the plant. While they are sometimes confused with calyxes, bracts are larger and more prominent, usually appearing as layered, green structures around the flower.

How it’s measured or identified:

• Visual inspection: Recognizable by their green, leaf-like appearance around the flower.
• Trichome density: High trichome presence indicates healthy bracts.

Use in context:

• "The bract of this strain is full of resin, enhancing its potency."
• "Bracts protect the flower, ensuring it matures properly."
• "A dense layer of trichomes on the bract indicates high-quality cannabis."

Safety & compliance in Canada:

• Ensure cannabis products are purchased from legal, licensed dispensaries.
• Understand the THC content derived from trichome-rich bracts.

Related terms / See also:

• Calyx
• Pistil
• Trichome
• Resin
• Cola
• Sugar leaf
• Fan leaf
• Indica
• Sativa

FAQs:

Q: Do bracts contribute to the potency of cannabis?
A: Yes, bracts are covered with trichomes that produce resin, containing cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which contribute to the plant's potency.

Q: Can you differentiate between a bract and a calyx?
A: While both are part of the flower structure, bracts are larger and protect the reproductive parts, whereas calyxes are smaller and form the first part of the flower to develop.

Sources:

• Health Canada
• PubChem
• Botany textbooks