Identification of a New Chemotype in Cannabis sativa: Cannabigerol - Dominant Plants, Biogenetic and Agronomic Prospects

Abstract

Hemp, Cannabis sativa L., Cannabinaceae, is noteworthy for its complex and original chemical composition, comprising specific constituents (i.e. cannabinoids) whose relative contents are dependent on several genetic and environmental factors. As yet, three major chemotypes (chemical types) have been identified in this species. The present paper provides the description of a highly interesting, new, “fourth“ chemotype, whose very low content in Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) (0.001%) in contrast with the high amounts which occur in cannabigerol (CBG), its major cannabinoīd component. After a recall of CBG's position in the biosynthetic pathway of cannabinoīds, the possible inheritance schedule of this chemical trait is discussed.