Why Cannabis Differs So Much: Genotype, Phenotype, and Chemotype

01. 03. 2026

It happens that you discover such a good cannabis strain that you can't help but want to grow it over and over again. However, many growers often notice that plants from the same strain are ultimately so different that one would not even say they are from the same strain. The terms genotype and phenotype are used to explain these differences between strains, but do you know what they mean? Understanding cannabis genetics can be very complex. Many growers often use the words genotype and phenotype incorrectly. We are here to clarify the uncertainties regarding genotypes, phenotypes, and chemotypes. First, we will explain these terms to you, then focus on how they are interconnected and show the differences between them.

What is a Cannabis Genotype?

Genotype represents a specific combination of genes that each cannabis plant is equipped with. The genotype is the genetic code that carries all genetic information related to growth, appearance, and all properties that can be observed later. The cannabis genotype is the key to understanding the genetic potential of a given strain.

What is a Cannabis Phenotype?

Phenotype indicates how cannabis plants of the same strain differ from each other in their physical properties, such as shape, color, aroma, and yield. Phenotypes are the result of an interaction between the plant's genetic makeup and the environment where it is grown. Just because seeds come from the same mother plants does not mean they contain the same genetic information. The environment where the plant grows affects the development of certain properties. The result of the interaction between the genetic code and the environment is the so-called plant phenotype.

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