It is not clear why predominantly female plants produce glandular
trichomes within their inflorescence structures. Illuminating the
genetic underpinnings of this sexual dimorphism remains a challenge for
further research. Glandular trichomes also develop on male flowers
(Leme et al., 2020),
albeit at lower density and probably with less phytocannabinoids.
Understanding which genetic factors restrict the development of
glandular trichomes largely to female inflorescences during flower
development would provide a valuable resource for an increase of
phytocannabinoid production.
5. The battle of the sexes: Sex determination in Cannabis