Fact Checked by Doctor NameWhat is a Pistil?
The pistil is the female reproductive organ of a cannabis plant. Also known as the “stigma,” pistils emerge from the nodes and bracts of cannabis flowers in the form of white hairs.
Their purpose is to collect pollen from males to fertilize the plant. Each pistil contains a stigma, which receives pollen at its tip.
Examination of the pistils provides information about the maturity and potency of cannabis flowers. On an immature plant, the pistils are often long and straight.
As the plant matures, the pistils darken and begin to curl and change color, typically to orange or rusty red hues. A high density of matured, darkened pistils indicates a potent flower.
The progression of the pistils is part of the flowering process. Growers monitor the changes to optimize harvest timing.
Maximum yields and THC levels are achieved when between 60% and 70% of the pistils have darkened and curled in on themselves.
The condition and number of visible pistils also indicate the quality of the final cured flower.
