The cannabis industry is steadily moving beyond THC as the sole measure of value. Breeders and researchers are focusing on rarer cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and THCV, each offering unique potential for wellness, product development, and consumer experience. With advancements in genomics and plant science, the industry is starting to see stable strains where these minor cannabinoids take center stage.
CBG takes the lead.
Cannabigerol (CBG), often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it serves as a precursor to many others, is finally emerging as a dominant strain profile. Dutch Passion’s CBG-Force was one of the first reliable CBG-rich varieties to hit the European seed market, testing with high CBG and almost no THC. In the U.S., Front Range Biosciences partnered with Hemp Trading to launch Panakeia, a THC-free, high-CBG cultivar designed for broad cultivation. Oregon CBD has also documented its journey creating CBG-forward hemp varieties, showing how careful selection and testing paved the way for stable genetics.
CBC: from trace to target.
Cannabichromene (CBC) has historically been present only in trace levels, but recent research and breeding breakthroughs are changing that. A 2023 study in the Journal of Natural Products highlighted how strain genetics strongly influence CBC output, suggesting it can be bred intentionally rather than found by chance. Canadian and U.S. collaborations have already delivered CBC-dominant cultivars, such as Valerie-16 and Valerie-29, which can produce 3–4% CBC—significantly higher than legacy varieties. These genetics are particularly attractive to extractors and product developers seeking differentiated formulations.
THCV: the varin frontier.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), found in some African landraces, has been rare in modern cultivation but is now gaining traction. Dutch Passion released THC-Victory, a stable photoperiod strain with a 1:1 THCV to THC ratio, making it one of the first consumer-ready options. Meanwhile, Front Range Biosciences introduced a class of THCV genetics to help scale production for both flower and derivative products. Scientific reviews, like this Journal of Cannabis Research article, point to THCV’s potential in metabolic health and appetite regulation, fueling further interest.
Why it matters.
The emergence of CBG-, CBC-, and THCV-dominant strains reflects a deeper understanding of the cannabis plant’s biosynthetic pathways. Studies show that precursors like CBGA can be redirected toward multiple cannabinoids, giving breeders new tools for innovation. For consumers, this means greater choice and more tailored products—whether they’re seeking non-intoxicating relief, niche therapeutic effects, or simply something beyond high-THC offerings.
Bottom line: The “THC arms race” is making room for a broader cannabinoid portfolio. As genetics stabilize, expect to see more strains marketed for their CBG, CBC, or THCV dominance, offering consumers fresh experiences and the industry new pathways for growth.