The fruity lemon aromas present in many cannabis varieties are influenced by multiple factors and the combination of them. Among these factors are the flavonoids (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) and terpenes such as limonene (monoterpene), which is classified as a limonoid. This terpene is found in many plant species such as mint, pine, juniper, rosemary and cannabis.
Lemon/lime citric aromas in cannabis have a wide range of tones and shades, from old landrace strains to Old School Haze family phenotypes. Lemon terpenes can be found in genetics such as Jack Herer, Amnesia, Moby Dick, Super Lemon Haze and many more, with a more spicy, woody or floral (e.g. pine and cypress) lemon aroma component. On the other hand, the more modern varieties of US origin, with a lemon flavour also very present but with a different nuances, from a more chemical to more creamy and pastry-like sweet lemon.