A THC percentage tells you how strong something might be. It doesn’t tell you how it’ll actually feel. That’s the job of terpenes — the aromatic compounds behind every strain’s smell, flavor, and vibe. Here are six terpenes worth knowing this summer, and where you can find them in the Elevate lineup.
Limonene: Bright, Citrus, Social
Smells like: lemon peel, orange zest, grapefruit
Limonene is the terpene that gives cannabis strains their citrus notes. Strains high in limonene are generally good picks for feeling upbeat and social. Pairs well with daytime hangouts, errands, or anything where you want to stay sharp and lifted.
Strains to try: Appalape (Sativa), Grapefruit Durban (Sativa), Grandpa’s Stash (Indica)
Pinene: Fresh, Clear, Focused
Smells like: pine trees, rosemary, fresh herbs
Pinene shows up in strains that feel crisp and grounded. These strains promote feelings that are more present than foggy. A solid pick if you want clarity without losing the calm.
Strains to try: Lemon G (Sativa-CBD), Mimosa (Sativa), Heaven’s Devil (Indica)
Beta-Caryophyllene: Spicy, Warm, Grounded
Smells like: black pepper, clove, warm spice
Caryophyllene adds depth without heaviness, to get you relaxed but not sleepy. It’s the terpene that makes a strain feel warm and settled, perfect for evening hangs that don’t need to end early.
Strains to try: Smashfruit (Sativa), Fin Mintz (Hybrid), Garlic Crusher (Hybrid)
Myrcene: Mellow, Heavy, Laid-Back
Smells like: earthy, musky, mango
Myrcene is the terpene behind that classic couch-lock reputation — heavy, relaxed, low-key. It’s the one to reach for when your plans are officially “nothing.”
Strains to try: Star Killer (Indica), Strawberry OG (Indica), Headband Cookies (Sativa)
Linalool: Calm, Floral, Cozy
Smells like: lavender, soft spice
Linalool brings a floral, gentle quality. Good for when the day needs to slow all the way down.
Strains to try: Mimosa (Sativa), Fin Mintz (Hybrid)
Terpinolene: Bright, Playful
Smells like: sweet herbs, citrus, fresh woods
Terpinolene skews energetic and a little wild. Strains or products built for creative sessions, festivals, or anything where you want the day to feel a little more alive. Newer to terpinolene? Start small; it can run brighter than expected.
Strains to try: Citradelic Sunset (Sativa), Mac & Cheese (Hybrid), Cherry Diesel (Indica)
Mixing Terpenes for a Custom Effect
You’re not locked into one terpene at a time. Pairing strains with complementary profiles, say, a limonene-forward sativa with a myrcene-forward indica, lets you build toward a more specific feeling than either strain gives you alone. A budtender can help you find pairings based on what’s currently in stock.
This is our case for skipping the “what’s the strongest one” question. Ask your budtender what terpene profile matches the day — or night — you’re trying to have instead.
