Characterization and transcriptomic analysis provide novel insights into the sexual differentiation of the dioecious plant Bama Huoma (Cannabis sativa)

Abstract Background: Bama Huoma is a high-value cash crop because its seeds are known as the “holy seeds of longevity”. However, its seed yield is restricted by dioecism, and information about flower sex differentiation in this plant is lacking. Results: In this study, anatomical analysis and dynamic transcriptome profiling were performed to explore the mechanism of sex differentiation in Bama Huoma. The results revealed that female and male flowers undergo independent developmental processes and that sex differentiation occurs at an