Sesquiterpene synthase involved in the biosynthesis of beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activities. Can use farnesyl diphosphate and (+)-chrysanthemyl diphosphate as substrates, but not geranylgeranyl diphosphate. Produces two irregular monoterpenes, yomogi alcohol and artemisia alcohol from (+)-chrysanthemyl diphosphate. Limited activity with geranyl diphosphate, leading to the production of limonene, terpinolene, beta-pinene, gamma-terpinene, alpha-terpinene and other minor products. (2E,6E)-farnesyl diphosphate = (-)-(E)-beta-caryophyllene + diphosphate Binds 3 Mg(2+) or Mn(2+) ions per subunit. Optimum pH is 7.7. Monomer. Highly expressed in stem epidermis, cortex and stele. Detected in leaves, petioles and inflorescences, but not in roots. Expression decreases with the age of the seedlings. Up-regulated by wounding and by elicitor treatment. The Asp-Asp-Xaa-Xaa-Asp/Glu (DDXXD/E) motif is important for the catalytic activity, presumably through binding to Mg(2+). Belongs to the terpene synthase family. Tpsa subfamily.