Sesquiterpene synthase that catalyzes the formation of sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenoid alcohols (PubMed:24078339). Converts farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to beta-caryophyllene (PubMed:24078339). Can use geranyl diphosphate (GPP) to produce myrcene, limonene and camphene (PubMed:24078339). (2E,6E)-farnesyl diphosphate = (-)-(E)-beta-caryophyllene + diphosphate Binds 3 Mg(2+) ions per subunit. Secondary metabolite biosynthesis; terpenoid biosynthesis. 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.