CitravsColumbus

Citra and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyCitraColumbus
Alpha acid10–15%14–18%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone20–35%28–35%
Total oil1.5–3 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene60–70%45–55%
Humulene7–13%9–14%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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