CitravsLotus

Citra (dual purpose) and Lotus (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Lotus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryTropicalCream

Property

PropertyCitraLotus
Alpha acid10–15%13–17%
Beta acid3–4.5%5–6%
Co-humulone20–35%33–39%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene60–70%25–35%
Humulene7–13%35–40%
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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