CitravsPetit Blanc
Citra (dual purpose) and Petit Blanc (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Petit Blanc
Alpha acid
2–4%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
0.5–0.8 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Citra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Petit Blanc
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Melon
Only in Citra
CitrusGrapefruitPeachLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Only in Petit Blanc
CherryPapayaGreenLilac
Property
| Property | Citra | Petit Blanc |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–15% | 2–4% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–35% | 15% |
| Total oil | 1.5–3 mL | 0.5–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 60–70% | - |
| Humulene | 7–13% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | France |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |