CitravsSouthern Tropic
Citra (dual purpose) and Southern Tropic (bittering) 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
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Citra
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusMelon
Only in Citra
GrapefruitPeachLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Only in Southern Tropic
TroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum
Property
| Property | Citra | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–15% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–35% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 1.5–3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 60–70% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 7–13% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |