CitravsZythos

Citra and Zythos 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

Zythos

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–12.5%

Beta acid

4.7–6.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zythos

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusGrapefruitFloral

Only in Citra

PeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Zythos

TangerinePineTropical

Property

PropertyCitraZythos
Alpha acid10–15%10–12.5%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.7–6.2%
Co-humulone20–35%28–31%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.7–1.2 mL
Myrcene60–70%30–50%
Humulene7–13%14–23%
Caryophyllene5–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%1–3%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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