ColumbusvsSouthern Cross
Columbus and Southern Cross are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- 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 Southern Cross
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
SpicyCitrus
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Southern Cross
LemonLimePineTropicalZest
Property
| Property | Columbus | Southern Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 11–14% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 5–7% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 25–28% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1.2–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 31–55% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 13–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 6–8% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |