CrystalvsLotus

Crystal and Lotus are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Crystal

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.8–6%

Beta acid

4.5–8.5%

Total oil

0.8–2.3 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 Crystal

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Lotus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryTropicalCream

Property

PropertyCrystalLotus
Alpha acid2.8–6%13–17%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%5–6%
Co-humulone20–26%33–39%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene30–55%25–35%
Humulene20–30%35–40%
Caryophyllene5–12%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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