CrystalvsTsingdao Flower
Crystal (aroma) and Tsingdao Flower (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Tsingdao Flower
Alpha acid
6–8%
Beta acid
3–4.2%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
China
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Tsingdao Flower
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Tsingdao Flower
EarthyLemonMelonCitrus
Property
| Property | Crystal | Tsingdao Flower |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 6–8% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 3–4.2% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.4–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | - |
| Humulene | 20–30% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | China |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker