Emerald SpirevsCitra

Emerald Spire and Citra are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Emerald Spire

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.6–13%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Emerald Spire

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PeachMelon

Only in Emerald Spire

FruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleHoneydew

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireCitra
Alpha acid8.6–13%10–15%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone38–39%20–35%
Total oil-1.5–3 mL
Myrcene36–37%60–70%
Humulene10–11%7–13%
Caryophyllene7–8%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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