HydravsLemondrop

Hydra (dual purpose) and Lemondrop (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Lemondrop

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

0.8–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Lemondrop

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Hydra

TangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical

Only in Lemondrop

LemonFloralMintGreenMelon

Property

PropertyHydraLemondrop
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%5–7%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%4–6%
Co-humulone27–28%28–34%
Total oil-0.8–2 mL
Myrcene54–55%45–47%
Humulene11–12%56–58%
Caryophyllene8–9%9–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–7%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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