LotusvsHersbrucker

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

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Lotus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Hersbrucker

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Lotus

VanillaBerryTropicalCream

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayTobacco

Property

PropertyLotusHersbrucker
Alpha acid13–17%1.5–5%
Beta acid5–6%2.5–6%
Co-humulone33–39%17–25%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene25–35%15–30%
Humulene35–40%20–30%
Caryophyllene-8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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