OrionvsCitra

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

Orion

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

2.5–5.75%

Total oil

0.8–2.1 mL

Germany

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 Orion

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 essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Orion

Spicy

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyOrionCitra
Alpha acid6–9%10–15%
Beta acid2.5–5.75%3–4.5%
Co-humulone25–30%20–35%
Total oil0.8–2.1 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene41–56%60–70%
Humulene16–26%7–13%
Caryophyllene6–13%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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