OrionvsColumbus

Orion and Columbus 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

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 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 Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Orion

-

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyOrionColumbus
Alpha acid6–9%14–18%
Beta acid2.5–5.75%4.5–6%
Co-humulone25–30%28–35%
Total oil0.8–2.1 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene41–56%45–55%
Humulene16–26%9–14%
Caryophyllene6–13%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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