Pioneer
Alpha acid
8–10.5%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pioneer
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
Shared aromas
GrapefruitGrapefruit
Only in Pioneer
CedarHerbalLemonCrispClean
Only in Citra
CitrusPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Property
| Property | Pioneer | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–10.5% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 1–1.8 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 34–36% | 60–70% |
| Humulene | 18–25% | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |