Southern CrossvsCitra

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

Southern Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.2–2 mL

New Zealand

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 Southern Cross

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LimeCitrus

Only in Southern Cross

LemonPineSpicyTropicalZest

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertySouthern CrossCitra
Alpha acid11–14%10–15%
Beta acid5–7%3–4.5%
Co-humulone25–28%20–35%
Total oil1.2–2 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene31–55%60–70%
Humulene13–21%7–13%
Caryophyllene5–8%5–8%
Farnesene6–8%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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