Southern CrossvsLemondrop

Southern Cross (dual purpose) and Lemondrop (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Southern Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.2–2 mL

New Zealand

Lemondrop

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

0.8–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Southern Cross

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Lemondrop

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemonCitrus

Only in Southern Cross

LimePineSpicyTropicalZest

Only in Lemondrop

FloralMintGreenMelon

Property

PropertySouthern CrossLemondrop
Alpha acid11–14%5–7%
Beta acid5–7%4–6%
Co-humulone25–28%28–34%
Total oil1.2–2 mL0.8–2 mL
Myrcene31–55%45–47%
Humulene13–21%56–58%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–10%
Farnesene6–8%6–7%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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