Southern CrossvsLemondrop
Southern Cross (dual purpose) and Lemondrop (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Lemondrop
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
| Property | Southern Cross | Lemondrop |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 5–7% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 28–34% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 0.8–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 45–47% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 56–58% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 6–7% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |