TropicavsColumbus

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

Tropica

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.8%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

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 Tropica

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
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Dank

Only in Tropica

PineappleMandarinOrangeTropical

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentCannabis

Property

PropertyTropicaColumbus
Alpha acid8.8%14–18%
Beta acid3%4.5–6%
Co-humulone-28–35%
Total oil-2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene-45–55%
Humulene-9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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