ZulavsColumbus

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

Zula

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–14%

Beta acid

3.8–7%

Total oil

1.1–2 mL

Poland

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 Zula

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
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Zula

CleanTropicalFruity

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyZulaColumbus
Alpha acid8–14%14–18%
Beta acid3.8–7%4.5–6%
Co-humulone30%28–35%
Total oil1.1–2 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene-45–55%
Humulene-9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginPolandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons