Humulus lupulus (Common Hop)

Brewers use the female flower cones of the Humulus lupulus plant, commonly referred to as hops. These cones contain lupulin, a resin that provides the bitterness and aroma needed to balance the sweetness of malt in beer. They are harvested annually and can be used fresh, dried, or pelletized.

Yes, hops contain natural preservative properties that help extend the shelf life of beer by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria. This antimicrobial characteristic was highly valued by historical brewers and was a major reason hops became the standard bittering agent. The lupulin resin also helps stabilize the beer's foam.

Yes, Humulus lupulus and cannabis both belong to the Cannabaceae family of plants. While they are distinct genera with different uses, they share certain physical traits and biochemistry. Both plants are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants, and they both produce aromatic terpenes.

Humulus lupulus is a perennial climbing vine that grows vigorously during the spring and summer. At the end of the growing season, the above-ground foliage dies back completely. However, the rootstock survives winter underground to sprout new bines the following year.