Sunbeam Hops
AromaAlpha 4.0 - 5.0%United States
Sunbeam is a rare and visually stunning variety that bridges the gap between high-end brewing and ornamental horticulture. Developed by the legendary Dr. Al Haunold in 1990 at the United States Department of Agriculture experimental "East Farm" in Corvallis, Oregon, Sunbeam is a sophisticated cross between the prestigious Saaz and an open-pollinated seedling of the yellow-leafed Sunshine variety.
This diploid plant is instantly recognizable for its brilliant, neon-yellow foliage. However, this beauty comes with a catch: due to reduced chlorophyll content, Sunbeam is uniquely sensitive to intense sunlight. To prevent the leaves from shriveling or browning, it thrives best in semi-shade—making it a favorite for "estate" hop growers and homebrewers with diverse garden microclimates. While never intended for massive commercial production, it remains a prized "functional ornamental" for its authentic European soul and its status as a unique piece of American hop history.
If you can't find Sunbeam, the best alternatives are Crystal, Saaz, Sterling, or Sunshine.
At A Glance
| Profile | Fresh Spring Flowers, Sweet Hay, Spicy, Herbal, Earthy, Lemon, White Pepper |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Aroma |
| Alpha Acid | 4.0 - 5.0% |
| Substitutes | Crystal, Saaz, Sterling, Sunshine |
| Pairs with | Liberty (to maintain a soft and floral profile), Saaz (to amplify the spice), Sterling (for a bit more herbal punch) |
| Beer Styles | Light Lager, Pilsner, Belgian Witbier, Blonde Ale |
General Information
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Alias | USDA 21108 |
| Storage Stability | Retains 50% alpha acid |
Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)
| Alpha Acid | 4.0 - 5.0% |
|---|---|
| Beta Acid | 3.3 - 4.5% |
| Cohumulone | 13.0 - 18.0% |
| Total Oil | 0.6 - 1.6 ml/100g |
| Myrcene | 35.0 - 50.0% |
| Humulene | 25.0 - 35.0% |
| Caryophyllene | 6.0 - 10.0% |
| Farnesene | 5.0 - 10.0% |
| Linalool | 0.3 - 0.5% |
Growth & Cultivation
| Yield | 800 - 1,200 lbs/acre |
|---|---|
| Maturity | Medium early |
| Resistant | Downy mildew (moderate), Verticillium wilt (moderate) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Cones | Small to medium, often taking on a lighter, lime-green hue compared to traditional hops |
| Ease of Harvest | Good; the bines are manageable and the cones are relatively firm |
| Sex | Female |
| Leaf Color | Lemon yellow with reddish-brown stems |
| Side Arm Length | 12" - 20" |
- 2026-03-25 23:20:46