Hops (Humulus lupulus) is a vigorous climbing vine valued by home brewers for its distinctive cones used in beer making. During spring and summer, the hop plant grows rapidly and can climb as much as a metre a week under ideal conditions. Through summer it produces large clusters of white flowers which, once pollinated, develop into hop cones. These cones resemble very small green pinecones and are the female flowers of the plant. They are typically ready for harvesting from early to late autumn and can be used fresh or dried for brewing. Regular watering is important during the warmer months to support its rapid growth. The plant is a herbaceous perennial vine, meaning it dies back completely over winter before re-establishing itself in spring and summer. A single hop plant will usually produce enough cones for a home brewer, although growing two different varieties can provide greater flavour variety when brewing. When grown along a fence or trellis, it creates lush green coverage and makes an excellent addition to a veggie garden where it can climb without taking up valuable ground space.

Soil: Moist, well-drained soil.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade.
Size: Height 10m x width 1-2m