In botany, either of two species of the genus Humulus , nonwoody annual or perennial vines in the hemp family, native to temperate North America, Eurasia, and South America.
The hops used in the brewery industry (see beer ) are the dried female flower clusters ( cones ) of the common hop ( H. lupulus ), a long-lived perennial with rough twining stems. Hops impart a mellow bitterness and delicate aroma to brewed beverages and aid in their preservation. The Japanese hop ( H. japonicus ) is a quick-growing annual species used as a screening vine.
Hop vine ( Humulus lupulus ) with female flowers (cones) used in brewing.
Grant Heilman