Heart-leaved common hop
Humulus lupulus var. cordifolius
A wild variety of common hops native to East Asia, known for its edible female …
Golden hop (Humulus lupulus 'Aureus')
Common hop 'Aureus'
Golden Common Hop
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' (Golden Hop) - Care & Growing Guide
Renowned for its striking golden-yellow foliage, Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' serves as a highly ornamental selection of the common hop. This fast-growing climber is popular for covering trellises, arches, and walls, creating a vibrant focal point in temperate gardens.
Unlike the wild species, this cultivar is selected primarily for its visual appeal. It brings a bright, contrasting color to shady or green areas of the landscape.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ Angiosperms
- ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
- ∟ eudicots
- ∟ Superrosids
- ∟ rosids
- ∟ order Rosales
- ∟ family Cannabaceae (Hemp family)
- ∟ genus Humulus (Hops)
- ∟ species Humulus lupulus (Common Hop)
- ∟ cultivar Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' (Golden hop)
Morphology
The morphology of Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' is characterized by its climbing habit and colorful foliage. It grows as a herbaceous perennial, with stems dying back to the ground each winter before rapidly regrowing in spring.
- Stems: Tough, twining bines that spiral clockwise, covered in tiny hooked hairs to grip support structures.
- Leaves: Opposite, broad, and deeply lobed with 3 to 5 serrated segments, displaying a vibrant golden-yellow hue that turns lime-green in heavy shade.
- Flowers: Cone-like female strobiles (hops) that develop in late summer, emitting a distinct, pungent aroma.
Flowering season
Late summer to early autumn
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Care parameters
Prefers full sun to partial shade; full sun is necessary to maintain the brightest golden foliage.
Requires regular, deep watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot summer months.
Hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9; tolerates winter freezing as the vines die back to the rootstock.
Thrives in moderate relative humidity, but good air circulation is vital to prevent fungal diseases.
Generally safe for humans, but highly toxic to dogs, potentially causing severe hyperthermia if ingested.
Applications
In landscaping, Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' is primarily used for vertical interest and quick screening. It is excellent for growing over pergolas, fences, and large obelisks where its bright leaves can be displayed.
Although it produces hops, they are generally less favored for commercial brewing compared to dedicated agricultural cultivars. However, they can still be used for home brewing or decorative dried arrangements.
Interesting facts
- The cultivar has received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Its bines climb by wrapping around supports, using rough hairs rather than tendrils to secure themselves.
- The foliage color is highly dependent on light, with shade-grown leaves reverting to a standard light green.
Geography of distribution
- Russia
- Европа
- USA
Sources
- Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
See also
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