The new hop plant variety is a bittering-type cultivar of recent origin. Its bittering and aromatic properties are similar to the Galena hop variety. However, unlike Galena which is susceptible to powdery mildew, the new variety is moderately tolerant to powdery mildew. It is also tolerant to Sphaerotheca. The new variety produces a medium size cone with fair to good pickability, and fair to good storageability. Harvest is medium-late, with a crop yield of 2450 to 2550 pounds per acre (2750 to 2860 kg/ha).

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a new and distinct variety of hop plant, and more particularly to a new hop plant variety of unknown parentage which was discovered among plants created as part of a controlled breeding program. The new variety has been stably reproduced over successive generations. Discovery of the new variety and initial reproduction by root cuttings was carried out in a research nursery in Prosser, Wash., U.S.A. Subsequent asexual reproduction took place in Granger, Wash., U.S.A.

DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIETY

The new hop plant variety is a bittering-type cultivar of recent origin. Its bittering and aromatic properties are similar to the Galena (unpatented) hop variety. However, unlike Galena which is susceptible to powdery mildew, the new variety is moderately tolerant to powdery mildew. It is also tolerant to Sphaerotheca. The new variety produces a medium size cone with fair to good pickability (similar to Galena), and fair to good storageability (25% to 30% alpha loss after six months common storage). Harvest is medium-late (approximately September 5 in Granger Wash.), with a crop yield of 2450 to 2550 pounds per acre (2750 to 2860 kg/ha).

The following is a detailed botanical description of the new and distinct variety of Humulus lupulus , based on observations of specimens grown in Grange, Wash. during the 1998 growing season. All colors are described according to The Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart. It should be understood that the botanical and analytical chemical characteristics described will vary somewhat depending upon cultural practices and climatic conditions and can vary with location and season.

Shoot emergence. Medium early to medium; similar to Galena.

Number of leaf lobes. 1-5.

Shattering potential at harvest. Similar to Galena.