Quackin Grass Nursery

Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' - Golden Hops from Quackin Grass Nursery

Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' – Golden Hops has been long established in one of our gardens. The very yellow leaves (when planted in full sun) are handsomely articulated both in leaf shape underscored with prominent veining, The texture of leaves, petioles and stems are like a clinging sticky sandpaper, a coarse but weirdly accurate description of how all above ground parts feel like on ones skin. The flowers or hops emerge mid summer from axils and may bloom until autumn as it twines and rambles along the tops of shrubs, a striking lace to the greenery to which it clings. The flowers, both male and female on the single vine, may emit a citrus-like or pine fragrance. Not for feint of heart though – this really isn't a plant for the small garden. However, in a small garden options to consider would be growing it on a trellis, wall or pergola if that is part of the design. But if planted in a more expansive garden bed then it then let it stretch along and decorate the shrubs in a full sun exposure or a south facing hedge. As with many plants in all categories the sap from Humulus lupulus can cause rashes for some who handle it. But it is a double-edged sword as with many “poisonous” plants as traditionally it has been used for insomnia. The specie is being studied for its apparent ability to enhance GABA levels thereby calming the nervous system. There is actually a rather extensive medicinal uses. But then there is, of course, beer! Drought tolerant once established grow it in full, blazing sun in average to fertile soil.