Hops, Humulus Iupulus, are perennial climbing plants of the hemp family (Cannabaceae) that are cultivated principally for their flowers, used as a flavoring in beer. New vines, produced annually, rise from an underground stem that may grow 4.5 m (15 ft) deep.The pollinated female flowers, or cones, develop sticky yellow grains (hop meal) that contain the characteristic bitter hop flavor. The cones must be kiln-dried and cured for use in brewing. Hop flavor is often added to beer by using extracts derived from boiling the hops.
The United States and Germany are leading producers of hops.
 
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Last Modified 06/03/2008 08:33:04