When we talk about hops, we immediately think of the cone-shaped flowers used to flavor beer. But did you know that this plant can also be grown for ornamental purposes? We are going to introduce you to the good reasons to adopt the 'Aureus' cultivar, also known as golden hops, in your garden.
The "golden hop" is a cultivar of the species Humulus lupulus, the plant traditionally used to flavor beer since the 8th century. Unlike other common types of hops, it is not used by the brewing industry but has been developed exclusively for ornamental purposes.
As its name suggests, this cultivar is characterized by its particularly decorative golden foliage in gardens. It is a fast-growing, perennial, and hardy climbing plant up to -20°C.
Because it can reach up to 6 meters in height in a single season, this climbing plant from the Cannabaceae family is very interesting for gardeners who want to create a screen in record time or hide an unsightly feature such as a pylon or an old tree…
The golden hops, which can be purchased in pots, quickly establish themselves in the garden as they are durable and undemanding. They adapt to all exposures, although they prefer partial shade.
They favor a deep soil, rich in compost and that retains water well, as plants of the species Humulus lupulus have significant water requirements.
When they are happy with their location, hops show exceptional longevity and will wind around any support. They can even become invasive and eventually suffocate the trees they climb.
The golden hop stands out from the common hop by a slightly lesser growth and a foliage with a beautiful light color in spring. Before the flowering period that spans from August to October, the foliage of this cultivar takes on golden or yellow-green hues. The golden shades, quite visible in spring, gradually turn to a soft green in summer.
These golden leaves are most striking in gardens as they contrast with other climbing plants such as a brightly colored morning glory, a blue-flowered clematis, or a white climbing rose. They can also cloak a trellis, arbor, or any other structure you wish to dress up or conceal from view in a beautiful golden color.
With its beautiful foliage with golden highlights, the golden hops is an ideal plant for bringing light into shaded areas of the garden.
As we explained earlier, this climbing plant loves partial shade. Therefore, you can confidently install it in the less sunny areas of your garden, for example, as a backdrop to hydrangeas in a flowerbed. You can also use this perennial climber in a mixed hedge by combining it with other vigorous climbers like the cream-flowered 'Cream Form' akebia.
Note: This cultivar is not used for flavoring beer. However, it is possible to pick its uniquely shaped conical flowers to create beautiful dried bouquets. The best time for harvesting is in September.
Author Audrey on 04 May 2022
Home and Garden : Garden
Author Audrey on 12 January 2022
Home and Garden : Garden