This perennial vine grows up to 10 feet long. The leaves are either small and ovate, or up to 12 inches across with 3-5 pointed lobes (B). The male and female flowers are on separate plants. The male flowers are in loose, hanging clusters which are about 9 inches long (B). The female flowers turn into green hops which turn brown when mature (A). Identified by its hops and 3-5 lobed leaves. The similar Japanese Hops (Humulus japonicus) has leaves with 5-9 pointed lobes. The fruit of Ironwood (Ostrya virginiana), a tree, is hops-like as well.
Found along roads, ditches and forest edges, flowering in July and August. In Fontenelle Forest, uncommon along Handsome Hollow Trail near the railroad tracks.
These Common Hops are grown commercially for use in brewing beer. Hops-pickers are known to be easily fatigued, which is believed to be due to certain oils being released during the harvest. Also known as Hop Vine.
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