The female flowers are used to flavor beer. The higher the alpha acid content the more bitter the hop. Willamette is 4-6% alpha acid. Pleasant earthy, floral, spicy and citrusy flavor. The antibiotics lupulon and humulon keep bacteria from growing during the brewing process. Hops filled pillows are used for cases of insomnia. The entire plant is clinging and will climb most surfaces. Great for trellises - it does best in rich loose soil. We ship only female plants. Can not be shipped to Washington or Oregon state. Dormant October - March.