The female flowers are used to flavor beer. The higher the alpha acid content the more bitter the hop. Cascade is 5-7% alpha acid. Pleasant flowery, 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.