traits, and survival status of this taxonomic variety are the subjects of this study. Native Humulus populations were typically associated with only a few tree and shrub species, notably Acer negundo L. [box elder], Crategus spp. [hawthorn], Fraxinus nigra Marsh. [black ash], F. pennsylvanica Marsh. [green ash], Populus balsamifora L. [balsam poplar], P. deltoides Marsh. [cottonwood], Prunus americana Marsh. [wild plum], P. pensylvanica L. [pin cherry], P. virginiana L. [choke cherry], Quercus macrocarpa Michx. [bur oak], Ribes spp. [wild currant], Rosa spp. [wild rose], Salix spp. [willow], Sambucus canadensis L. [elder], Symphoricarpos occidentalis Hook. [snowberry], and Viburnum opulus var. americanum Ait. [highbush cranberry]. Cone (strobilus) variations, exceeding those of leaves and vines, included size (15 mm to 45 mm long), shape (globose to ovoid-conical), and compactness (loose vs. imbricated bracts). Trait diversity of seedling progenies exceeded that of each native population from which they originated. Traits of genetically potential usefulness included dwarf plant habit, precocious cone production, early season flowering, pest repellence, frost resistance, potential drought resistance, and commercially desirable cone structure. Both native-plant and progeny populations were generally free of diseases common to commercial hops, thus offering germplasm that is compatible with institutional hop breeding programs. Persistence of native hop populations from 1989 to 1999 was problematic, with five of 11 selected study sites sustaining complete loss or serious damage. Protection of sensitive riparian habitats occupied by this genetic resource may be warranted, particularly until adequate germplasm sources are secured and reposited for further investigation and use.