Mimosa in perfumery
In This Article
Characteristics and Use of Mimosa in Perfumery
Mimosa, known for its small, velvety, and silky yellow flowers, thrives in siliceous and dry soils. It is a tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. These hermaphroditic flowers reproduce through entomogamy (pollination by insects). Mimosa bears brown, slightly flattened pods as fruits. Its twigs are velvety and devoid of thorns, while its leaves are compound. In perfumery, mimosa flower absolute is obtained by extracting the small branches with volatile solvents. The result is a powdery, floral, warm, and rich absolute, with a honeyed and straw-like scent. Its aroma is mysterious and subtle, often blended with tuberose, carnation, and rose. The mimosa seems to evoke a sense of balance and comfort.
Fun Fact: The mimosa tree is also known as the "touch-me-not" plant because its leaves fold inward when touched or shaken, an adaptation that helps protect it from environmental stress.
Mimosa-based Perfumes
Several iconic perfumes feature the note of mimosa, each with its unique character and personality:
Cacharel's Loulou: Launched in 1987, this perfume evokes a more seductive femininity than the brand's previous creations. The sensuality of the fragrance is initially expressed through vanilla, combined with floral and solar notes such as ylang-ylang, tiare, and jasmine, followed by powdery notes like iris, heliotropin, and mimosa. The addition of tangerine, blackcurrant, incense, musk, tonka bean, and sandalwood lends character to the mimosa.
Yves Saint Laurent's Paris: This iconic fragrance contains mimosa, which, alongside ylang-ylang, adds splendor to the spicy and floral notes. The composition is softened by creamy sandalwood for an enveloping effect.
Kenzo's Summer: This fragrance opens with a burst of mimosa, exuding elegance and delicacy. The powdery notes of mimosa, violet, and heliotrope are immediately noticeable, creating a fresh yet soft and cosmetic scent that distinguishes this mimosa-based perfume.
Fun Fact: In the South of France, the annual Fête du Mimosa is a vibrant, colorful event that celebrates the arrival of mimosa flowers, usually taking place in February. The festival features parades, fireworks, and other festivities, showcasing the importance of mimosa in the region's culture.
Try out these perfumes that prominently feature the enchanting note of mimosa and discover which one resonates with your personal style.
