Osmanthus in perfumery

Osmanthus in perfumery

In This Article


Osmanthus: Hints of the Rising Sun

Osmanthus is an incredibly rich and versatile fragrance ingredient. Its notes are smooth, velvety, and dense, creating a texture reminiscent of peach skin. Perfumers have an inexhaustible olfactory palette when working with osmanthus, which presents sweet, honeyed, tangy, juicy, floral, and even animalistic and leathery facets. This remarkable ingredient gained recognition thanks to Jean Patou's perfume 1000, renowned for its daring composition. In this floral chypre, osmanthus serves as a heart note, masterfully paired with violet, rose, and jasmine. Combined with the chypre and woody notes that Jean Patou incorporated, 1000 is an exuberant and extravagant fragrance. Since then, osmanthus has attracted other noses, and many perfumers have created soliflores or solinotes to highlight osmanthus.

The Association of Osmanthus with Different Olfactory Families

Osmanthus's multifaceted nature allows it to harmonize with various olfactory families. It is often found in floral perfumes, where it contributes its unique floral and luminous notes, as in Eau de Dolce Vita by Christian Dior. Here, osmanthus appears as a base note, accentuated by vanilla to enhance its sweetness. At the top, the scent of pear tree delicately enters on citrus notes. The heart remains voluptuous and floral, thanks to jasmine and peony. The result is an irresistibly sparkling fragrance. Eau de Dolce Vita's carefree and light character has earned it the nickname "anti-depressant perfume." Another effervescent fragrance is Kenzo Jungle le Tigre by Kenzo, where osmanthus is combined with spicy notes. A wild yet sweet accord, Kenzo Jungle le Tigre caters to women who cherish their freedom, creating a modern and sensual fragrance.

As an iconic Chinese shrub, osmanthus produces lovely fragrant flowers. A true treasure for perfumers, osmanthus dazzles with its diverse and captivating scents. Currently on-trend, osmanthus pairs perfectly with floral, fruity, spicy, and woody notes, serving as a delightful source of inspiration.

Fun Facts About Osmanthus

  1. Osmanthus is known as "the perfume plant" due to its highly fragrant flowers.
  2. It is traditionally used in Chinese cuisine to flavor teas, jams, and desserts.
  3. In Chinese culture, osmanthus symbolizes love and romance, and it is often associated with the moon and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
  4. The name "osmanthus" comes from the Greek words "osme," meaning "fragrance," and "anthos," meaning "flower."
Back to blog
Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

MFK Baccarat Rouge 540 dupe
Caramelle Rosse

If you're searching for a Baccarat Rouge 540 dupe, you've likely come across Caramelle Rosse as a popular alternative. Although the bottle's design and aesthetic differ significantly, the similarity between the two fragrances' floral and woodsy scent profiles is remarkable. Caramelle Rosse has become a widely discussed option among those seeking a more affordable alternative to the renowned Baccarat Rouge 540 without compromising the unique aroma.