- Latin name
- Lilium candidum, Lilium spp.
- Family
- Lily family (Liliaceae)
- Origin
- the scent is created in the laboratory
- Parts used
- flowers (as the reference for the scent)
- Raw materials
- floral accords
- Extraction
- synthesis
- Olfactory group
- floral (white flowers)
- Position in the pyramid
- heart
- Synthetic substitutes
- linalool, methyl benzoate, eugenol, floral bases
The lily is a large, striking flower with waxy petals and long stamens. Since ancient times the white lily has symbolised purity, and its scent is so strong it fills a whole room. Hardly any natural material is obtained from lilies, so perfumers recreate them as an accord.
How it smells: lush, sweet and slightly spicy: white flowers, honey, a light clove shade and the fresh green of the stem. Lily sounds solemn, bright and clean at the same time — like a bouquet in a bright room.
The scent of lily combines fresh and warm facets: the lightness of white flowers and the spice of eugenol — the very molecule that smells of clove. It is this spicy touch that distinguishes lily from delicate lily of the valley or jasmine.
What it pairs with: with tuberose and jasmine — lush white-floral bouquets, with rose — classic floral compositions, with green notes — a fresh lily, with clove and pepper — spicy flowers, with musk and sandalwood — a soft, solemn base.
Good to know: lily pollen leaves stubborn orange stains on clothes and tablecloths, so florists often carefully remove the stamens from open flowers.
