Synthetic

Coumarin

Note Profile

Synthetic 51 perfumes

About

Warm, hay-like sweet with vanilla and almond facets

Scent Profile

Coumarin has a warm, sweet scent reminiscent of freshly mown hay, with pronounced vanilla and almond undertones. Its aroma can evoke notes of tonka bean, dried grass, and a subtle spiciness. Over time, it softens into a creamy, powdery sweetness that lingers gently.

Citrus 0%

Floral 0%

Fruity 0%

Green 15%

Sweet 50%

Warm 15%

Woody 0%

Earthy 0%

Animalic 0%

Fresh 0%

Origin

Originally isolated from tonka beans in the 19th century, coumarin is now produced synthetically for perfumery. It can also be found in natural sources such as sweet clover and certain grasses, but synthetic production ensures purity and consistency.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use coumarin primarily as a base note to impart warmth, sweetness, and a sense of softness. It blends well with fougère, oriental, and gourmand compositions, often paired with lavender, vanilla, woods, and spices to round out and fix the fragrance.