Green

Galbanum

Note Profile

Botanical 694 perfumes

About

Sharp, bitter green

Scent Profile

Galbanum has a sharp, intensely green aroma with bitter, resinous facets and a slightly earthy undertone. Its scent is often described as fresh-cut grass blended with crushed stems and a hint of balsamic warmth. Over time, it can reveal subtle woody and musky nuances.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeHeart · ~6h lasting

Family Green & Aromatic

Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.

What this is made of

Galbanum oil

A natural extract

CAS 8023-91-4

Galbanum oil (IFRA NCS). The defining green-bitter material.

How the layers join

Origin

Galbanum is a gum resin obtained from the stems of Ferula species, primarily Ferula galbaniflua, native to Iran and surrounding regions. The resin is collected by making incisions in the plant and is then processed via steam distillation or solvent extraction to yield essential oil or absolute.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use galbanum mainly as a top or heart note to impart vivid green freshness and complexity to compositions. It is commonly blended with florals, woods, and citrus, and is a key material in green chypre and fougère fragrances. Its distinctive character can structure a fragrance or provide a naturalistic, leafy effect.