Powdery

Iris

Note Profile

Botanical 4,454 perfumes

Also Known As

Black Iris, Chinese Orris Butter, Iris Pallida, Iris petals, Iris Root, Orris, Orris Absolute, Orris Pallida Concrete, Tuscan Iris, Violet Root, White Iris

About

Powdery iris root

Scent Profile

Iris in perfumery is characterized by a powdery, soft floral scent with earthy, woody, and slightly buttery nuances. Its aroma is subtle, cool, and elegant, often evoking the impression of fine cosmetics or vintage face powder. Over time, it develops a creamy, velvety texture with hints of violet and a faint dryness.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeHeart · ~8h lasting

Family Floral, Woody & Earthy

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

WorldSee it in Note Island

ScentArt

What is ScentArt?

What this is made of

Iris pallida absolute

A natural extract

CAS 8002-73-1

Iris pallida oil (IFRA NCS). Deliberately NOT 'Irish moss extract', which a name match returns and which is a seaweed.

How the layers join

Origin

The scent is derived from the rhizomes of Iris pallida, Iris germanica, or Iris florentina, known as orris root. The roots are harvested, dried for several years to develop their fragrance, and then processed by steam distillation or solvent extraction to obtain orris butter or orris concrete.

Usage in Perfumery

Iris is primarily used as a heart or base note due to its fixative properties and long-lasting character. It blends well with violet, woods, musks, and citrus, lending sophistication and a powdery texture to floral, woody, and oriental compositions.