Floral

Osmanthus

Note Profile

Natural 532 perfumes

Also Known As

Chinese Osmanthus, Japanese Osmanthus, Osmanthus Absolute

About

Apricot, leathery floral

Scent Profile

Osmanthus has a distinctive floral scent with pronounced notes of ripe apricot, peach, and a subtle leathery undertone. It reveals nuances of honey and suede as it develops, creating a complex and multifaceted aroma. The fragrance is both fruity and creamy, with a gentle, diffusive quality.

Citrus 0%

Floral 60%

Fruity 30%

Green 0%

Sweet 25%

Warm 10%

Woody 10%

Earthy 0%

Animalic 5%

Fresh 0%

Origin

Osmanthus is sourced from the small, fragrant flowers of Osmanthus fragrans, a shrub native to East Asia, particularly China. The flowers are typically harvested by hand and their scent is extracted using solvent extraction to produce an absolute, as distillation yields are low.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use osmanthus primarily in the heart of floral and fruity compositions, where it bridges top and base notes with its apricot-leather character. It blends well with jasmine, rose, tea, and woody notes, adding depth and a naturalistic fruitiness. Its unique profile is valued for imparting both softness and complexity.