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Kowhai

FLOWERS  /  woody · floral · sweet
Kowhai
Kowhai perfume ingredient
CategoryFLOWERS
Subcategorywoody · floral · sweet
Origin
VolatilityHeart Note
BotanicalSophora microphylla
AppearanceBright golden-yellow pendulous clusters of tubular flowers; New Zealand native tree
Odor StrengthMedium
Producing CountriesNew Zealand
PyramidHeart

Faintly honeyed, mild, and nectar-sweet. Kowhai (Sophora) is New Zealand's national flower — its yellow, bell-shaped blossoms carry a gentle, honey-like sweetness that attracts native tui birds.

  1. Scent
  2. The Full Story
  3. Fun Fact
  4. Extraction & Chemistry
  5. In Perfumery

Scent

Kowhai exudes a sweet, honeyed aroma with a subtle floral undertone that is both uplifting and calming. The fragrance can be likened to the scent of freshly bloomed flowers, with a hint of woodiness that grounds its sweetness. This combination creates an inviting and warm olfactory experience, like a sunlit garden in full bloom.

Scent Evolution

As the fragrance evolves, the woody aspects of kowhai become more pronounced. The initial sweetness gives way to a more structured scent profile, where the floral andwoody notesharmonize beautifully. This evolution makes it an arresting choice for both personal wear and atmospheric enhancement in various settings.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

In the first minutes, the sweet floral notes are prominent, creating an inviting atmosphere.
After a few hours

After a few hours

After 1-4 hours, the woody undertones start to emerge, adding depth.
After a few days

After a few days

After 24h+, a warm, soft aroma lingers, balancing sweetness and earthiness.

The Full Story

Kowhai, derived from the Latin name Sophora microphylla, is a striking tree native to New Zealand, respected for bright yellow flowersand aromatic wood. The tree has significant cultural importance among the Māori people. Kowhai wood is known for beauty and for the sweet, particular scent it imparts. Its historicalroots can be traced back to early Māori use in woodworking and crafts.

Origin and Production

The harvesting of kowhai wood is done sustainably, respecting New Zeal and's rich biodiversity. The scent profile is distinctly sweet and floral, like the tree's striking blossoms. As perfumers increasingly explore natural ingredients, kowhai has found its place in luxury fragrances. Its particular arom a connects with both traditional and modern olfactory trends, bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary craft.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, kowhai is known for versatility, often used as a heart note that complements a wide array of other ingredients. It works with citrus notes, floral accords, and earthy elements. The richness of kowhai adds a layer of complexity.

Did You Know?

Kowhai trees can live for over 100 years and are known for attracting native birds with their bright flowers.

This note in Première Peau. Nuit Elastique · Albâtre Sépia. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Kowhai trees can live for over 100 years and are known for attracting native birds with their bright flowers.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Kowhai (Sophora microphylla) is not commercially extracted for perfumery. The note is a fantasy accord.

Molecular FormulaComplex mixture (no single formula)
CAS Number90106-66-4 (Sophora species extract)
Botanical NameSophora microphylla
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsNEW ZEALAND KOWHAI · YELLOW KOWHAI
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthMedium
AppearanceBright golden-yellow pendulous clusters of tubular flowers; New Zealand native tree

In Perfumery

In perfumery, kowhai is primarily used as a heart note, giving warm character to fragrance compositions. Its sweet and floral qualities make it a perfect complement to citrus and other floral notes, while its woody undertones supports depth. Kowhai works well in both earthy and fresh fragrances, allowing perfumers to craft layered olfactory experiences.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.