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Kowhai

Q: Is Kowhai natural or synthetic?

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

FLOWERS / woody · floral · sweet

Kowhai

Category	FLOWERS
Subcategory	woody · floral · sweet
Origin
Volatility	Heart Note
Botanical	Sophora microphylla
Appearance	Bright golden-yellow pendulous clusters of tubular flowers; New Zealand native tree
Odor Strength	Medium
Producing Countries	New Zealand
Pyramid	Heart

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.

Scent
The Full Story
Fun Fact
Extraction & Chemistry
In Perfumery

Scent

Kowhai has a sweet, honeyed aroma with a floral undertone and a hint of woodiness that grounds its sweetness.

Scent Evolution

As the fragrance evolves, the woody aspects of kowhai become more pronounced. The initial sweetness gives way to a more structured profile in which the floral and woody notes harmonize well. This makes it suitable for both personal wear and scenting a space.

Evolution over time

Immediately

In the first minutes, the sweet floral notes are prominent, creating an inviting atmosphere.

After a few hours

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

After a few days

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

The Full Story

Kowhai, botanically Sophora microphylla, is a tree native to New Zealand, noted for its bright yellow flowers and aromatic wood. The tree has significant cultural importance among the Māori people. Kowhai wood imparts a sweet, distinctive scent. Its historical roots can be traced back to early Māori use in woodworking and crafts.

Origin and Production

Kowhai wood is harvested in New Zealand. Its scent is sweet and floral, recalling the tree's blossoms, and it is used in perfumery.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, kowhai is used as a heart note and combines with citrus, floral, and earthy elements.

Did You Know?

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

Explore 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 Formula	Complex mixture (no single formula)
CAS Number	90106-66-4 (Sophora species extract)
Botanical Name	Sophora microphylla
IFRA Status	No known restrictions
Synonyms	NEW ZEALAND KOWHAI · YELLOW KOWHAI
Physical Properties
Odor Strength	Medium
Appearance	Bright 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.