HomeGlossary › Lemon Myrtle

Lemon Myrtle

CITRUS SMELLS  /  citrus · fresh · green
Lemon Myrtle
Lemon Myrtle perfume ingredient
CategoryCITRUS SMELLS
Subcategorycitrus · fresh · green
Origin
VolatilityTop Note
BotanicalBackhousia citriodora
AppearancePale yellow to greenish mobile liquid
Odor StrengthHigh
Producing CountriesAustralia
PyramidTop

The highest natural source of citral. Intensely lemony Australian leaf — brighter than lemongrass.

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

Scent

Lemon Myrtle opens with bright citrus notes and green, herbal qualities. Its profile is more layered than typical lemon.

Scent Evolution

As it develops, the initial zest softens while keeping its citrus character, becoming more rounded. Lemon Myrtle works as both a top note and a heart note.

Signature Accords

After 24 hours on a blotter, the scent retains a subtle brightness, with hints of earthy depth and a gentle warmth emerging. This lasting quality adds to its use in fragrance.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

Bright citrus with fresh lemon and herbal nuances.
After a few hours

After a few hours

Softens to reveal sweet, rounded, and herbaceous undertones.
After a few days

After a few days

Retains a subtle brightness with earthy depth.

Terroir & Expressions

Indicative 2025 wholesale prices.

The Full Story

Lemon Myrtle, scientifically known as Backhousia citriodora, is a native Australian plant with a bright, refreshing lemon scent. The leaves of this evergreentree are rich in citral, which gives them their citrus aroma. Traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for culinary and medicinal purposes, Lemon Myrtle is now more common for its fresh profile.

Origin and Production

Lemon Myrtle leaves are collected and dried to preserve their essential oils. The material appears in natural cosmetics, aromatherapy and fine fragrances, with a fresh, uplifting scent.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, Lemon Myrtle is used for bright, zesty compositions, as a primary note or a supporting layer. It combines with other citrus notes as well as floral and herbal elements. Interest in natural and organic ingredients has strengthened its place in the luxury fragrance market.

Role in Perfumery

Lemon Myrtle is valued in perfumery for its fresh, clear character.

Did You Know?

Lemon Myrtle is used in perfumery and in cooking, where its leaves feature in both sweet and savory dishes.

This note in Première Peau. Gravitas Capitale · Nuit Elastique · Rose Monotone. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Related notes: Bergamot · Bigarade · Bitter Orange · Blood Orange · Buddhas Hand · Calamansi · Candied Lemon · Chen Pi

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Lemon Myrtle is used in perfumery and in culinary applications, where its leaves can enhance both sweet and savory dishes.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Steam distillation

↑ See Terroir & Origins for origin-specific methods.

Molecular FormulaN/A — complex essential oil (key: citral C₁₀H₁₆O ~90%)
CAS NumberN/A — complex essential oil (key: citral CAS 5392-40-5 ~90%)
Botanical NameBackhousia citriodora
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
Synonymslemon-scented myrtle · lemon ironwood
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthHigh
Lasting Power24 hours
AppearancePale yellow to greenish mobile liquid
Flash Point154.00 °F. TCC ( 67.78 °C. )
Specific Gravity0.89000 to 0.91000 @ 25.00 °C.
Refractive Index1.48000 to 1.49000 @ 20.00 °C.

In Perfumery

Lemon Myrtle is a top note because of its bright, citrusy profile, but it can also contribute to the heart of a fragrance. It pairs exceptionally well with other citrus notes like bergamot and grapefruit, as well as with floral elements such as jasmine and neroli. Perfumers appreciate Lemon Myrtle for its capacity to add freshness and vibrancy, improving olfactory experience. Its volatility allows it to create an immediate impact in a fragrance, while its deeper characteristics can be utilized to provide complexity in compositions. This makes Lemon Myrtle a valuable ingredient for both niche and mainstream perfume houses looking to create refreshing and modern scents.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.