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Snow Lotus

FLOWERS  /  floral · green · fresh
Snow Lotus
Snow Lotus perfume ingredient
CategoryFLOWERS
Subcategoryfloral · green · fresh
Origin
VolatilityHeart Note
BotanicalSaussurea involucrata
AppearanceWoolly white or yellowish alpine flower growing on rocky mountain slopes above 4,000 m
Odor StrengthMedium
Producing CountriesChina (Tibet, Xinjiang), Nepal, India, Bhutan
PyramidHeart

Cold, herbal, and alpine-medicinal. Snow lotus (Saussurea laniceps) grows at extreme altitude in the Himalayas — its scent is austere, faintly bitter-herbal, and mineral-clean, like the thin air where it survives.

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

Scent

Snow Lotus has a complex scent profile that draws attenti on the senses with its fresh and airyfloral notes. It exudes a delicate sweetness, like spring blooms, combined with a subtle earthiness that grounds its ethereal qualities. The fragrance can be likened to a soft, crisp morning in the mountains, where the air is filled with the scent of dew-kissed petals and fresh greenery.

Scent Evolution

As the fragrance develops, hints of herbal nuances emerge. This blend of floral and slightly green notes creates a complex olfactory experience that is both refreshing and soothing. The overall impression is one of purity and tranquility.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

Fresh and airy floral notes dominate
After a few hours

After a few hours

Herbal nuances emerge
After a few days

After a few days

Soft, tranquil scent lingers

The Full Story

Snow Lotus, scientifically known as Saussurea involucrata, is a rare and respected flower that blooms in the harsh climates of the high Himalayas. This unusual plant, often found at altitudes above 3000 meters, has been recognized in traditional medicine for its healing properties and is steeped in cultural significance among the local populations. The flower's delicate, snow-white petals and It can thrive in extreme conditions symbolize resilience and purity.

Origin and Production

In perfumery, Snow Lotus has grown for its unique aromatic profile, which is both floral and slightly herbaceous. The extracti on process of this delicate blossom is careful, often involving steam distillati on or solvent extracti on to preserve its fragile scent. Each flower yields only a small amount of essential oil, adding to its luxury status and rarity in fragrance compositions. This limited availability further enhances its allure in niche perfumery, where it is often sought after for crafting exclusive scents.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

The significance of Snow Lotus in perfumery extends beyond its fragrance. It goes with themes of tranquility and serenity. Perfume creators value It can impart a sense of calm and complexity. Its ethereal nature allows it to blend smoothly with other notes.

Role in Perfumery

In recent years, the demand for Snow Lotus has increased, leading to greater awareness of sustainable harvesting practices. As a result, many perfumers are now prioritizing ethical sourcing to ensure that this precious flower continues to thrive in its natural habitat. This focus on sustainability preserves the Snow Lotus and enhances the narrative of the fragrances that feature this fine note.

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

Did You Know?

Did you know?
The Snow Lotus is also called a symbol of purity and resilience, thriving in some of the harshest climates on Earth.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Steam distillation or solvent extraction

Molecular FormulaComplex mixture — contains rutin, quercetin, syringin
CAS NumberN/A — no standard CAS for commercial extract
Botanical NameSaussurea involucrata
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsTianshan Snow Lotus · Xue Lian Hua · Saussurea
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthMedium
AppearanceWoolly white or yellowish alpine flower growing on rocky mountain slopes above 4,000 m

In Perfumery

In perfumery, Snow Lotus is a heart note, giving depth and character to the fragrance. It works with other floral notes such as jasmine and rose, as well as green notes like basil and mint. its delicate profile complements warmer base notes like sandalwood and musk, creating a balanced balance in the overall compositi on.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.