Character
The Story of Night-blooming jasmine
Night-blooming jasmine refers to Jasmine Sambac, a true jasmine species prized in perfumery for its intoxicating evening fragrance. Unlike its daytime-blooming relatives, Sambac releases its most intense scent as darkness falls. Perfumers treasure this variety for its warm, exotic character and remarkable tenacity as a base-note component.
Heritage
Jasmine Sambac originated in South and Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years in Persia and the Indian subcontinent. Called "raat ki rani" (queen of the night) in India, the flowers have long been planted near windows and terraces specifically for their evening fragrance. During the 16th century, Arab traders introduced jasmine to Europe via Spain, and cultivation expanded to Grasse, France, where it became fundamental to classical perfumery. By the 19th century, jasmine had earned its place among the most noble flowers in the perfumer's palette, featuring prominently in grand floral and chypre compositions. The Arabs essentially carried jasmine westward along ancient trade routes that connected Asia to the Mediterranean world.
At a Glance
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Feature this note
India
Primary source region
Ingredient Details
Solvent extraction
Flower petals
Did You Know
"Harvesting occurs before sunrise, when jasmine flowers hold the highest concentration of fragrant volatile compounds—heat during the day causes these compounds to dissipate rapidly."