What does Datura smell like?
Datura blossom smells of creamy white flowers, close to tuberose and lily. There is a lemony note and an almost milky softness. At night the scent gets heavier and a little dizzying. Perfume accords keep that milky, nocturnal side. They often add coconut, almond or heliotrope to round it out.
Origin and production
Datura (genus Datura) belongs to the nightshade family, like tomato and tobacco. It grows in warm regions worldwide. Every part of the plant is toxic, which rules out extraction for perfume. The flowers open at dusk and close in the morning. The datura note is a reconstruction built from white flower materials, lactones and green facets.
How perfumers use it
Datura mostly adds a night-time shadow to florals. Serge Lutens Datura Noir surrounds it with tuberose, almond and coconut in 2001. Lancôme Poême puts it in the top with blue poppy and narcissus. Yves Saint Laurent Mon Paris tucks it into the heart between peony and jasmine, under red fruit. Azzaro Wanted Girl pairs it with a dulce de leche note.
How to wear it
Datura is an evening note, best in spring or on a summer night. The perfumes that use it are often sweet. Stick to one or two sprays to keep the flower readable.