Violet Leaves

Violet leaves, derived from the plant Viola odorata commonly known as sweet violet, are distinct from the plant’s sweet-smelling flowers. The leaves themselves have a very different aroma profile, characterized primarily by a green, earthy scent with subtle floral undernotes. The predominant green note often has hints of cucumber and slightly woody tones, making it fresh and slightly aquatic.

The scent of violet leaves is used extensively in perfumery to add depth and complexity. This is achieved thanks to a compound called ionone, which is also present in the flower but is less pronounced in the leaves. Ionone has the ability to momentarily desensitize the receptors in the nose, leading to a fascinating scent experience where the smell seems to fade and reappear. This intriguing quality makes violet leaf a valuable component in fragrances, particularly those that lean towards fresh, green, floral, or aquatic scent families.

The aroma of violet leaves is appreciated for its ability to invoke the feeling of damp earth and fresh greenery, reminiscent of a walk through a lush, dewy garden in the early morning. It provides a crisp and invigorating element to perfumes and can be beautifully paired with other floral notes to create balanced, verdant, and sophisticated scent compositions.