What Does Gardenia Smell Like? Everything You Need to Know About Its Scent

Are you always wondering what gardenia smells like, but you never really had the chance to smell it for yourself? And as someone who loves scents, there’s nothing more exciting than discovering a new fragrance! Here are some fun facts about gardenia, which is one of the most popular and sought-after flowers today.

How Do Gardenias smell?

Gardenia scent is cold, powerful, and fresh, as well as woody, feminine, and flowery. They have a very fragrant flower that can change its scent throughout the day. It smells like spicy-sweet, zesty, luscious, and freshly cut grass when you walk through a garden full of gardenias at night. All in all, the gardenia blossom also smells like coconut.

Others describe that it smells like summer, fruity-juicy fragrance and tangy notes, a hint of citrus. It has become one of the most popular fruity scents in the world. What is even more interesting is that Gardenia was originally developed by a British perfume company as a hair tonic for women. This explains why Gardenia possesses an exotic scent that has something to do with jasmine, lily, and rose. Are you having a hard time imagining the smell? It’s better to actually experience through our sensory smell than just barely describing it when we talk about the scent.

The Difference Between Jasmine and Gardenia Smell

Gardenia and Jasmine’s scents are often compared to each other. However, they don’t smell alike. Jasmine has this unique “jasmine scent”. The undertone aroma of jasmine is lovely, beautiful earthy smell. On the other hand, Gardenia Gardenia has a stronger, more pronounced aroma. When compared to the other possibilities, this one has a more feminine feel to it and is more likely to be remembered.

It is a hybrid citrus flower that smells similar to oranges, limes, and lemons. Its scent is said to be so pungent that it can be smelled up to 1 km away.

The Difference Between Magnolia and Gardenia Smell

When comparing the fragrances of gardenias and magnolias, they have their own unique qualities. Gardenias have a sweet, floral scent often compared to jasmine and tuberose. It’s quite strong and can fill a room with its perfume-like aroma. On the other hand, magnolias have a more subtle fragrance characterized by a lemony, citrusy scent with hints of vanilla and spice. It’s a more delicate fragrance that’s often compared to a light perfume. Ultimately, it’s a matter of preference for which fragrance you prefer. Some people love the bold scent of gardenias, while others prefer the understated aroma of magnolias.

Do All Gardenia Varieties Smell the Same?

There is no one answer to this question as the Gardenia variety of flowers can vary in smell quite a bit. However, some common varieties may have a stronger scent.

Which Gardenia Is the Most Fragrant?

Gardenia ‘Aimee Yoshioka’ this flower is renowned for its intense fragrance as well as its stunning double blooms that are ivory-white in color and can measure 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm) across. It is the largest flower among the gardenia varieties.

How Long Will Cut Gardenias Last?

If you want to build a corsage out of your freshly cut gardenias, you can keep the flowers fresh for up to 24 hours by storing them in a plastic container in the refrigerator. Again, be certain that it is not in close proximity to fruits or vegetables to prevent interaction with ethylene gas.

The Gardenia Flowers Blooming after Rain

Do Gardenias Smell at Night?

The fact that gardenias are regularly pollinated by moths causes them to exude their perfumes more at night when the majority of moths are so engaged than they do during the day. Gardeners have often observed that, although the fragrance of gardenias may be detected at any time of day, the fragrance is most strong around twilight and throughout the night.

Gardenia as Perfumes

Gardenia flowers, like jasmine, have a pleasant and well-loved aroma that is often utilized in fragrances. Gardenias are a popular choice for bridal bouquets, not only because of their enticing scent but also because of their pristine white petals. The intense and “seductive” flowery scent of this plant and its capacity to induce relaxation make it a popular ingredient for lotions, perfumes, body wash, and a variety of other topical uses.

Best Gardenia Perfumes

Did you know that authentic gardenia perfumes are expensive? That’s because you need 3,000-4,000 kg of gardenia flower just to extract a 1 kilo of solid perfume. However, there are other alternatives to enjoy the scent. Perfumers made synthetic versions of it in which they mix the gardenia extract with jasmine, tuberose, and orange flower.

You might want to experience the gardenia perfume for yourself. Here are some to try on:

Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Toilette Spray

This perfume offers a spin of fruit yet floral scent but still has this feminine aroma. This floral fragrance combines juicy notes of fresh gardenia with a sweet finish of pear and red berries. In the summer months, this fragrance is light enough to wear day or night!

Pacifica Tahitian Gardenia

his high-end perfume is perfect for all occasions, but especially when you want to make a statement. It starts with the scent of gardenia to create a subtle floral that will have everyone around you asking what you’re wearing! It combines with tea leaves, sweet orange, and jasmine to create a bright floral aroma. The perfect combination of citrus and flowers will leave you feeling fresh and clean, just like a beautiful day in the summer.

Tocca Florence Eau de Parfum Spray

You can find the perfect scent for any occasion with Tocca’s Florence. With a sophisticated, modern twist on the classic gardenia, it’s an ideal pick for any occasion. The name Tocca is synonymous with luxury, and this Paris-inspired fragrance lives up to the hype. The classic gardenia is combined with bergamot and pear to create a fresh and feminine scent.

Cartier La Panthère Eau de Parfum Spray

Cartier is an iconic brand of jewelry, watches, and perfume. Cartier perfumes are especially popular among celebrities, and this particular fragrance is a favorite among many. With a name like La Panthère, it’s no wonder that this perfume has such a fierce reputation. This scent is intoxicating and bold, with a strong musky smell that’s sure to make you feel sensual and irresistible. This perfume includes the smell of rhubarb and patchouli to create an unforgettable aroma that will have your friends asking what you’re wearing!

Byredo Casablanca Lily Night Veils Perfume Extract

This perfume is a modern take on the timeless city of Casablanca. The scent opens with a fresh, citrusy blast of blood orange, mandarin, and black currant before moving into a heart of carnation, bergamot, gardenia, and violet. The scent’s base is composed of palissandre wood, Indian tuberose, and honey.

Beautiful gardenia on branch tree in art tone style.

How To Make Gardenia Extract

If you cannot afford expensive gardenia perfume, don’t worry you can make your own. Gardenia extract is simple to make and has a delicate scent. Here’s a simple way how to make it.

Things To Prepare:

3-4 newly picked fresh gardenia flowers

6 ounces high proof alcohol or vodka (look for 50% alcohol)

Procedure:

  1. Tear the petals of the gardenia flower into small pieces and place them in the jar
  2. Rinse your petals with alcohol. The petals of the flower will turn brown.
  3. Put it in the dim area for 8-10 weeks.
  4. In 6-8 weeks, sniff the scent. If the smell pleases you, you may strain off the petals or let the alcohol settle.
  5. Now you can use the extract for perfume or lotion. You have 2 years before it’s unfit for use or consumption.