Ingredient Guide
Marigold belongs to the Asteraceae family and takes its name from “Mary’s Gold,” referring to the Virgin Mary. It is considered a relative of calendula. The flowers have a musky, green, herbal scent. They are also used to flavor tobacco and foods.
What Does It Smell Like in Perfume?
The natural oil known in perfumery as marigold or tagetes is obtained mainly by distilling the above-ground parts and flowers of Tagetes minuta and related plants. Its distinctive scent combines fruitiness reminiscent of lemon, apple, pink grapefruit, and mango with green mint and grassy notes and a hint of spice. It adds exotic brightness and bitterness to fruity accords, while sharpening the definition of green notes. This fragrance material differs from an infused oil of Calendula officinalis in both the plant species and the production process.
Choosing a fragrance with marigold
Marigold can lend herbal greenness and a touch of bitterness to a floral fragrance. That may come as a surprise if its yellow flowers suggest only sweetness.
- Enjoying the green side: Marigold can appeal if you like fresh leaves and a little bitterness.
- With white flowers: Look for the contrast between a rich flower such as jasmine and marigold’s green character.
- With woods: Vetiver or cedar adds a woody drydown beyond the floral notes.
Two fragrances featuring marigold
Bal d’Afrique Eau de Parfum (Byredo)
African marigold, bergamot and buchu meet violet and cyclamen, followed by vetiver and cedar. Marigold appears within a fragrance that moves from bright citrus to the calm of woods.
Jasmine Sambac & Marigold Cologne Intense (Jo Malone London)
This fragrance contrasts rich jasmine sambac with vibrant marigold. White floral fullness takes the lead, rather than the citrus and woods of Bal d’Afrique.
Find your next fragrance
In Fragrance Finder, choose “Favorite fragrances & notes” on the home screen, then look for notes you enjoy under “Favorite notes”. Select from the available suggestions and press “Next”.
