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How do orchids smell?

Published in Orchid Scent 2 mins read

Orchid scents are complex and can change over time, often starting with one aroma and evolving into another.

Orchid Fragrance Evolution

Orchid fragrances are not static; they develop and become more intricate as you continue to smell them. Here's what you can expect:

  • Initial Impressions: A fragrance might initially grab your attention with a strong citrus scent.
  • Evolution: After a few minutes, the initial citrus aroma often mellows, becoming sweeter and ultimately transforming into a floral fragrance.
  • Example: Dendrobium anosmum
    • This particular orchid demonstrates a fascinating scent progression.
      1. It begins by smelling like raspberry.
      2. The scent then shifts to strawberry.
      3. Next, the fragrance becomes like rhubarb.
      4. Finally, it finishes with a scent reminiscent of hyacinth.

Summary of Orchid Scents

Orchid Feature Scent Progression
Initial Scent Strong citrus
After Few Minutes Sweeter, Floral
D. anosmum Raspberry -> Strawberry -> Rhubarb -> Hyacinth

This dynamic scent profile means that the way an orchid smells at first whiff might be quite different from how it smells later on. It is also noteworthy that the specific scent and evolution is very orchid-species dependent.

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