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Introduction |
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The Scent of Spring The scent of lilacs may take you on a quick trip down memory lane, but from the plant’s perspective it’s simply a way to attract pollinating insects. Classifying scents Experts classify lilac scent by its strength, with singles having the strongest odour. The type of fragrance also varies, from sweet French and Hyacinthiflora hybrids to spicy Oriental lilacs. Sniff carefully though, as not all lilacs are sweet smelling — some species’ fragrances are actually quite offensive! |
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Last year’s weather, this spring’s scent Like fine wines, lilacs have good and bad years. Flower buds form the previous summer, and so the quality and quantity of bloom (and scent) depends on last year’s weather. Sunny, cool summers produce the best blooms the next spring, while rainy or hot weather has the opposite effect. Scent production is also influenced by this year’s weather, being strongest after a sunny, cool spring. Even the time of day will affect your olfactory experience, as scent production peaks around dusk. |
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The elusive scent of lilacs Even though perfume chemists have been able to extract the four complex alcohols that give lilacs their heady scent, these compounds lack the true fragrance of fresh flowers. Imitation lilac essence is created by blending seven natural and synthetic fragrances. One of the most abundant of these fragrances (and the one that smells most like real lilacs) comes from turpentine! Blends of lilac essence show up in products as diverse as laundry detergent, shampoo and air fresheners. |
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The cream of the crop What is the most fragrant lilac? Scent is an individual experience, but many lilac-lovers feel that the most fragrant is a very old, deep-purple common lilac, Syringa vulgaris 'Marlyensis'. Others say that 'Serene' wins this contest — by a nose! |
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