Broom

What Does It Smell Like?

Broom smells like freshly mown grass mixed with something slightly peppery and herbaceous, with an almost almond-like sweetness lurking beneath. Imagine walking through a sun-warmed meadow after rain, where wild shrubs release their green juices into the air. It's crisp and airy, with a hint of hay and something distinctly vegetal—not quite floral, more like the green snap you'd get from crushing fresh stems between your fingers. There's a whisper of bitterness too, like biting into green tomato skin.

Origin & History

Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a Mediterranean shrub with bright yellow flowers that grows wild across Southern Europe. The fragrance note comes from the plant's flowers and branches, traditionally harvested in spring when the essential oil content peaks. Modern broom accords are often created synthetically or through absolute extraction, capturing that distinctive green-peppery character. Historically, broom was used in medieval gardens and cleaning products—hence the name "broom" itself, as the plant's rigid branches were literally bundled to sweep floors.

In Perfumery

Broom acts as a vibrant green top or middle note, lending freshness and a slightly spicy, herbaceous edge. Perfumers use it to add naturalistic greenery without heaviness, often pairing it with citrus for brightness or iris and violet for sophistication. It's a workhorse for "ozonic" and "aromatic" compositions, grounding floral arrangements with earthy authenticity.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 19 Fragrances