Frangipani

What Does It Smell Like?

Frangipani smells like creamy, intoxicating tropical flowers with an almost buttery softness. Imagine the sweetness of vanilla and honey swirled with the delicate perfume of gardenias, then add a whisper of coconut and almond. It's densely floral but never sharp—instead, it's narcotic and powdery, like walking through a humid garden at dusk where exotic blossoms release their most seductive fragrance. The scent clings to your skin with a gentle, creamy warmth.

Origin & History

Frangipani (Plumeria) originates from Central America and Mexico, though it's now cultivated throughout tropical regions. The white and pink blossoms produce an oil naturally, but capturing true frangipani is challenging—the flowers don't yield easily to distillation. Perfumers typically rely on absolute extractions or, more commonly, skillfully blended synthetics that recreate this elusive scent. The fragrance became beloved in traditional Hawaiian and Caribbean cultures, where it symbolises love and new beginnings.

In Perfumery

A lush heart note that brings creamy, indolic richness to florals. Frangipani typically plays the leading lady in tropical and white floral compositions, grounding lighter florals with its soft, velvety sensuality. Often paired with soft musks and vanilla to amplify its dreamy, comforting character. It can feel slightly animalic when concentrated.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 53 Fragrances