What is the difference between Lily and Lily of the valley?
By Dan Terry
Lily and Lily of the Valley (aka Muguet) are two different flowers that are commonly used in perfumery and are often confused.
Lily is a large family of flowering plants that includes many species, including the popular Easter lily, tiger lily, and Asiatic lily. The scent of lilies can vary greatly depending on the species, but in general, they have a sweet, floral, and slightly spicy aroma.
Lily of the Valley, on the other hand, is a small flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It has a delicate, sweet, and fresh fragrance that is often described as floral and green. The aroma of Lily of the Valley is due to the presence of aroma chemicals such as linalool, alpha-terpineol, and methyl anthranilate, which contribute to its sweet, floral, and green scent.
In perfumery, both lilies and Lily of the Valley are used to add a fresh and floral character to fragrances. However, the scent of Lily of the Valley is typically more delicate and nuanced, making it a popular choice for light and fresh perfumes, while the scent of lilies is often used to add a bold and dramatic touch to perfumes