Florentine iris (Iris pallida) is grown almost exclusively in the hills around Florence and the Tuscan countryside. The rhizome must be aged for three to five years before steam distillation yields orris butter, the most expensive natural raw material in perfumery, priced higher than rose absolute. The result smells powdery, suede-like, slightly carrot-edged, and dry with a violet-floral undertone. Florentine iris anchors luxury feminine compositions including Chanel No. 19, Dior Homme, Frederic Malle Iris Poudre by Pierre Bourdon, Lutens Iris Silver Mist, and several Roja Parfums iris-led releases. It pairs especially well with violet, ambrette, sandalwood, and rose for soft-suede or makeup-bag fragrances. Browse Florentine-iris-led fragrances at the Florentine iris collection.
