Lilial® (Givaudan)

An intensely fresh and powerful floralcy, marked by significant watery and green undertones, evokes the classic scent of muguet. This core lily-of-the-valley character is clean and diffusive, capturing a dewy, vibrant petal-like quality that brings life to a composition. Subtle complexities emerge through a soft, powdery background and a faint, almost hidden cumin-like nuance that adds a unique warmth and depth. The overall effect of the ingredient, known commercially as Lilial®, is one of impressive radiance, imparting a realistic and humid floral signature to any blend.

For decades, its versatility made it a workhorse for building a wide array of floral accords. It was particularly recommended for conferring tenacity and realism to muguet, linden-blossom, and cyclamen compositions, where its presence could create a blooming, voluminous effect. In these applications, this aldehyde, chemically known as p-tert-Butyl-alpha-methylhydrocinnamic aldehyde, blended seamlessly with materials like hydroxycitronellal and cyclamen aldehyde to create complete bouquets. Due to significant regulatory reclassifications, its use in modern perfumery is now heavily restricted or prohibited in many regions, making it a legacy material in the floral palette.