Fern

Fern is a green, earthy note that conjures the scent of lush undergrowth, dewy fronds, and forest floor dampness. While not a direct botanical extract—since real fern has no scent—this note is an olfactory impression crafted through an accord that captures the cool, leafy freshness and mossy moisture associated with ferns in nature. In perfumery, Fern is often aromatic, slightly bitter, and dark green, with nuances of moss, grass, soft earth, and sometimes herbal or spicy shadows. Used as a heart or base element, Fern adds depth, naturality, and structure, especially in compositions that aim to feel wild, verdant, or timelessly classic.

History & Composition: Fern is most famously connected to the Fougère (French for “fern”) fragrance family, which originated in 1882 with Fougère Royale by Houbigant. The fougère accord traditionally includes lavender, oakmoss, coumarin, and sometimes geranium and tonka bean—together mimicking the abstract scent of a fern-laden forest. Today, modern Fern notes may also incorporate aromatic herbs, woods, patchouli, and green aldehydes, expanding the range from fresh and barbershop-clean to dark and mossy. It pairs beautifully with lavender, vetiver, musks, and citrus, grounding fragrances with a cool, forested soul and a whisper of classical elegance.