Petalia is a captive floral molecule developed by Givaudan, chemically 2-cyclohexylidene-2-(o-tolyl)acetonitrile. It belongs to the floral family and smells fresh, rosy and peony-like, with fruity lychee undertones and a light, diffusive character.

What does Petalia smell like?

Petalia has a bright, dewy peony-rose scent with a juicy fruity side, often likened to lychee, and hints of lily of the valley. It is lighter and more diffusive than classic rose materials, with a clean, transparent quality. Compared with Givaudan's older peony nitrile Peonile, it is considerably more potent.

Where Petalia comes from

Petalia is a synthetic molecule made by Givaudan. As a nitrile, it is chemically stable, making it useful in a wide range of products, from fine fragrance to shampoos and detergents.

• Also known as: 2-cyclohexylidene-2-(o-tolyl)acetonitrile (CAS 916887-53-1)
• Fragrance family: Floral
• Type: Synthetic
• Made by: Givaudan
• How it's obtained: Chemical synthesis

Petalia in perfume history

Petalia belongs to a family of cycloalkylidene phenyl acetonitriles patented by Givaudan in the 2000s. The patent notes that placing a substituent in the ortho position of the phenyl ring greatly lowered the odour threshold, meaning the molecule is detectable at much lower concentrations than related compounds.

Petalia in modern perfumery

Petalia is used to add a fresh, fruity peony-rose note to modern florals, fruity florals and fresh unisex scents. Published note lists credit it in popular designer and niche perfumes, including Parfums de Marly Delina (2017).

How Petalia wears and what it pairs with

Petalia works in the top and heart with good diffusion. It pairs well with rose, peony, lychee, raspberry, magnolia, musk and light woods.