Prickly Pear, also known as Opuntia, is a fresh, fruity, and watery fragrance note derived from the cactus fruit. Its scent is reminiscent of a blend of watermelon and cucumber, with subtle tropical and green nuances. Prickly Pear adds a juicy and refreshing character to fragrances, making it a popular choice in light and fruity compositions, as well as green and aquatic perfumes. It is used to create a sense of brightness and cleanliness, offering a unique balance of sweet and watery elements. Although the oil can be extracted from the fruit, Prickly Pear is typically produced synthetically for consistent and large-scale use in the fragrance industry.
Natural or Synthetic?
Prickly Pear is commonly used in its synthetic form because the natural extraction process is complex and yields limited quantities of oil. The synthetic version allows perfumers to capture the fresh, watery, and fruity profile of the cactus fruit consistently and affordably. While the natural extraction from the fruit is possible, it is not commercially viable for large-scale production. The synthetic form also provides better control over the balance of sweetness and green freshness in fragrances, ensuring uniformity in different compositions.
Fragrance Families Prickly Pear Most Commonly Found In
Show fragrances that contain Prickly Pear as a note