Orris Root Powder

The Iris florentina produces large white flowers with a yellow line from its centre and can sometimes display light purplish hues. The name Iris means rainbow in Greek and was chosen because of the many varieties of colours that can be found in this genus. Since the Middle Ages, the white iris is the symbol of the city of Florence, Italy, where you can still visit the famous Iris Garden. This is how the name of this species, florentina, was chosen.

The root of the plant when fresh (called 'orris') has an earthy smell, but after two years of drying, the smell of violet appears and the longer we wait, the stronger it will become.

Orris root powder and oil were used in the 18th century as an ingredient to perfume wig powder. Since then it has been a popular material in fine fragrances, facial powders and dusting powders.

Following traditions, Lush purchase the precious powder from Italy.