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The Plant Behind the Oil: Patchouli

Patchouli oil is extremely important in the perfume industry. Apart from its characteristic heavy, woody, earthy and slightly sweet odor, it has long-lasting and strong fixative properties preventing rapid evaporation of the perfume.
Shelia Murray

by Shelia Murray

The Plant Behind the Oil: Patchouli
Pogostemon cablin

Taxonomy, Etymology and Cultivation
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a species of flowering perennial herb in the family Lamiaceae. This plant family is commonly called the mint or deadnettle family. The plant grows as a spreading mound of thin branching stems reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height. The 2-3 inches long (5-7 cm) leaves are oval, irregularly toothed and opposing. They are covered with little hairs which, when brushed against, release its characteristic scent. Both the leaves and stems of the plant are aromatic when crushed. 

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