Populus nigra absolute (CAS 921202-04-2) — Balsamic Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Populus nigra absolute
CAS 921202-04-2
What Is Populus nigra absolute?
Populus nigra absolute is a rare botanical extract derived from the buds of black poplar trees. It’s occasionally found in niche perfumes and natural fragrance products. This ingredient matters because it captures the unique resinous, balsamic character of spring buds with subtle honeyed undertones, offering perfumers an unusual natural material.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Populus nigra absolute Smell Like?
Populus nigra absolute unfolds with an intense green burst reminiscent of crushed spring buds and sticky sap. The heart reveals complex layers of balsamic resin, beeswax, and faint medicinal nuances. As it dries down, it leaves a warm, honeyed trail with subtle animalic undertones that recall propolis. The overall effect is like walking through a damp forest at budbreak, where resinous tree bark mingles with emerging vegetation.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its animalic-balsamic duality, adding depth to the oakmoss-musk base with a tactile, skin-like quality.
Provides resinous texture to the orange blossom accord, evoking the sticky buds of Andalusian trees.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Populus nigra absolute is a complex natural mixture containing phenolic glycosides, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Key constituents include populin, salicin, and various cinnamates. The material is obtained through solvent extraction of the sticky spring buds, concentrating the resinous compounds. Unlike steam-distilled poplar bud oil, the absolute retains heavier molecular weight components that contribute to its distinctive balsamic character.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous dark brown liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used as a balsamic modifier |
| Natural Perfumery | 1-3% | Up to 7% | Valued for its complexity |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly in fougère bases to add naturalistic tree bud realism.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Lighter, more terpenic profile from steam distillation. Better for top notes but lacks the absolute’s depth.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Not evaluated under current standards.
RIFM Assessment
No formal RIFM assessment available. Considered safe at current usage levels.
Sustainability
Populus nigra absolute is sustainably wild-harvested in Europe, with collection limited to early spring buds. The extraction yield is low (0.5-1.5%), making it relatively expensive. Some producers are experimenting with cultivated poplar varieties to reduce pressure on wild trees while maintaining the characteristic scent profile.
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References
- Tissier, J. (2018). Bud exudates from Populus nigra. Phytochemistry, 156, 201-210. DOI:10.1016/j.phytochem.2018.09.003
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 921202-04-2Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
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