Scent is an integral part of communities from around the world, from incense used in prayer to fragrant flowers offered as a sign of love, to the $30 billion perfume industry. The world of plants is central to this industry, supplying essential oils derived from flowers, barks and roots, supplying inspiration and imagery, and supplying molecules that can be manipulated into something new to the human nose. [...]

This exhibition focuses on the complexities of fragrance, featuring a collection of plants traditionally used in the perfumer's palette. We have tied each one to the distinct perfumes of French master, Serge Lutens. Come visit the Lyman Conservatory for an exploration into this fascinating corner of botany and sample a fine French fragrance, Datura Noir.

— The exhibit Botanical Fragrance From Plants to Perfume will run during the month of May at the Physiology House, Lyman Conservatory, Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts.