Deep, smoky, resinous, animalic, sweet
Origin: Southeast Asia (especially from Aquilaria trees)
Use: Known as “liquid gold” in perfumery, oud is highly prized and used in niche and luxury fragrances.
4. Vetiver
Fragrance profile: Earthy, smoky, woody, slightly bitter
Origin: Haiti, India, Java
Use: While technically a grass, vetiver’s roots are distilled to produce a woody scent that’s popular in masculine and natural-smelling perfumes.
5. Patchouli
Fragrance profile: Earthy, woody, slightly sweet, musky
Origin: Indonesia, India
Use: Another non-wood that gives off woody character; it blends well with both florals and spices.