Among the world’s most mesmerizing blooms, Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) stands as a true emblem of grace, luxury, and eternal fragrance. Known as the “Candle flower” for its luminous white blooms and intoxicating aroma, tuberose has enchanted poets, perfumers, and gardeners alike for centuries. From Hawaii to India, its allure transcends cultures, evoking passion and purity in every petal.
What Is Tuberose? The Flower of Heavenly Fragrance
The tuberose Plant is a perennial night-blooming plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family. Native to Mexico, it has now found its home in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide. Its tall, slender stems bear clusters of waxy, tubular white flowers that bloom at night, releasing a heady, romantic scent. This unique nocturnal blooming behavior gives tuberose the poetic name “Queen of the Night.”
The flower’s fragrance is intense, creamy, and sweetly floral, often described as a mix of jasmine, gardenia, and honey. Because of its potent scent, even a few blossoms can perfume an entire room, making it a favorite in perfume creation, aromatherapy, and floral arrangements.
The Symbolism and Cultural Significance of Tuberose
Throughout history, tuberose has symbolized love, sensuality, and purity. In Indian culture, it is called “Rajnigandha,” meaning “fragrance of the night,” and is used in weddings, garlands, and religious offerings. In Hawaii, tuberose leis symbolize honor, love, and celebration, while in Victorian Europe, they represented dangerous pleasures and forbidden desires due to their intoxicating aroma.
Its dual symbolism—innocence and passion—makes the tuberose a plant of contrast, adored by lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
🌼 Tuberose Flower – Quick Reference Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Tuberose, Candle Flower |
| Scientific Name | Polianthes tuberosa |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Native Region | Mexico |
| Type | Perennial, bulbous plant |
| Bloom Time | Summer to early autumn |
| Bloom Color | White (sometimes pink or variegated varieties) |
| Fragrance | Strong, sweet, creamy, and exotic |
| Symbolism | Purity, passion, eternal love, and sensuality |
| Cultural Names | Rajnigandha (India), Candle Flower, Queen of the Night |
| Height | 2–4 feet tall |
| Flower Structure | Clusters of tubular blooms on long spikes |
| Soil Type | Well-drained loamy or sandy soil |
| Soil pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Sunlight Requirement | Full sun (at least 6 hours daily) |
| Temperature Range | 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F) |
| Watering Needs | Keep soil moist but not waterlogged |
| Fertilizer | Balanced NPK (10:10:10) every 3–4 weeks |
| Propagation Method | Bulbs and offsets |
| Blooming Period | 3–4 months after planting |
| Popular Varieties | Single Tuberose (Rajnigandha), Double Tuberose (Pearl), Variegated, Pink Tuberose |
| Fragrance Profile | Top: Green, citrus → Heart: Floral, creamy → Base: Musk, vanilla |
| Uses in Perfumery | Main ingredient in luxury perfumes (e.g., Dior, Chanel, Gucci) |
| Uses in Culture | Garlands, weddings, temple offerings, and festivals |
| Uses in Aromatherapy | Reduces stress, anxiety, and improves relaxation |
| Uses in Home Décor | Candles, room fresheners, and floral decorations |
| Skincare Applications | Hydrating creams and rejuvenating serums |
| Harvesting Tip | Pick flowers in the evening when scent peaks |
| Bulb Storage | Dry bulbs in shade and store in a cool, dry place |
| Interesting Fact #1 | It takes thousands of blossoms to make 1 oz of tuberose oil |
| Interesting Fact #2 | In folklore, it was believed to stir passion if smelled after dark |
| Container Growth | Yes, grows well in pots with proper drainage |
| Average Lifespan of Bulb | 3–4 years (with good care) |
| Also Known As | Night Queen, Mistress of the Night |
Tuberose Varieties—Diversity in Elegance
There are several varieties of tuberose, each with its unique charm:
Variety Name Bloom Type Fragrance Intensity Common Use Single Tuberose (Rajnigandha) Single row of petals Very strong perfume extraction, garlands Double Tuberose (Pearl Tuberose) Multiple rows of petals Mild ornamental purposes Variegated Tuberose Green and white leaves Moderate decorative gardening Pink Tuberose Light pink blooms Subtle bouquets and decor
Among these, Single Tuberose is the most prized for perfume production, as it yields the richest essential oil.
How to Grow Tuberose – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choosing the Right Climate and Soil
Tuberose thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-drained loamy or sandy soil. —Step-by-StepThe best soil acidity should fall between 6.5 and 7.5 pH. Make sure the soil drains well, since standing water can cause the bulbs to decay.
2. Planting Tuberose Bulbs
- Time: Plant bulbs in spring or early summer when the temperature is around 25°C (77°F).
- Depth: Place bulbs about 2–3 inches deep in the soil.
- Spacing: Maintain 8–10 inches between bulbs to allow proper air circulation.
3. Watering and fertilization.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can damage the bulbs. Apply a balanced fertilizer (10:10:10 NPK) every 3–4 weeks for vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
4. Light and temperature.
Tuberose needs full sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. Ideal growing temperatures range between 20 and 30°C (68–86°F).
5. Flowering and Maintenance
The plant begins to bloom three to four months after planting. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and prevent fungal infections. After flowering, allow the leaves to yellow naturally before cutting them back to help the bulbs store energy for the next season.
Harvesting and Storing Tuberose Bulbs
When the flowering season ends, dig up the bulbs carefully, clean off the soil, and let them dry in a shaded, airy place. Store in a cool, dry area until replanting. Bulbs can be reused for up to 3–4 years, though new offsets may be separated for propagation.
Uses and Benefits of Tuberose flowers
1. In Perfumery
Tuberose is a legendary note in high-end perfumes. Its essential oil, called “Tuberose Absolute,” is extracted through solvent extraction and used in luxury fragrances by brands like Dior, Chanel, and Gucci. The oil exudes warm, creamy, and seductive tones that linger for hours.
2. In Aromatherapy
The flowers aroma is said to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Tuberose oil is often blended with sandalwood or jasmine oil for relaxation and meditation.
3. In Religious and Cultural Events
In India and Southeast Asia, tuberose is a staple in temple offerings, wedding garlands, and festive decorations, representing purity and devotion.
4. In Candles and Home fragrances
Because of their rich and soothing aroma, tuberose-scented candles are popular for creating a romantic and serene ambiance. These candles are often marketed as “Candle flower,” symbolizing light, beauty, and fragrance.
5. In Skincare and Cosmetics
The antioxidant-rich tuberose extract is used in creams, lotions, and serums for its hydrating and rejuvenating properties.
The Fragrance Profile of Tuberose—A Symphony of Sensuality
The olfactory profile of tuberose is complex and multilayered. The top notes burst with fresh green and citrus nuances, the heart reveals floral richness, and the base settles into creamy, musky undertones. It is this depth that makes tuberose a favorite in both classic and modern perfumery.
Fragrance Notes Description Top Notes: Green, citrus, spicy Heart Notes: Creamy, floral, jasmine-like Base Notes: Musk, vanilla, warm honey
Interesting Facts About Tuberose
- Tuberose blooms at night, releasing its strongest scent after sunset.
- The name “tuberose” comes from the Latin word “tuber,” meaning swelling, referring to its bulbous roots.
- It takes thousands of blossoms to produce just one ounce of tuberose absolute.
- The flower has inspired perfume classics such as Fracas by Robert Piguet and Carnal Flower by Frederic Malle.
- In folklore, young women were warned not to inhale tuberose scent after dark—it was believed to arouse passion and desire.
FAQs About the Tuberose Flower
1. What is the tuberose flower known for?
The tuberose flower is well-known for its strong, sweet fragrance and elegant white blooms that open at night. Moreover, its aroma intensifies after sunset, making it a favorite in night gardens.
2. Why is the tuberose called the “candle flower”?
It’s called the “Candle Flower” because of its long, white, candle-like shape and glowing appearance in the moonlight. Additionally, the flower’s tall spikes resemble candles lit in the dark, creating a soft, romantic glow.
3. How do you grow tuberose flowers at home?
To grow tuberose flowers successfully, plant healthy bulbs in sunny, well-drained soil. Furthermore, water regularly and ensure the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best results.
4. When do tuberose flowers bloom?
Typically, the tuberose flower blooms in the summer and early autumn, about three to four months after planting. Therefore, timing your planting early in spring ensures full blossoms by midsummer.
5. Can Tuberose grow in pots or containers?
Yes, tuberose grows beautifully in containers. However, make sure the pot provides good drainage and receives full sunlight. In addition, use rich, loose soil to support healthy bulb development.
6. What are the main uses of tuberose flowers?
The tuberose flower has many uses. For instance, it’s widely used in perfumes, wedding garlands, aromatherapy, candles, and home décor for its lasting scent. Consequently, it remains one of the most cherished flowers for luxury and tradition alike.
7. What does the tuberose flower symbolize?
The tuberose flower symbolizes purity, passion, and eternal love. Moreover, its white petals and enchanting fragrance make it ideal for romantic and spiritual ceremonies across cultures.
8. How do you care for tuberose bulbs after flowering?
After flowering, simply let the leaves dry naturally. Then, dig up and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place for next season’s planting. This way, your bulbs remain healthy and ready to bloom again.
9. Is tuberose used in perfumes?
Yes, the tuberose flower is a key ingredient in many luxury perfumes because of its deep, creamy, and exotic floral aroma. Indeed, it adds depth and warmth to countless high-end fragrances.
10. Where does the tuberose flower originate from?
The tuberose flower originated in Mexico. Over time, it spread to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, where it continues to be cultivated for its beauty and scent. Today, it stands as a symbol of timeless elegance across continents.