"The Unexpected Muse: How Kudzu Inspired Tenacious Bloom"

When we set out to create our newest fragrance, we never imagined finding inspiration in a plant often considered a nuisance. Yet, here we are, proudly introducing Tenacious Bloom, a scent that owes its existence to the humble kudzu vine.

Our journey with kudzu began unexpectedly during a trip through the American South. Amidst the lush greenery, we encountered vast swathes of kudzu, draping over trees and structures alike. Initially viewed as an invasive species, this plant revealed its hidden charm upon closer inspection.

Kudzu, known in Japan as kuzu (葛), has a fascinating history that spans continents and centuries. In Japan, its story stretches back over a millennium. The plant's first recorded use dates to the Nara period (710-784 AD), mentioned in the Manyōshū, Japan's oldest extant collection of waka poetry. This early documentation highlights kudzu's longstanding significance in Japanese culture.

During the Heian period (794-1185 AD), kudzu gained prominence in traditional medicine. The Ishinpō, Japan's oldest surviving medical text compiled in 984 AD, mentions kudzu root as a remedy for various ailments. By the Edo period (1603-1867), kudzu had become integral to Japanese craftsmanship, with artisans creating kuzu-fu, a delicate cloth prized for summer garments worn by nobility.

In Japanese cuisine, kudzu starch (kuzu-ko) has been used for centuries as a thickening agent and is a key ingredient in traditional confections and beverages. The plant's cultural significance is also reflected in Japanese literature and art, often symbolizing life's persistence and the passage of time.

Kudzu's journey to the West began in 1876 at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. Introduced from Japan, it quickly adapted to its new environment, showcasing remarkable resilience. This ability to thrive against all odds sparked our imagination.

The complex aroma of Tenacious Bloom reflects kudzu's multifaceted nature:

• Top notes of wild strawberry and red grape capture its vibrant, spreading nature.
• Heart notes of geranium and white rose represent the delicate beauty often overlooked.
• A base of warm musk grounds the scent, reminiscent of kudzu's earthy presence.

Beyond its captivating scent, kudzu carries rich symbolism. In various cultures, it represents determination, fertility, and growth. Some even attribute spiritual properties to it, believing it can promote grounding and protection.

As you light your Tenacious Bloom candle, let it remind you of your own strength and adaptability. Like kudzu, we all have the power to put down roots, overcome obstacles, and flourish in unexpected places.

In creating Tenacious Bloom, we've learned that beauty and inspiration can be found in the most surprising places. We invite you to experience this unique fragrance and discover the unexpected harmony it brings to your space, while also appreciating the rich cultural history it represents.