Smell London
Do you ever stop in the street because of a smell?
Do you ever stop in the street because of a smell? It could be the scent of flowers or the aroma of cooking. Smell, whether good or bad, adds to the experience of walking anywhere.
This July I’ve been stopped in my tracks by the powerful scent of lime flowers. On warm days these modest green flowers on lime trees exude a wonderful sweet perfume that hangs in the air deliciously.
It’s made me wonder what other smells I’ve been appreciating since the spring. Visually of course the cherry blossoms in March and April were stunning, but their perfume was not so noticeable.
Since March I’ve been so grateful for the trees as they have gradually put on their summer wear and I’ve noticed the scents I pass in gardens on my way to Battersea Park: the knockout pungency of privet flowers, sweet mock orange and the odd lilac and rose that reward a momentary inhalation as I go past. It feels polite to pause and give recognition to the plants that have produced these amazing blooms. And appreciate them today because tomorrow they might have faded.
What are your favourite plant smells? What have you noticed as you walk round Nine Elms? Pay attention with your nose during August – it may take you on an unexpected journey.