Orris Root Powder

Orris root powder is used mainly to preserve the scent of holiday pomander balls.

The orris root is from a species of iris grown in Dalmatia. It has a scent similar to violets; while a popular flavor in the 1800's, today it's used to scent and preserve pomander balls, spice wreaths, or sachets.

A Pomander ball is a citrus fruit or small apple into which cloves are inserted in even rows. After covering the fruit with cloves, roll it in a mixture of equal parts cinnamon and orris root powder. This adds greatly to the fragrance and, due to the preservative nature of the orris root, the ball will hold its marvelous scent quite a bit longer.

Recipes with this Spice