Tuberose
Agave amica · Edible flower
Top 10 pairings
Tuberose is the intensely fragrant, waxy-white flower of Agave amica, a night-blooming perennial in the agave subfamily (Asparagaceae). Long a mainstay of perfumery and ceremonial garlands, its heady, almost creamy floral scent is used sparingly in kitchens to perfume syrups, creams, teas and confections across Southeast Asia, India and the modernist floral pantry.
Picking a good onedrag
Food-grade spike, first florets openBrowned florets, sour vase water
Shop freshEveryday bestPull the open florets off the spike and steep in warm syrup, cream, milk or tea, then strain. A few scent a whole pot; more turns soapy.
The floretsA mark or two, half the spike open
The spikeUpright and green, cut end drying pale
In the handFirm, the open florets relaxing, still dry
Smell at the spikeDeep creamy floral, heavy in a warm room