The 21-metre high Christmas tree on Dam square in central Amsterdam is to be processed into perfume.

Natural perfume company Ruik has been given permission by the council to pick up the tree on January 10, when it will be processed into a scent named Den (from the Dutch fir tree).

The perfume will be a ‘very fresh, green smell, not a typical Christmas tree scent,’ said Boye Dorenbos, half of the brother and sister team who set up Ruik several years ago.

The company, which makes 100% vegetable-based perfumes from waste materials, has previously processed orange peel into a perfume named Verschil (Eau d’Orange).