It does have a peculiar smell. I recall the honey having a very strong flavor and the smell of the flowers being quite distinctive. I wouldn't characterize it as unpleasant, but it can be quite strong, especially in the early evening. The flowers are small and use the scent to attract pollinators which are typically small insects rather than bees. My recollection of the smell of manuka oil vs. tea tree oil is that I thought tea tree oil had a more unpleasant smell. It has been a while since I have used manuka oil, so I my memory may be a little off.Apteryx
I have the manuka oil it has a peculiar smell. Do the flowers smell like that too? Tea tree would be a substitute . It takes a lot less manuka and it is more potent than tea tree. I like it the smell can be an acquired taste. The good thing is the smell dissipates after you put it on Pam