Ylang-Ylang
cananga odorata
Also known as: ["Cananga tree","Cananga flower","Ilang-ilang"]
Overview
A tropical tree prized for its highly fragrant flowers used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Magnoliales |
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Genus: | Cananga |
| Botanical Name: | Cananga odorata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, humid area or sheltered outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter like compost or peat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to stronger light, protect from direct midday sun, place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, rich, organic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good water retention but fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid drafts, maintain stable temperatures, protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust for plant size.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or bud, remove crossing branches, thin out dense areas.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased parts, and manage size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe essential oil of Cananga odorata can be slightly toxic to cats if ingested, potentially causing mild gastrointestinal upset due to its aromatic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe essential oil of Cananga odorata can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested, potentially causing mild gastrointestinal upset due to its aromatic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicCananga odorata, commonly known as ylang-ylang, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of its essential oil in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its aromatic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ylang-Ylang toxic to pets?
A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the uses of Ylang-Ylang?
A: Primarily used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine.
Q: How do I care for a Ylang-Ylang plant?
A: Requires warm, humid conditions, bright light, and regular watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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