PlantFiles: Ylang Ylang
Cananga odorata

This is a medium-sized tropical tree. It can be grown in tubs in cooler climates, but must be kept warm. As the tree ages, the trunk has a crooked, contorted shape.

This tall (60') tropical tree hails from the East Indies, although it is grown in many tropical countries all over the world. It is the source of ylang-ylang extract, which is a very penetrating smell. Used in soap, perfumery, aromatherapy. The 6-petalled flowers are difficult to see since they are a pale lime-green and tend to get overlooked. The green fruit is the shape of an acorn and, once ripe and purple, the seeds can be extracted. They look similar to passion-fruit seeds. The tree shape is interesting, the branches droop down and then swoop up at the ends.

Some fruits were acquired in September and put into seed trays and to date (December) three have sprouted and the trees are about 3" high. Warm conditions and high humidity help, so I keep them in my bathroom.