Cananga odorata YLANG-YLANG (10 seeds)

Ylang-Ylang, also known as Perfume Tree, is a non-hardy, very fast-growing shrub belonging to the Annonaceae family.
It is a beautiful small exotic evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, typically reaching between 2 and 3 meters in height.

The flowers of the "Chanel No. 5 tree" are yellow, consisting of five 10-cm long petals and a green center. Highly prized by perfumers worldwide, its scent is intoxicating and very powerful. Its name, Ylang-Ylang, means "flower of flowers."

Ylang-Ylang seeds come from Cananga odorata; they are smooth, flat, rounded, and light brown. They measure on average 5 to 7 millimeters in length. The leaflets are simple, leathery, glossy, elongated, ovoid, and green, measuring between 8 and 20 cm in length.

- Uses:

Ylang-ylang is world-famous for its essential oil extracted through the distillation of fresh flowers. This essence is a pillar of fine perfumery, used in the composition of legendary fragrances for its floral, powdery, and exotic notes. Beyond perfume, this oil is highly valued in aromatherapy for its relaxing and calming virtues, helping to reduce stress and anxiety through its action on the nervous system.
Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

In the field of cosmetics and body care, perfume tree is used for its balancing and regenerative properties. It is frequently included in massage oils, face creams, or hair care products to bring radiance to the skin and shine to the hair. It is also attributed with aphrodisiac and toning qualities, making it a preferred ingredient for wellness products and sensory care rituals.

Finally, ylang-ylang plays a significant role in local traditions and the economy of the tropical regions where it is grown, such as the Comoros or Madagascar. The flowers are sometimes used in ritual preparations or to decorate living spaces during celebrations. 

- Germination and Sowing:

• The most favorable time to sow perfume tree is from June until the end of July, when temperatures are sufficiently high.
• Soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water before sowing to break dormancy and accelerate germination.
• Prepare small pots with horticultural potting soil. Bury the seeds flat at a depth of 0.5 cm.
• Gently water the culture using a spray bottle.
• Place the pots in a greenhouse in a warm, humid spot with temperatures between 30 and 40°C.
• Germination generally begins 2 to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It grows in any soil type as long as it is humus-rich, slightly stony, and, above all, well-draining.

- Exposure / Light:

Full sun exposure is recommended to encourage abundant flowering.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Due to its tropical origin, it requires significant heat; temperatures should be between 25 and 35°C. The plant will virtually stop growing when temperatures drop below 15°C. Its hardiness is low—it will not survive winter frosts and must be brought indoors, into a heated greenhouse, or a conservatory. Its USDA zone is 9-11.

- Watering / Irrigation:

It is important to irrigate well every 2 days during the first 2 weeks after planting. For pot culture, watering once a week is usually sufficient. Never let water stagnate in the saucer, as this risks rotting the roots.

- Propagation:

The best way to reproduce it is by sowing seeds. It is also possible to take 15-cm semi-hardwood stem cuttings in late summer using the "smothering" (high humidity) method.