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: A Treasure of High Perfumery

Ylang-Ylang (Cananga odorata), nicknamed the "perfume tree," is world-renowned for its essential oil extracted by distilling fresh flowers. A true pillar of luxury perfumery, this essence brings floral, powdery, and exotic notes to iconic fragrances.
Beyond its enchanting trail, Ylang-Ylang is highly valued in aromatherapy for its relaxing properties. Its mellow scent helps promote relaxation and create an atmosphere of serenity, ideal for soothing tensions related to daily stress.

Cosmetic Benefits and Skin Balance

In the world of natural care, Ylang-Ylang is recognized for its balancing and regenerating virtues. Integrated into massage oils or face creams, this plant helps restore radiance to the complexion and regulate the skin's appearance. It is also a precious ally for hair beauty, providing shine and vitality to dull hair fibers.
However, the use of essential oils requires special attention: it is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional or an aromatherapist before any therapeutic application to rule out any risk of allergy or interaction.

Tropical Culture and Local Traditions

Native to tropical regions such as Madagascar or the Comoros archipelago, Ylang-Ylang plays a central role in the local economy and rituals. Its yellow flowers, picked at dawn to preserve their aromatic potency, often adorn living spaces during traditional celebrations.
This plant is not just a cosmetic ingredient; it is a symbol of ancestral expertise and a rich cultural heritage, linking the art of artisanal distillation to the global beauty industry.

- 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.