Cananga

Cananga is a genus of flowering plants in the family Annonaceae. The most well-known species is Cananga odorata, commonly called ylang-ylang, which is native to tropical Asia and the western Pacific. The genus includes several tropical trees and shrubs, most of which are valued for their fragrant flowers.

Cananga odorata is an evergreen tree that can reach substantial height in tropical habitats. It has simple, glossy leaves and produces large, pendant inflorescences of greenish-yellow flowers. The flowers have numerous long, twisted petals and emit a strong, sweet floral fragrance that intensifies in the evening. The plant is cultivated both as an ornamental tree and for the production of essential oil.

Geographically, cananga species are distributed across tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. They grow best in warm, humid climates with well-drained soils. In cultivation, Cananga trees are often grown in agroforestry systems or plantations to supply flowers for oil production.

The most important product derived from Cananga odorata is ylang-ylang essential oil, obtained by steam distillation of fresh flower clusters. The oil is a key ingredient in perfumery, valued for its rich, sweet, floral, and slightly fruity aroma. Distillers often produce fractions (commonly labeled extra and fractions I–III) that differ in aroma profiles. The oil contains constituents such as linalool, geraniol, and various sesquiterpenes, which contribute to its characteristic scent and blending properties. Beyond perfumery, ylang-ylang oil is used in aromatherapy, though it should be handled with care and proper guidelines.