Cananga odorata, also known as ylang-ylang, belongs to the Annonaceae family. It is an evergreen tropical tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. Ylang-ylang is native to Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in regions such as the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Madagascar, where the climatic conditions are favorable.
The leaves of ylang-ylang are long, oval, and shiny green, measuring between 10 and 20 cm in length. The flowers, characteristic of this species, are in clusters hanging down and can vary in color, ranging from pale yellow to pink. They emit an exotic and sweet floral fragrance, highly appreciated in perfumery.
Ylang-ylang essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of fresh flowers. It has a pale yellow to golden color and an intense, sweet, and slightly spicy floral aroma.
Due to its popularity and numerous uses, ylang-ylang is now extensively cultivated for essential oil production. Ylang-ylang flowers are typically hand-harvested early in the morning when their fragrance is most potent, and distillation must begin promptly after harvesting to preserve their quality.