How to Grow Ylang-ylang
Ylang-ylang
Cananga odorata
treeYlang-ylang is a tropical flowering tree native to Southeast Asia, prized for its intensely fragrant yellow flowers that bloom year-round in warm climates. The flowers are used extensively in perfumery, traditional medicine, and aromatherapy. This fast-growing tree can reach 60+ feet in height in its native habitat but is often kept smaller in cultivation.
When should you plant Ylang-ylang in your zone?
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Example Ylang-ylang timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ylang-ylang
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ylang-ylang
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ylang-ylang dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-12; requires consistently warm tropical or subtropical conditions
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Get my Ylang-ylang timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-6 weeksTiny plants with 2-4 small leaves emerging from soil, very delicate
Keep in high humidity under bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; protect from cold and direct sun
Juvenile Growth
1-2 yearsRapidly growing tree establishing main trunk and primary branches, leaves are lance-shaped and glossy green
Provide support stakes if needed; maintain consistent warmth above 60°F; feed monthly with balanced fertilizer; pinch tips to encourage bushiness
Pre-Flowering
6-12 monthsTree reaches mature size with full canopy; flower buds begin forming on branch tips
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering; maintain high humidity; ensure 6+ hours direct sun daily; water deeply but allow surface to dry slightly between waterings
Flowering & Fruiting
Continuous in zone 11+; seasonal elsewhereAbundant fragrant yellow flowers appear continuously in tropical climates; flowers develop into small brownish fruits containing seeds
Maintain consistent warmth and humidity; feed with bloom-boosting fertilizer (higher phosphorus); deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; hand-pollinate if needed in low-humidity areas
Maintenance
OngoingEstablished tree in full production, reaching desired size and shape
Prune to maintain shape and size; thin dense growth for air circulation; feed every 4-6 weeks during warm months; monitor for pests and diseases
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe; ensure adequate air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Hand-remove or scrape off; apply horticultural oil spray; treat with neem oil; monitor regularly
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Remove affected leaves; avoid overhead watering; improve air circulation; apply fungicide if widespread
Uses
Flavor enhancement
CulinaryYlang-ylang flowers add exotic floral notes to desserts, beverages, and specialty dishes in Southeast Asian and fusion cuisines. The flowers are candied or used as garnish in high-end culinary applications. [source]
Traditional healing
MedicinalUsed in traditional Southeast Asian medicine to address anxiety, stress, insomnia, and skin conditions. Flower infusions and extracts have been studied for potential cardiovascular and mood-regulating properties. [source]
Perfumery & aromatherapy
HouseholdYlang-ylang essential oil and absolutes are among the most prized ingredients in luxury perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. The oil is distilled from fresh or dried flowers and used in fragrance blending. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftFragrant dried flowers are used in potpourri, sachets, floral crafts, and herbal arrangements. Dried flowers retain some fragrance for months when stored properly. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeAbundant year-round flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in tropical gardens. The nectar-rich blooms provide important food sources in native ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest flowers early in the morning just after they fully open, when fragrance is most potent. Pick flowers individually by gently bending the stem. Fresh flowers can be used immediately or dried on screens in shade. In commercial production, flowering begins in 3-4 years and peaks at 6-8 years old. Flowers bloom year-round in consistent tropical heat but may be seasonal in cooler climates.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ylang-ylang means 'flower of flowers' in Tagalog and the tree is the national flower of Indonesia (Vanuatu's national flower). Its fragrance intensifies during hot, humid afternoons.
- 🌱 The essential oil can take 15-20 hours of steam distillation to extract from thousands of flowers, making it one of the most labor-intensive aromatic oils in the world.
- 🌱 In the Philippines, ylang-ylang flowers are traditionally used in hair oils and skin preparations, and a festival celebrates the flower's cultural significance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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