Overview:
Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson, commonly known as the cananga tree, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Annonaceae family. This tropical tree is native to Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in the Pacific Islands.
Appearance:
The cananga tree grows up to 20 meters tall and has a straight trunk with grayish-brown bark. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, measuring about 8-20 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. The tree produces fragrant, yellow-green flowers that are 2.5-3 cm in diameter and have six pointed petals and numerous yellow stamens.
Common Names:
The cananga tree is known by various names, including ylang-ylang, fragrant cananga, perfume tree, and macassar oil plant. The name "ylang-ylang" is derived from the Tagalog word "ilang-ilang," which means "wilderness" or "rare."
Uses:
The flowers of the cananga tree are highly valued for their strong, sweet fragrance and are used in the perfume industry to create exotic, floral scents. The essential oil extracted from the flowers, known as ylang-ylang oil, is also used in aromatherapy and in the production of soaps, lotions, and other cosmetic products. Moreover, the tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, headache, and stomach ache. The wood of the cananga tree is used to make furniture and construction material.
Light requirements
Cananga odorata thrives well in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow healthy and produce flowers. In low light intensity, the plant struggles to grow and has stunted growth, causing poor flower production.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows well within a temperature range of 12 to 33 degrees Celsius. However, it cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold conditions as it damages the foliage and affects the development of flowers. The optimal temperature range for Cananga odorata is between 20-30 degrees Celsius.
Soil requirements
Cananga odorata prefers well-drained soils that retain moisture. The plant grows well in different soil types, but it thrives in loamy and sandy soils. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant's overall growth rate and flowering capability may be affected if the soil is too compact or lacks moisture.
Cultivation
Cananga odorata, also known as Ylang-ylang, is a tropical tree that can be grown in warm climates. It thrives in well-drained soil, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Ideally, it should be planted in an area that receives partial to full sunlight.
Watering Needs
Providing adequate water to the Cananga odorata plant is crucial, especially in the initial years. The plant requires regular watering, particularly during the dry season, to maintain optimal growth. Nonetheless, overwatering should be avoided since it can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to maintain the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential in promoting healthy growth and development of the Ylang-ylang plant. A balanced fertilizer, with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients. However, it is advisable to avoid excessive use of fertilizers, as this can cause nut burn and weaken the plant's immunity.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the Cananga odorata plant is important to maintain an attractive and healthy shape. It is recommended to prune the plant when the blooming season has ended to prevent wilting. To maintain the plant's symmetry and avoid crowding, remove dead or overgrown branches during pruning. This also allows for better sunlight penetration and air circulation, which is essential for the plant's growth.
Propagation of Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson
Cananga odorata can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The following are common methods of propagation:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Cananga odorata. The seeds are collected from mature fruit and sown in well-drained soil. The germination time can vary from 1 to 3 months. It is important to ensure that the seedlings are provided with adequate shade and moisture.
Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10-15cm long and stripped of leaves except for the top 2-3 pairs. The cuttings can be treated with rooting hormones before planting in well-drained soil. It is important to maintain the moisture level around the cuttings until they have developed new roots.
Air layering
Air layering is a technique where new roots are induced on the lower portion of mature stems while still attached to the parent plant. This method is used to propagate older, established plants that are difficult to propagate through cuttings or seeds. A ring of bark is removed from the stem and covered with moist sphagnum moss, which is then wrapped with plastic and secured in place. New roots will form on the section covered in moss, and once the roots are established, the stem can be cut and planted in well-drained soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Cananga odorata
Cananga odorata, also known as ylang-ylang, is a tropical tree that is used for its essential oil in the perfume industry. However, like most plants, it can be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose - This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. To manage, remove infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot - Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, which causes wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove affected plant material and replant in fresh soil.
Sooty Mold - This fungal disease appears as a black, powdery coating on leaves and stems. It is caused by honeydew excreted by insects such as aphids or scales. To manage, control the insects with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Pests
Aphids - These small, soft-bodied insects feed on plant sap and can cause distortion of new growth. To manage, spray plants with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Scale Insects - These insects attach themselves to plant stems and suck sap, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Caterpillars - Caterpillars can chew holes in leaves and weaken the plant. To manage, remove them by hand or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) pesticide.
By being proactive in disease and pest management, Cananga odorata can thrive and provide its sweet-smelling essential oil for years to come.
