How to Grow Ylang-Ylang
Cananga odorata
Ylang-ylang demands full sun, warmth, and well-drained fertile soil. It is strictly tender — protect from any frost. In the tropics it grows fast (up to 5m in 3 years) and flowers nearly year-round; in cooler climates grow in a large container and overwinter above 15°C. Water regularly during dry periods but avoid waterlogging. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring and early summer. Light pruning after flowering keeps the canopy manageable and encourages new blooms. The drooping star-shaped flowers are intensely fragrant — site thoughtfully near seating or paths.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring and again in early summer. Avoid feeding in autumn or winter.
Watch For
- Scale insects
- Mealybugs
- Aphids
- Root rot in waterlogged soil
Companions
Frangipani, Hibiscus, Heliconia, Bird of Paradise
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Requires at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Poor light reduces flowering significantly. Choose the sunniest spot available.
Watering
Regular moisture; avoid waterlogging
Water consistently during dry spells, especially in the first 2–3 years. Established trees are moderately drought-tolerant. Never allow roots to sit in standing water.
Fertilizing
Balanced feed in spring and early summer
Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring. A second application in early summer supports continued flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Light shaping after flowering
Prune lightly after the main flowering flush to control height and encourage new blooms. Fast growth means pruning is needed annually in warm climates to keep the tree manageable.
Spacing
8–10 m from other large trees
Matures to 12 m or more in tropical conditions. Allow ample space for the spreading canopy. In containers, root restriction naturally limits size.
Support
Stake young trees in exposed sites
Fast-growing young trees benefit from staking for the first 2–3 years, particularly in windy positions. Remove stakes once the trunk is firmly established.
Growing Tips
Site in full sun
Ylang-ylang needs maximum sunlight to flower prolifically. Even partial shade significantly reduces bloom production. Choose the warmest, sunniest corner of the garden.
Protect from cold
Any frost will damage or kill this tropical tree. In temperate climates, keep in a large container so it can be moved under cover before temperatures drop below 10°C.
Water during dry spells
Young trees need consistent moisture. Water deeply during dry periods but allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
