Contents
Description
Cananga is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs that belong to the Annonaceae family. They are native to tropical Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Cananga odorata, also known as Ylang-ylang, is the most popular species in this genus. The plant is known for its fragrant flowers that are used in the perfume industry.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Angiosperms | Magnoliids | Magnoliales | Annonaceae | Cananga |
Appearance
Cananga plants can grow up to 10 meters tall. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and smooth. The flowers are star-shaped and have six petals. They are usually yellow-green or green in color but can turn to shades of pink, orange, and yellow as they mature. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom all year round.
Care Guide
Water
Cananga plants prefer moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week and make sure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Fertilize Cananga plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause leaf burn.
Soil
Cananga plants thrive in well-draining, fertile soil. Avoid using heavy or compacted soil.
Sunlight
Cananga plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight, but too much can cause leaf burn.
Hardiness Zones
Cananga plants prefer warm climates and are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cananga plants are susceptible to spider mites, scales, and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Cananga plants are also prone to root rot if the soil is too moist.
Habitat
Cananga plants are native to tropical Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. They can be found in rainforests and tropical gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cananga plant?
A: Cananga plants prefer moist soil, so water deeply once a week and make sure the soil is well-drained.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Cananga plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer and apply once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause leaf burn.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Cananga plants?
A: Cananga plants are susceptible to spider mites, scales, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cananga plants?
A: Cananga plants prefer warm climates and are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Related Plants
– Annona cherimola- Annona muricata- Artabotrys hexapetalus- Mitrephora glabra- Uvaria grandiflora
References
– “Cananga odorata,” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291572- “Cananga odorata,” PlantZAfrica, http://pza.sanbi.org/cananga-odorata- “Ylang-ylang,” Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/plant/ylang-ylang
