Ylang-ylang

The Comoros are one of the world’s largest producers of ylang-ylang oil – its flowers are why they are called the “Perfume Islands”.

Ylang-ylang is a fast-growing tree that reaches 10–20 m in the wild, but on plantations it is pruned and bent down to a height of 2–3 m to make picking the flowers easier. It has long, drooping branches and glossy leaves. The greenish-yellow flowers, with long, narrow, twisted petals, give off an intense, sweet scent. They are picked by hand early in the morning, when the scent is strongest, and then steam-distilled. Ylang-ylang oil is an important ingredient in perfumes, including famous floral compositions.

Significance in the country

For decades ylang-ylang oil has been one of the Comoros’ main exports, and harvesting and distilling the flowers provides work for thousands of families, especially on Anjouan. However, firing the distilleries with wood contributes to deforestation of the islands.

Where it grows

On all three islands – most plantations and distilleries are on Anjouan, with others on Mohéli and Grande Comore.

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