Ylang ylang

An iconic Madagascan industry

The island of Nosy Be, located northwest of Madagascar in the Mozambique Channel, is one of the main ylang ylang production basins in the world. This flower, with characteristic floral notes, is harvested and then distilled locally to produce an essential oil widely used in the perfumery, cosmetics and aromatic ingredients industries.

Between Nosy Bé and the neighbouring region of Ambanja, several hundred producers and distillers contribute to this historic industry, which is an integral part of the local economy.

A year-round harvest

The production of ylang ylang flowers continues throughout the year with more intense periods depending on the seasons. The flowers are harvested when they reach full maturity, recognisable by their yellow colour and full opening.

This step is essential to guarantee the aromatic quality of the essential oil extracted after distillation.

A long and meticulous distillation

Ylang ylang essential oil is extracted by distillation at atmospheric pressure, in a process that can last up to 24 hours.

During this process, different fractions are harvested in succession. These include Ylang Extra, Ylang First, Ylang Second and Ylang Third. Each has a specific aromatic profile and is suited to different uses depending on the industry.

Ylang ylang III – Organic

  • Cananga odorata
  • Distilled part: Flowers
  • Origin: Madagascar
  • Harvest period: All year round / ++: March–May / Dec–Jan
  • Quality: 100% pure & natural

Ylang ylang II – Organic

  • Cananga odorata
  • Distilled part: Flowers
  • Origin: Madagascar
  • Harvest period: All year round / ++: March–May / Dec–Jan
  • Quality: 100% pure & natural

Ylang ylang extra – Organic

  • Cananga odorata
  • Distilled part: Flowers
  • Origin: Madagascar / Comoros
  • Harvest period: All year round / ++: March–May / Dec–Jan
  • Quality: 100% pure & natural

Ylang ylang complete – Organic

  • Cananga odorata
  • Distilled part: Flowers
  • Origin: Madagascar
  • Harvest period: All year round / ++: March–May / Dec–Jan
  • Quality: 100% pure & natural

Ylang Ylang – Organic

  • Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson
  • Distilled part: Dried flowers
  • Distillation: France
  • Origin of flowers: Madagascar
  • FR-BIO-01 certified

Ylang ylang – COSMOS – 22.455% organic

  • Cananaga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson
  • Distilled part: Dried flowers
  • Distillation: France
  • Plant origin: Madagascar
  • Preservatives: Potassium Sorbate and Citric Acid
  • Certified 22.455% organic by Ecocert Greenlife according to the Cosmos standard

A major environmental challenge

The production of ylang ylang essential oil has historically been heavily reliant on wood fuel. This reality has contributed to the pressure on the island's forest resources over the decades. Today, industry actors are working on various initiatives aimed at reducing this impact. Reforestation programmes, wood energy plantations and technical innovations are gradually reducing the consumption of natural resources needed for distillation. Some distilleries have developed much more efficient equipment, capable of greatly reducing the need for firewood while maintaining the quality of the essential oil produced.

Discovering Madagascar

Ylang ylang is one of the many raw materials we trace in Madagascar. Discover the producers, cooperatives and supply chains that shape this island's rich aromatic diversity.

Read about our trip to Madagascar