Q. 52 Which of the following plants produces Ylang-ylang oil?
(A) Cananga odorata
(B) Carcum copticum
(C) Pandanus odoratissimus
(D) Pimenta racemosa
The correct answer is (A) Cananga odorata, a tropical tree renowned for its highly fragrant flowers used in perfume production.
Ylang-Ylang Oil Source
Cananga odorata, commonly known as ylang-ylang, yields this essential oil through steam distillation of its drooping yellow-green flowers. The oil features a rich, floral scent with notes of jasmine and neroli, making it a staple in high-end perfumes like Chanel No. 5. Global production centers in the Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte highlight its economic importance, with Comoros exporting significant volumes annually.
Option Analysis
Understanding each option clarifies why only one fits:
| Option | Plant Name | Primary Oil/Product | Relevance to Ylang-Ylang |
|---|---|---|---|
| (A) | Cananga odorata | Ylang-Ylang oil (from flowers) | Correct: Direct source via distillation; “flower of flowers” in Tagalog. |
| (B) | Carum copticum (Ajowan) | Thymol-rich ajwain oil (from seeds) | Incorrect: Herb in Apiaceae family used for carminative digestive oil, not floral Ylang-Ylang. |
| (C) | Pandanus odoratissimus (Kewra) | Kewra oil/att ar (from male flowers) | Incorrect: Screwpine yields sweet, grassy perfume oil for Indian attars, distinct from Ylang-Ylang. |
| (D) | Pimenta racemosa (West Indian Bay) | Bay rum oil (from leaves) | Incorrect: Myrtaceae tree provides spicy, clove-like oil for aftershaves, unrelated to Ylang-Ylang fragrance. |
Production Insights
Ylang-Ylang oil extraction requires about 50-200 kg of flowers per kg of oil, fractionated into grades like Extra, I, II, and III for varied uses from luxury perfumes to soaps. This process underscores Cananga odorata’s unique role in aromatherapy and perfumery, setting it apart from the seed, leaf, or alternative floral oils of other options.
