Ilang-ilang is the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) Plant of the Month (POM) for August 2020. The “ilang-ilang” or scientifically known as Cananga odorata (Lamk.) Hook.f. & Thoms belongs to family Annonaceae. It is native to India, Southeast Asia and Queensland, Australia.
It has evergreen leaves and greenish-yellow petals that resembles a sea star. It serves as a source of essential oil that is popular base for perfumes and aromatherapy.
TRIVIA: This plant relieves high blood pressure and is considered an aphrodisiac!
Come, visit and explore MBG soon and see it for yourself!
by: Angela A. Limpiada and Analyn C. Malayba