The word 'ylang-ylang' comes from a Filipino phrase meaning 'flower of flowers'. Even though the flower originally came from South-East Asia, it grows so well in the volcanic soil and warm ocean climate of Comoros that the islands now supply most of the world's ylang-ylang oil. If you have ever smelled an expensive perfume, there is a good chance it contains Comorian ylang-ylang.
Farmers pick the flowers early in the morning, when the scent is strongest. The flowers are then put into large metal tanks with water. When the water is heated, steam rises through the flowers and captures their fragrance. This steam is cooled and turned back into liquid — and the precious oil floats to the top and is collected. This process is called steam distillation.
A single ylang-ylang tree can produce flowers for 40 or 50 years, which means farmers can pass the same trees down to their children and grandchildren. Ylang-ylang farming is a proud tradition in Comoros and provides work for many families. The scent of the flowers drifting across the hillsides is so strong that island visitors often smell the perfume before they even see the flowers.