Chinese Perfume Plant
Aglaia odorata
Odorata
About this plant
Aglaia odorata, commonly known as the Chinese Perfume Plant, is a small shrub or tree admired for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom mainly in late summer and autumn. It has glossy green leaves and a pleasant scent often used in perfumes and traditional medicine. This plant is popular in gardens and as an ornamental houseplant in warm climates.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Aglaia
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Sapindales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, Vietnam, Thailand
- Distribution
- Native to Southeast Asia, including China, Vietnam, and Thailand; cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, Southeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging by ensuring good drainage. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows down.
Aglaia odorata is a hardy plant that grows well with minimal care. It prefers partial shade and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root problems, so water moderately and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a good choice for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- late_summer to autumn
Fragrant yellow flowers, glossy green foliage, compact shrub form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Low
Aglaia odorata may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen and sap. People who are prone to plant allergies should handle it with care and avoid direct contact with the sap to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Insufficient light may cause poor growth and fewer flowers. Occasionally, pests like aphids may appear but are usually easy to control.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. Sometimes used in traditional medicine and perfumery.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot young plants every 2-3 years to refresh soil and allow room for roots. Sensitive to cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F).