Vanilla
( vuh - NILL - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus is commonly referred to as Vanilla Orchids, and are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Species are typically vining, and produce beautiful Orchid-like flowers followed by seed pods that are harvested for their contents and used to flavor many culinary creations.
|
Vanilla Species and Varietals
The genus Vanilla is a member of the plant family Orchidaceae, and includes 110 species. The genus name is derived from the diminutive of the Spanish word vaina (meaning 'sheath' or 'pod'). The growing zones for these plants vary depending on the species; for more information, consult the information below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Vanilla aphylla This species of Vanilla Orchid is native to Southeast Asia (Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore). It is a vining, herbaceous plant that produces beautiful Orchid-style flowers that are light yellow to cream in color with reddish markings toward their interior. This plant uses its fleshy roots to support itself as it grows before finding a structure or other plant to climb. |
Vanilla phalaenopsis (Vanille Sauvage) These plants are endemic to the Seychelles Islands in the Indian Ocean. Plants produce flowers that are white with apricot-colored throats. Vanilla beans produced by this species of Vanilla Orchid reach up to 6.5 inches in length. All of the flowers on a stem bloom simultaneously, and pods that follow are ready for harvest at the same time, as well. |
Vanilla planifolia (Flat-Leaved Vanilla, West Indian Vanilla, Vanilla, Tahitian Vanilla) This species was first scientifically recorded and given a name in 1808, and is now considered to be an endangered species due to overharvesting and habitat loss. It grows as an evergreen vining plant, sometimes as an epiphyte. It can reach between 50 and 100 feet long in its native habitat, and forms aerial roots for support on younger parts of the vine. Leaves are glossy and bright green, and flowers are greenish-yellow and slightly fragrant. Mature plants produce pods that are harvested after eight to nine months on the vine. Cultivars include 'Handa', and 'Mansa'. |
Vanilla pompona (Pompona Vanilla, Guadeloupe Vanilla, West Indian Vanilla) Native to Mexico and northern regions of South America, this species of Vanilla Orchid has a high vanillin content, and is one of the sources for commercial vanilla flavoring. It forms a vining plant with green foliage, and produces yellow flowers. |
Caring for Vanilla
Harvesting Vanilla Beans
Propagation
Problems and Pests
?? plants are typically pest and disease free. For more information on common garden problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
Gallery
The blooming season of this plant (February–March) is celebrated with the Mustard Festival, a series of festivities in the wine country of California (Napa and Sonoma Counties).[13]
|
Videos
All about Lipstick Trees.
|
How to care for a Lipstick Tree in the garden.
|
Resources
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!